Heat Transfer Fluids (HTFs), often called thermal fluids, play a quiet but powerful role in how industrial systems and energy plants work. These fluids are designed to carry and store heat, moving it from the energy source—such as a solar thermal system—to where it is needed most.
At Fubex Lubricants, we offer high-quality heat transfer fluids for all types of engines. Enjoy fast shipping, a price match guarantee, and no-questions-asked returns. Need help choosing the right oil? Call us at +971 50 544 9614 — our friendly team is ready to assist!
Awais I., Sales Director, says: “At Fubex Lubricants, our heat transfer fluids do more than move heat—they protect equipment, improve efficiency, and keep industrial systems running smoothly, even under the toughest conditions.”
Available in liquid or gas form, HTFs are chosen based on temperature needs, stability, and efficiency, helping systems run smoother, use energy wisely, and support lower environmental impact.
What Are Heat Transfer Fluids?
Heat Transfer Fluids (HTFs) are special liquids that help move and control heat. Their main job is to carry heat from hot parts to cooler areas so machines can work safely.
When an engine is running, it creates a lot of heat. If this heat is not controlled, the engine can get damaged. Heat transfer fluids help by carrying heat away from important engine parts, like the engine block. This keeps the engine from overheating and helps it run smoothly.
How well an HTF works depends on how easily it can absorb and move heat. Common examples of heat transfer fluids include water, oil, and ethylene glycol.
Where Are Heat Transfer Fluids Used?
One of the most common places we see heat transfer fluids is in automobiles. Cars need different fluids to keep all systems working properly, improve performance, and reduce harmful emissions.
Each fluid in a car has a specific role and must be kept clean and at the correct level. This helps:
- Extend the vehicle’s life
- Improve driver safety
- Keep exhaust emissions low
In automobiles, heat transfer fluids include:
- Motor oil
- Engine coolant
- Transmission fluid
- Brake fluid
- Differential fluid
All of these fluids help control heat and protect parts that operate under high temperatures in everyday driving.
Beyond automobiles, heat transfer fluids (HTFs) are used in many different industries. They help move heat safely and smoothly in systems that need temperature control. From collecting heat in solar energy systems to carrying heat in HVAC systems, HTFs play an important role in everyday industrial operations.
The use of heat transfer fluids is growing because modern industries need better heat control, higher efficiency, and safer operations. HTFs help improve the performance of advanced solar systems, support the rising demand for heating and cooling systems, and assist energy production in oil- and gas-rich regions. At Fubex Lubricants, we understand how important the right heat transfer fluid is for reliable performance across industries.
Major Uses of Heat Transfer Fluids
- Oil and Gas Industry: HTFs are very important in oil and gas operations. They are used during production, refining, recycling, and transportation. In offshore gas extraction, hydrocarbon-based HTFs help remove water from natural gas, making the process safer and more efficient.
- Chemical Industry: In chemical plants, HTFs carry heat through equipment like pipes and columns to help separate different chemicals. High-temperature HTFs are used because they stay stable and do not react easily with other chemicals.
- Plastics Manufacturing: Silicone-based HTFs are used to make synthetic fibers such as polyester, nylon, and PET. These fluids help keep temperatures steady during production.
- Pharmaceutical Industry: In medicine manufacturing, HTFs help control temperature and keep products stable. Propylene glycol-based fluids are commonly used for safe and precise heat control.
- HVAC Systems: Heating and cooling systems use HTFs to move heat efficiently. Water and glycol mixtures are common, while silicone-based HTFs are used when higher temperatures are required.
- Food and Beverage Industry: Food-grade HTFs are used to safely transfer heat during food processing and packaging. These fluids meet safety standards and help maintain food quality.
- Solar Energy Systems: Solar thermal systems use special HTFs to collect and store heat from the sun. These fluids help convert solar energy into usable power.
Key Characteristics of Heat Transfer Fluids
A good heat transfer fluid must be able to move heat quickly and safely. It should work well even at high temperatures and flow easily through pipes and systems. This helps the fluid carry heat without putting extra stress on the equipment.
Heat transfer fluids also need to be chemically stable, meaning they do not break down or change easily, even in tough working conditions. This allows them to keep their heat-moving ability for a long time and helps the entire system run smoothly and efficiently.
Why Heat Transfer Fluids Are Important
Heat transfer fluids play a very important role in energy systems, especially in solar and other renewable energy setups. These fluids can store large amounts of heat and move it where it is needed with very little heat loss.
This is especially helpful for energy sources like solar and wind, which do not produce power all the time. By using reliable heat transfer fluids, energy systems can work more efficiently and deliver steady performance. At Fubex Lubricants, we focus on solutions that help improve heat control and long-term system reliability.
Main Types of Heat Transfer Fluids
Heat Transfer Fluids (HTFs) come in different types. Each type is used for a specific job, depending on temperature needs, how well it carries heat, and where it is used. In simple terms, HTFs can be grouped into liquids, gases, and high-temperature materials.
Liquid HTFs: Thermal Oils and Liquid Solutions
Liquid HTFs, especially thermal oils, are the most commonly used heat transfer fluids. They are widely used in solar power systems and many industrial processes. These fluids are good at carrying heat and can work at high temperatures without breaking down quickly.
Thermal oils are also used in heat storage systems and in industries that need a steady and reliable heat supply for long periods.
Gaseous HTFs: Air and Inert Gases
Gaseous HTFs include air and other non-reactive gases. These are used in systems that work at lower temperatures or where the fluid must not react with equipment parts.
These gases are easy to find and low in cost. However, they do not store heat as well as liquid HTFs, which means they are less efficient for high heat storage.
High-Temperature HTFs: Molten Salts and Similar Materials
For very high-temperature applications, molten salts are used as heat transfer fluids. They can handle extremely high heat while staying stable.
Molten salts are excellent at storing and releasing heat, which makes them a good choice for solar power plants and other energy systems that need to keep working even when sunlight is not available.
Comparing Different Types of HTFs
Choosing the right HTF depends on several things, such as working temperature, heat transfer efficiency, cost, and environmental impact. Liquid HTFs and molten salts are better for high-temperature and energy storage systems. Gaseous HTFs are easier to use and more affordable, but they do not transfer or store heat as efficiently.
At Fubex Lubricants, the focus is on understanding these differences to help select the right heat transfer solution for each application.
Best Heat Transfer Fluids: A Quick Look
Discover how the right heat transfer fluid can make a big difference in performance, safety, and system life. Read on for a quick look at the best heat transfer fluids and what makes them stand out.
Fubex PYROTRANS ISO VG 22 Heat Transfer Oil
First up in our heat transfer solutions lineup is Fubex PYROTRANS ISO VG 22, a mineral-based heat transfer oil built for reliable thermal performance. It offers excellent oxidation stability, helping the oil last longer under heat stress.
With strong anti-wear protection and high-temperature stability, it keeps systems running smoothly. Ideal for generators and other heat transfer systems, it performs best with proper circulation and an expansion vessel in place.
Fubex PYROTRANS ISO VG 32
One of our most trusted heat transfer oils is Fubex PYROTRANS ISO VG 32, and it earns that reputation with consistent performance. This mineral-based oil delivers exceptional oxidation stability, helping it last longer under continuous heat. Its anti-wear protection and high-temperature stability keep systems running smoothly and safely.
Designed for heat transfer systems like generators, it performs best with proper circulation and an expansion vessel in place.
Fubex PYROTRANS ISO VG 46
Rounding out our heat transfer oil range is Fubex PYROTRANS ISO VG 46, built for tough, high-heat industrial work. It delivers long-lasting performance in demanding applications like plastic extrusion.
By reducing oil usage, preventing buildup, and resisting heat damage, it keeps systems running smoothly. With strong protection against rust and corrosion, it also helps lower maintenance and repair costs.
Final Takeaways
Choosing the right heat transfer fluid is more than just picking a liquid or gas—it’s about protecting equipment, improving efficiency, and saving costs. With the right HTF, industrial systems and energy plants can run smoothly, handle high temperatures, and reduce wear and tear over time.
Whether it’s for renewable energy, manufacturing, or heavy machinery, investing in quality heat transfer fluids ensures reliable performance and long-term benefits for your operations.
FAQs
Q1: What is a heat transfer fluid used for?
A heat transfer fluid (HTF) is used to carry heat from where it’s collected to where it’s needed. In some systems with lower temperatures, pressurized water can be used as the heat transfer fluid.
Q2: Is heat transfer fluid the same as coolant?
A coolant is a type of heat transfer fluid used in your car’s engine. It moves through the engine to keep the temperature steady, no matter how hot or cold it is outside.
Editor-at-Large
A passionate writer in the lubricant industry, Awais Iqbal has been covering oils, greases, and industrial fluids since the start of his career. At 25, he’s already written for blogs, catalogs, and brand guides across the UAE. Awais’s insights help companies connect with their audience, and his clear, helpful writing style is trusted by brands in the region.
