What is the freezing point of antifreeze?
2 Answers
New car antifreeze typically has a freezing point between -15°C and -68°C. Below is more information about antifreeze: 1. The full name of antifreeze is antifreeze coolant, and as the name suggests, it has two main functions: first, to prevent freezing, and second, to cool. 2. Antifreeze prevents the coolant from freezing and cracking the vehicle's cooling system when parked in cold winter, while in summer, it prevents "boiling over." 3. The main component of antifreeze is ethylene glycol, and the freezing point of antifreeze varies with the ethylene glycol content.
I usually pay close attention to car maintenance, and the freezing point of antifreeze should be considered based on the actual mixing ratio. Automotive antifreeze is typically ethylene glycol-based. When mixed with water at a 50:50 ratio, its freezing point is around -37°C. Winter temperatures vary greatly across different regions, and higher concentrations result in lower freezing points. For example, a 60% antifreeze solution can lower the freezing point to -50°C. Why is this important? In extremely cold areas, if the freezing point is higher than the ambient temperature, the antifreeze can freeze and expand, damaging the engine's radiator, which is costly to repair. I recommend checking the labeled freezing point on the antifreeze packaging to ensure it is at least 10°C below the local minimum temperature. Before each winter, use a hydrometer to test the antifreeze to prevent the freezing point from rising. Good antifreeze performance also requires corrosion protection, so never opt for cheap, off-brand products.
