On Apr 1, 7:14*pm, " wrote:
I've been using engine oil as a coolant for high power resistors but
am wondering whether something like peanut, sunflower or avocado oil
would be better. Engine oil gives off an awful smell when it breaks
down, smells like rotten eggs. Can't find transformer oil. Any
thoughts?

The Heath Cantenna just used mineral oil, used to be available by the
gallon from the drug store. Handled a kilowatt and was parked in a
gallon can, so that might give you some idea of what you might need
for volume.

There are various additives that are in engine oil for anti-wear
properties, added to the mineral oil base. You aren't going to need
those and they're the source of the smell, they contain sulfur. If
your project gets that hot, you need more oil!

Vegetable oils generally will go rancid, jell, get wildlife growing in
them, absorb water and do other things that mineral oils don't.
Unless you're making a turkey fryer, give them a pass.

Transformer oil is just purified mineral oil, moisture-free. Can
still be had from the right suppliers. Might have to buy a barrel,
the retail market is kind of small.

Stan