Is Antifreeze the Same as Coolant?
1 Answers
Coolant and antifreeze are not the same thing. The full name of coolant is antifreeze coolant, which is a coolant with antifreeze functionality. As the name suggests, it has two main functions: first, antifreeze, and second, cooling. Antifreeze prevents the coolant from freezing and expanding in cold winter conditions, which could otherwise crack the radiator and damage the engine cylinder head. Below is an introduction to coolant: 1. Definition of coolant: The full name should be antifreeze coolant, meaning it is a coolant with antifreeze properties. Antifreeze prevents the coolant from freezing and expanding during cold weather parking, which could crack the radiator and damage the engine cylinder block. However, it is important to correct a misconception: antifreeze is not just for winter use; it should be used year-round. 2. Composition of coolant: It consists of three parts: water, antifreeze agent, and additives. Based on the antifreeze agent used, it can be classified into alcohol-based, glycerol-based, ethylene glycol-based, and other types of coolant. Alcohol-based coolant uses ethanol (commonly known as alcohol) as the antifreeze agent. It is inexpensive, has good fluidity, and is simple to prepare, but due to its low boiling point and tendency to evaporate, it is gradually being phased out.
