What is the function of antifreeze?
2 Answers
Antifreeze prevents the coolant from freezing and cracking the radiator or damaging the engine cylinder block or head when the vehicle is parked in cold winter conditions. Antifreeze should not be mixed with water. As a type of alcohol-based chemical reagent, antifreeze provides freeze and rust protection. Adding water can alter its properties and reduce its effectiveness. Functions of antifreeze: Antifreeze is a coolant containing special additives, primarily used in liquid-cooled engine cooling systems. It offers excellent performance in preventing freezing in winter, boiling in summer, and providing year-round protection against scale and corrosion. Composition of antifreeze: The main components of antifreeze are 50% pure water, 40% methanol, and 10% other substances. Types of antifreeze: Antifreeze is generally categorized into three types: ethanol-water type, glycerol-water type, and ethylene glycol-water type. Can different antifreezes be mixed? It is necessary to use antifreeze from the same brand. Different brands may have varying production formulas, and mixing them could lead to chemical reactions between additives, rendering them ineffective.
Speaking of antifreeze, as an old car enthusiast, I'd like to share some insights. The core function of antifreeze is to prevent the cooling system from freezing in winter and keep the engine running properly. But more crucially, it prevents boiling – during summer or long-distance driving, engine overheating can damage internal components, and antifreeze avoids such crises by raising the boiling point. It also provides anti-corrosion protection, reducing rust in the radiator and water pump. From my personal experience, I replace it every two years to prevent scale buildup from clogging the pipes. Additionally, antifreeze acts as a lubricant, ensuring smooth operation of the water pump. Having driven many cars over the years, I’ve encountered cases where the radiator froze in winter, leading to breakdowns and costly engine repairs. That’s why I now emphasize seasonal checks and recommend testing the freezing point index in autumn or winter before replacing it – it’s both hassle-free and safe. In short, antifreeze is like a guardian charm for the engine, offering dual protection against both freezing and overheating.
