Basic cooling system components
|
The primary components in a vehicle cooling system are: Radiator; Thermostat & Housing; Water Pump; Cooling Fan; Radiator Hoses; Heater Hoses.
|
Radiator
|
Many radiators are mounted at the front of the vehicle in the path of greatest airflow. The air carries heat away, cooling the liquid before it returns to absorb more heat from the engine.
|
Coolant hoses
|
Water can absorb more heat per volume than most other liquids, but it can allow corrosion and damaging electrolysis. This is controlled by inhibitors.
|
Water pump
|
The water pump pumps coolant through the engine and radiator. It is belt-driven from a pulley. A hose connects it to the bottom of the radiator.
|
Cooling system thermostat
|
A thermostat shortens an engine’s warming-up period. It is a valve operated by coolant temperature. It stops coolant circulating through the system while the engine is cold.
|
Cooling fans
|
A fan helps generate airflow through a radiator. It can be driven by a belt off the crankshaft or electrically. It can be controlled according to temperature.
|
Temperature indicators
|
A temperature indicator is a device that is sensitive to engine temperature. It sends readings to a temperature gauge or a warning lamp.
|
Radiator pressure cap
|
One way to help prevent a coolant boiling is to use a radiator-pressure cap that uses pressure to change the temperature at which water boils.
|
Recovery system
|
A recovery system keeps the cooling system full. As engine temperature rises, coolant expands and flows out into a container. As it cools it returns to the radiator.
|
Boiling point & pressure
|
Changes in water pressure can change the temperature at which it boils.
|
Electrolysis
|
Electrolysis is also a method of epilation. In chemistry and manufacturing, electrolysis is a method of separating bonded elements and compounds by passing an electric current through them.
|
Centrifugal force
|
Centrifugal force is a force pulling outward on a rotating body.
|
Thermo-switch
|
A thermo-switch opens and closes according to pre-set temperature levels.
|
