What characteristic should oils have to be suitable for a hot oil system?

For a hot oil system, the oils used must be non-corrosive to the metals involved in the system. This characteristic is critical because hot oil systems typically involve prolonged contact between the oil and various metal components, such as pumps, pipes, and heat exchangers. If the oil were corrosive, it could lead to the degradation of the metals, resulting in leaks, failures, or reduced efficiency of the system over time.

Non-corrosive oils help to maintain the integrity and longevity of the system, ensuring safe and effective operation. Additionally, using oils that do not react negatively with metals assists in preventing the formation of harmful by-products, which could impact system performance and lead to costly maintenance or replacements.

Focusing on the importance of chemical compatibility between the oil and the materials of construction ensures that the hot oil system operates reliably and minimizes downtime.