Liquid cooling has become the standard for high-density data center thermal management. Inhibited propylene glycol-based coolants at 25% concentration — such as the widely used LC-25 — offer solid performance. However, supply chain volatility and rising procurement costs have become growing concerns for facility operators.

This article provides a technical comparison between LC-25 and Glacier Coolant LM-4ABG (25%), based on publicly available data and internal testing, to help you evaluate a reliable, cost-effective alternative.

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The Cost Challenge of 25% Propylene Glycol Coolants

The typical performance specifications of a 25% inhibited propylene glycol-based heat transfer fluid (e.g., LC-25) are summarized below:

Despite their performance, two practical challenges persist:

• Rising procurement costs — driven by supply chain disruptions, logistics, and brand premium

• Supply uncertainty — extended lead times pose risks for time-sensitive projects

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How LM-4ABG Compares: Data You Can Trust

The following table compares LC-25 with Glacier Coolant LM-4ABG (25% concentration), based on internal test data and publicly available technical documentation.

Performance Comparison Table

*Note: LC-25 performance data is sourced from publicly available technical documentation for reference purposes only.*

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Why Lower Viscosity Means Lower PUE

Viscosity shows the most significant difference between the two fluids. LM-4ABG has a viscosity of 2.41 cP at 20°C, while LC-25 measures 2.80 cP — a difference of approximately 14%.

How viscosity impacts system operation:

• Lower pump energy consumption — reduced flow resistance lowers the power required for circulation pumps

• Better low-temperature startup — faster flow establishment during cold starts or low ambient temperatures

• Reduced system pressure drop — enables the use of smaller pumps or extends the life of existing ones

For large data center cooling systems, this translates into measurable annual electricity savings and directly contributes to a lower PUE.

Heat transfer efficiency: LM-4ABG shows slightly higher thermal conductivity (0.46 vs. 0.456 W/m·K) and specific heat (3.92 vs. 3.87 kJ/kg·K), meaning more heat can be transferred per unit time and more thermal energy can be carried away per unit mass.

Corrosion control: Both products have chloride and sulfate levels well below industrial corrosion thresholds, and operate in the alkaline pH range (8-11), providing a good passivation environment for metals such as carbon steel, copper, and brass. Corrosion inhibition performance is comparable between the two.

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The Bottom Line: Performance Without Compromise

Based on core heat transfer metrics, LM-4ABG is not a "cheap substitute" but a technically competitive alternative:

Key advantages summarized:

• Lower viscosity → lower pump energy → lower PUE

• Comparable freeze and corrosion protection → uncompromised system safety

• Stable supply and lower procurement cost → better total cost of ownership (TCO)

For data center operators seeking lower PUE and better TCO, LM-4ABG is a worthy option to evaluate.

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Cost & Supply: The Real-World Advantages

Without compromising performance, LM-4ABG delivers direct commercial benefits:

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Quality, Compatibility & Compliance

Product Quality

LM-4ABG Glacier Coolant is manufactured by Chaoyang Guangda Chemical Co., Ltd., using an inhibited propylene glycol formulation specifically designed for closed-loop circulation systems. Key TDS and SDS data are derived from internal technical files and third-party testing.

Material Compatibility

Consistent with industry benchmark products, LM-4ABG demonstrates good compatibility with common system metals (carbon steel, stainless steel, copper, brass) and elastomers (EPDM, NBR, etc.). For a detailed compatibility list, please contact our technical engineers.

Regulatory Compliance

This product is not classified as dangerous goods, with minimal restrictions on transport and storage, meeting environmental and safety entry standards for most industrial facilities.

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Technical Resources (TDS & SDS Preview)

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Next Steps: Test, Compare, Transition

For operations teams or procurement managers evaluating coolant optimization options, we recommend the following approach:

1. Sample Testing — Request an LM-4ABG sample from Glacier Coolant and validate compatibility and heat transfer efficiency in your skid unit or single rack.

2. Cost Assessment — Provide your annual usage volume, and we will deliver a direct financial cost comparison report.

3. Gradual Replacement — Existing coolant in your system does not need to be drained all at once. A scientifically designed mixing protocol allows for smooth transition through gradual replacement.

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Safety & Environmental: Equal Peace of Mind

Based on publicly available SDS information:

LM-4ABG uses high-purity propylene glycol raw material, achieving the same level of safety and environmental performance as industry benchmark products.

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Conclusion: A Smarter Choice for Data Center Cooling

Finding more economical cooling media without compromising core thermal performance is an inevitable trend in data center industry evolution. Glacier Coolant LM-4ABG demonstrates its capability through data and delivers value through cost efficiency.

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※ Disclaimer:

*The LC-25 performance data cited in this article is sourced from publicly available technical documentation for reference purposes only. LM-4ABG performance data is derived from internal testing and publicly available technical information. Due to variations in specific operating environments, users are advised to conduct adequate suitability testing before bulk use. Results are for reference only. The company assumes no liability for any direct or indirect losses arising from reliance on the data contained in this article.*