What is the composition of coolant?
2 Answers
Automotive coolant is composed of: water, antifreeze, and additives. Based on different compositions, it can be divided into: alcohol type, glycerol type, and ethylene glycol type. The following is relevant information: Automotive coolant, also known as antifreeze coolant, is a medium that ensures the normal operation of water-cooled engines. The functions of automotive coolant are: 1. Prevent the coolant from freezing after parking in winter, which may cause the radiator and engine block to crack. 2. Prevent corrosion of the radiator, water pump, cylinder block and cylinder head, and water distribution pipe. 3. Reduce the formation of scale to avoid clogging the circulation pipes and affecting the heat dissipation function of the cooling system. 4. Meet the heat dissipation and cooling needs of high-load engines.
I check this coolant stuff every year before winter. It's basically a mix of ethylene glycol and pure water, roughly half and half. This combo is pretty amazing - it can handle 120°C in summer without boiling over, and won't freeze even at -30°C in winter. It contains corrosion inhibitors to protect the engine's metal parts, anti-foaming agents to prevent bubbles from affecting heat dissipation, and dyes so we can easily spot any leaks. Different colors mean different formulations - don't go mixing green and red ones randomly. The whole thing needs complete replacement every couple years, otherwise the additives lose effectiveness and the radiator could start rusting.