OptiShield Data Sheets, Safety, Testing, Directions, and Other Information
Data Sheets
Directions for Use
Safety Data Sheets
Other Information
Engineering Data-Corrosion Test Results
FAQ
What is OptiShield?
OptiShield is a liquid additive designed to inhibit corrosion in closed-loop process heating and cooling systems. It is formulated to protect these systems from galvanic corrosion caused by the presence of dissimilar metals within the circulating fluid. OptiShield is water-based and has excellent heat transfer properties, making it ideal for use in systems that circulate fluid to industrial machines such as lasers, welders, machine tools, and other process equipment.
Why do you need OptiShield?
Closed-loop heating and cooling systems contain various dissimilar materials, which can result in galvanic corrosion if left untreated. Galvanic corrosion can lead to system failure, reduced heat transfer efficiency, reduced flow, and costly system repairs. OptiShield is highly effective at controlling galvanic corrosion in recirculating systems, and it can provide several benefits such as improved system life, less maintenance, fewer costly repairs, and less downtime.
What is the shelf life of OptiShield?
A: OptiShield fluid can be stored for a period of 15 months from package date when stored in accordance with Opti Temp’s storage guidelines.
How long does OptiShield last once added to the system?
OptiShield will normally provide adequate protection for a period of one year. The length of time that OptiShield protects can be influenced by many factors, and protection length may vary. It is recommended that OptiShield be changed out a minimum of once annually to ensure continuous protection.
How much OptiShield should you order?
OptiShield is moderately toxic and should be used in concentrations of 1 part OptiShield to 10 parts system fluid. The amount needed will vary based on several factors such as the system’s fluid capacity, temperature, system design, and the approximate surface area of the metals present. It is best to contact Opti Temp engineers to recommend an appropriate concentration of corrosion inhibitor for your system.
What is the temperature range of the solution?
OptiShield is intended to be used in closed-loop (recirculating) systems with atmospheric reservoirs that fall in the temperature range of 40°F to 190°F. Performance outside this range may be satisfactory but is not guaranteed. Note: OptiShield is not an antifreeze and does not provide freeze protection. However, it is compatible with uninhibited Ethylene & Propylene glycols.
How critical is the mixture ratio of OptiShield to water?
A 10% concentration level with annual change-out is normally recommended. Any mixture less than 7% will compromise protection.
What kind of safety procedures and equipment are needed when mixing OptiShield with water?
Use in a well-ventilated area. Do not breathe mist or vapor. Wash hands thoroughly after handling the product. Protect eyes with safety goggles or glasses with side shields. See the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for more information.
Will electrical conductivity of the fluid have a negative impact on the proper operation of the system?
Some processes require a high-resistivity fluid, so it is essential to review the manufacturer’s specifications with regard to electrical conductivity of the system coolant to ensure that the OptiShield and water mixture falls within conductivity specifications. Opti Temp provides a graph of the electrical conductivity of OptiShield in micro siemens/cm vs. % concentration of OptiShield in DI water for reference.
Will the solution be damaged by high levels of ultraviolet light exposure?
OptiShield can absorb certain wavelengths of light, so sufficient exposure to ultraviolet light may cause OptiShield to break down. Therefore, it is not recommended for use in “flash lamp” laser applications where the coolant can be exposed to high concentrations of “broad spectrum” or “ultraviolet” light. A relative absorption curve is available from Opti Temp.
Are there any OptiShield products that I should avoid when considering various metals in my fluid circuit?
OptiShield II is formulated for low conductivity applications and should be used with caution. OptiShield II Plus should not be used if aluminum is present in your fluid circuit.
Can other additives be combined with OptiShield in the system?
OptiShield should not be mixed with any other additives as it may result in loss of protection or system damage. Opti Temp cannot be liable for damage resulting from the use of OptiShield which is inconsistent with Opti Temp recommendations. Note: OptiShield is compatible with uninhibited ethylene & propylene glycols.
What will happen if there is a voltage potential present across the coolant circuit?
If a voltage potential exists across the coolant or if electrical grounding exists, do not use OptiShield.
Will OptiShield void the manufacturer warranty?
A: Many OEMs recommend OptiShield for use with their systems. However, if there are warranty concerns, the OEM and/or Opti Temp should be contacted prior to using OptiShield in the system to ensure that the terms of the warranty are not violated.
What is the best way to dispose of used OptiShield and water mixture after draining a chiller?
It is the end-user’s responsibility to dispose of and handle in accordance with all current local, state, and federal regulations. Please contact your local municipal plant for disposal recommendations.
Is OptiShield a hazardous material?
OptiShield solution is non-flammable, non-reactive, and contains no metal particles, thus it is not listed as a hazardous waste on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) list of hazardous materials.
Are there shipping restrictions on OptiShield?
No, OptiShield is not a regulated chemical for shipping by the Department of Transportation (DOT).
Can premixed containers of OptiShield with water be obtained from Opti Temp?
Yes, premixed containers of OptiShield may be obtained by contacting the Opti Temp sales department.
Is OptiShield usable after freezing during transportation?
Yes, OPTISHIELD® is useable if frozen during transportation. Here is what we recommend:
- Completely thaw the mixture returning it to room temperature.
- Shake vigorously until particles are back in solution.
- If particles are still present:
- If there is a particle filter on the closed-loop system, feel free to use the OPTISHIELD®.
- If there is NOT a particle filter on the closed-loop system, filter the additional particles with a coffee filter.
- If large amounts of particles are present, follow Step B and use a 12% OPTISHIELD® mixture for safe measure.
