Which radiator fluid to choose?
Cooling system - Its purpose is to ensure the optimum operating temperature of the engine and keep it constant at about 90 ° C.100 degrees Celsius. The technical condition of this system, as well as the corresponding radiator fluid, has the greatest influence on the correct operation of this system. Do you know how to choose it?
In addition to the above factors affecting the operation of the cooling system, a regular inspection of the cooling system is also carried out, which is based on checking the liquid level in the radiator and its main parameters - freezing and boiling points.
Radiator fluid - what is it?
- It transfers thermal energy between the engine and the radiator and removes about 30% of the thermal energy contained in the burned fuel.
- Protects against freezing, cavitation and boiling.
- Protects engine and cooling system components from corrosion.
- As a result, no precipitation is formed or deposited in the cooling system.
Remember that depending on the model and condition of the vehicle, you need to check and top up the fluid level from time to time. We usually do this with demineralized or distilled water. Normal can cause scale build-up in the cooler and over time the engine will overheat.
Department of coolants for coolers.
- IAT (Technology of inorganic additives), that is, complete chemistry, without organic additives, based on glycol, the important components of which are silicates and nitrates, to protect the system from scale and corrosion.
The advantages of this liquid: low price and cooperation with old solutions in cars, where the radiator is made of copper or brass, the aluminum radiator is very susceptible to damage from the IAT fluid consumed. The liquid is enough for about 2 years.
- OAT (Organic Acid Technology) - These fluids used organic acid solutions instead of inorganic compounds to protect both metallic and non-metallic surfaces. They are distinguished by a long service life (at least 5 years) and the possibility of using them in aluminum coolers.
The disadvantage of this liquid is, of course, the higher price and the reaction of these acids with some plastics and solders. This is worth paying attention to, especially if you have a copper cooler.
- HOAT Or SiOAT, i.e. hybrid technology or, as the second name suggests, a combination of silicates (Si) with organic acid-based OAT fluids. This mixture is gradually replacing IAT fluids from the market.
-NMOAT this is a special group of fluids intended for working machines. Their specialty is the addition of molybdenum compounds to a typical OAT fluid, resulting in a typical lifespan of at least 7 years, and the fluid itself is compatible with most materials used in cooling systems. This technology is also less expensive than the production of POAT fluids, making molybdenum fluids more cost-effective than environmental fluids.*
When to replace the coolant
There are as many recommendations as there are manufacturers. The service life varies, but regardless of the car model or type of fluid, the service life does not exceed 5 years. People who value the efficiency of individual systems in their vehicle change the coolant every three years on average. This time frame is considered by the mechanics to be a very good solution.
When buying a radiator fluid, it is worth choosing one with the best set of additional components that prevent corrosion of engines and components in the radiator. Remember that it is very important to periodically change the coolant in the radiator, which can prevent a serious failure of the cooling system and even the engine!
If you are looking for a radiator fluid that has everything you need for your vehicle, go to Knock out and buy!
