What is the purpose of antifreeze?
2 Answers
Antifreeze is a type of coolant containing special additives, primarily used in liquid-cooled engine cooling systems. It serves multiple functions, including preventing freezing in winter, boiling in summer, and protecting against scale and corrosion throughout the year, ensuring the engine operates within the normal temperature range. Antifreeze has a high boiling point, low volatility, moderate viscosity, minimal changes with temperature variations, and excellent thermal stability, making it an ideal coolant. It is commonly used in automobiles, diesel locomotives, tractors, ships, engines, radiators, and various mechanical equipment, such as diesel and gasoline engines, as a cooling fluid. The typical service life of antifreeze is two years, and it must be replaced regularly, usually every two years or every 40,000 kilometers driven.
As a car owner in the north where winter temperatures often drop to -20 or -30 degrees Celsius, antifreeze is a lifesaver. The engine generates high temperatures during operation, exceeding 100°C in summer—ordinary water would boil and potentially cause explosions. In winter, if the coolant freezes, metal components can crack, leading to repairs costing thousands. Antifreeze contains special ingredients like ethylene glycol, lowering the freezing point to -40°C and raising the boiling point above 130°C, making it perfect for both seasons. It also prevents rust and corrosion, extending the lifespan of the water pump and radiator. Changing antifreeze is quite simple—I do it myself every two years, using a tester to check concentration. Different colors indicate types, like green for long-life formulas. Neglecting it can leave your car unable to start in winter, requiring a tow truck and risking engine damage. In short, it’s a small investment with big returns—always check it during maintenance.
