However, the thermofluids used must meet strict requirements. They should not attack the material, yet also be flame-retardant. Immersion cooling is also already being used in several supercars. The manufacturers use fluorinated coolants for this, which are critical in terms of handling during production, disposal, and leakage into the environment. If they escape into the atmosphere, these can have a significant negative impact on bodies of water through precipitation.
FUCHS PETROLUB is therefore working on alternatives. "We use traditional oils, which are made up of hydrocarbon chains and can be disposed of in an environmentally friendly way," comments Kraft. Working in secure laboratories, the experts from the Group research the properties that these thermofluids must fulfill. This is highly complex work. For example, short-chained hydrocarbons have a lower viscosity and can be pumped through the cooling system more efficiently. However, they are more flammable.