What is a car radiator?
2 Answers
The radiator is the main component of the car's cooling system, also known as the overflow tank, and its function is to maintain the engine temperature. Through the circulation of coolant in the engine water passages, it absorbs heat from the cylinder block, then dissipates the heat through large-area cooling fins, maintaining the engine's optimal operating temperature. The radiator is composed of hollow copper tubes, where high-temperature coolant enters the radiator, dissipates heat, and then circulates back to the engine cylinder walls. Precautions for using antifreeze: 1. Try to use the same brand of antifreeze: Different brands of antifreeze use different metal corrosion inhibitors, so antifreezes of different brands should not be mixed. 2. The validity period of antifreeze is mostly two years: When adding, make sure the product is within its validity period; when replacing, drain the old fluid, clean the cooling system thoroughly, and then replace it with new fluid. 3. Avoid diluting with water: Traditional inorganic antifreeze should not be diluted with water, as this can cause precipitation, severely affecting the normal function of the antifreeze. Organic antifreeze can be diluted with water, but not too much. 4. Flocculent precipitation: Some antifreeze may develop a small amount of flocculent precipitation after being stored for a year, which is mostly caused by the precipitation of additives and does not need to be discarded. However, if a large amount of granular precipitation appears, it indicates that the antifreeze has deteriorated and should no longer be used.
I've been driving for over 20 years, and the radiator is that component in the car specifically designed to hold coolant. Simply put, it's a crucial part for preventing engine overheating. When the engine operates, it generates a significant amount of heat. The coolant in the radiator circulates to absorb this heat, then releases it through the front radiator by dissipating hot air. Though it may seem insignificant, once issues like leaks or rust occur, the car's temperature gauge will alert you, or worse, the engine may overheat and stall. I've encountered this a few times in my life, like when the radiator got clogged in heavy traffic on a hot day, forcing me to stop and let it cool down. That's why regular maintenance is essential—always check the coolant level; if it's below the minimum mark, top it up with antifreeze instead of tap water. It's recommended to replace the coolant every two years to avoid corrosion. Especially before long summer trips, make sure to inspect it and keep the exterior cooling fins clean by rinsing them with water. A well-maintained radiator ensures your car runs longer, saving you both hassle and fuel.
