Importance of Antifreeze
11/12/2013 11:28
Antifreeze prevents a automobile's cooling system from succumbing to the physical stresses and deformation caused by expansion that occurs when water turns into ice. Most antifreezes are made up of chemical compounds that are added to water, therefore reducing the freezing point of the mixture to below the lowest temperature the system is likely to encounter.
The traditional antifreeze formulas used for aluminum radiators, cylinder heads or blocks contains high levels of silicates. This is not intended for use in cast iron engines with copper or brass radiators. Silicates form protective barriers on aluminum. In European and Asian OEM antifreezes, the additives contain less silicate, instead relying on borates to prevent corrosion. There are also no phosphates in European antifreezes because hard water can react with phosphates and form calcium and magnesium sediments.
Ethylene glycol is the most widely used antifreeze for automotive cooling systems. However, Methanol, ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, and propylene glycol are used as well. These are all substances that prohibit corrosion in the engine.
Should the engine coolant get too hot, it might boil inside the engine. This can cause voids or pockets of steam which can lead to catastrophic engine failure. By using a proper engine coolant and a pressurized coolant system, both problems can be alleviated. Certain antifreezes will prevent freezing until -87 degrees Celsius.
Saturn and some European car makers also use green dye for their extended life coolants. Dex-Cool extended life coolant, now used in new GM vehicles, is dyed orange to differentiate it from regular antifreeze. If mixed with other antifreeze, the color may or may not change, depending on the amount used. GM gives a warning that mixing other types of antifreeze with Dex-Cool can reduce the life of the coolant to ordinary antifreeze. Along with keeping the car at its ideal temperature, many antifreeze products, like PEAK Long Life Antifreeze and Coolant, have extra additives that help prevent corrosion which lead to costly engine breakdowns.
To keep a car running smoothly, add coolant to the radiator as well, if the reservoir is empty. Make sure that the radiator has cooled completely before removing the cap. Check the condition of the coolant being added. One of the leading causes of radiator failure is corrosion caused by not maintaining the cooling system. The inhibitors in traditional antifreeze gradually deplete over time. It's recommended that the coolant be changed every two years or every 24,000 to 30,000 miles.
Make sure to keep the radiator clean. As you drive, the cooling system takes in air, bugs, dirt, leaves and other debris. It's important to keep it clean so that air can easily pass through. Inspect your pressure cap and hoses. The cap on the radiator keeps the correct pressure for the coolant. If the cap becomes rusted or dried, replace it. Check the hoses for leaks, cracks or soft places. If you find any of these problems, replace the hose.
There are antifreeze formulas that offer extended service, going 5 years or 150,000 miles between changes. This can reduce the need for cooling system maintenance and the risk of early radiator failure. Still, most vehicles still have conventional antifreeze additives in their cooling systems. Therefore, do not neglect regular coolant checks and changes, as the risk of corrosion will increase each year.
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