US-based coolants and corrosion protection fluids supplier Prestone Products has introduced three low-conductivity, corrosion-protectant thermal management fluids to meet upcoming industry specifications for EV coolants.
The products include a new silicate organic inhibitor technology EV thermal management fluid that meets specifications such as the EV coolant-specific GB29743.2 standard, which is aimed at enhancing safety. The fluid provides enhanced reserve alkalinity to extend EV lifespans.
Prestone has also launched a low-conductivity phosphate organic acid technology EV thermal management fluid. Also developed to meet the GB29743.2 standard, it is based on technology that provides corrosion protection and compatibility with flux-brazed aluminum. The fluid is free of silicate, borate and amine.
The third product is an ultra-low conductivity fuel cell coolant designed for compatibility with PEM fuel cell stacks, as hydrogen fuel cells have distinct requirements that require ultra-low electrical conductivity for cooling fluid. Prestone developed the formulation from the ground up using high-purity and non-ionic corrosion inhibitors.
Vehicle OEMs that operate or sell vehicles in China will need to comply with the GB29743.2 standard, which mandates a significant reduction in the electrical conductivity of coolants to enhance battery safety, by mid-2026. The standard will likely apply to the global industry in time.
“Corrosion poses a significant threat to the longevity and reliability of automotive components, especially in the highly sensitive, intricate systems found in electrified vehicles,” said Matt Kern, Senior Director of Global Sales, Prestone. “Prestone’s thermal management fluids serve as an ally in combating corrosion and forming a protective barrier that shields these systems from the harmful effects of corrosion.”