Car Radiator Information

A radiator is a cooling device in an automotive engine. Water and anti-freeze flow through the radiator and circulate through the engine as a coolant. Heat energy is made from the internal combustion and heat is then transferred to the coolant and then out into the air stream. Radiators are vital to the cooling system in automobiles. If overheating occurs, complete engine failure may result.

Appearance

Generally, a radiator is made with aluminum tubes and strips. These tubes are interlaced between the tubes, which allows for heat to be transferred into the tubes. After entering the tubes, the hot air enters the air stream and is carried away from vital parts of the vehicle. Outlet and inlet tanks, usually made from plastic, cover the sides of the radiator. On older cars, the core of the radiator was made with copper and brass. The aluminum and plastic versions are much cheaper and more effective. Plastic tanks help to seal the system and prevent leaks. With the brass and copper versions, the tanks had to be welded in order to seal the system.

Radiator Fans

The back of the radiator holds a fan that is either belt-driven or electric. The fans direct air flow through the radiator when the vehicle is traveling at a slow speed or idling. When the car is at a high speed, air passing through the grill of the car should be enough to keep temperatures low. When a radiator fan stops spinning, temperatures in the vehicle will begin to rise if the vehicle is traveling at a low speed or when the vehicle is idling. Electric fans work with temperature sensors that monitor temperature levels. The information is sent to the computer of the car and then the car "decides" whether or not the fan should be turned on.

How It Works

Because many of the parts in a vehicle are constantly moving while it's running, friction is created. Friction causes heat. Oil inside of a vehicle is used to lubricate these parts, but motor oil alone is not enough to get rid of excess heat. The radiator pumps anti-freeze and water through the engine block to absorb heat in order to keep important areas of the vehicle cool. If these vital areas heat up excessively, engine failure could occur. After coolant runs through the engine block, it runs back through the radiator where it runs through a number of chambers. The walls of the radiator draw heat from the coolant and a radiator fan sends air into the radiator in order to cool the engine even quicker.

The Thermostat

The thermostat is a vital part of a vehicle's cooling system. It is located between the engine and the radiator. The thermostat detects changes in temperature and controls fluid flow throughout the cooling system. As the engine starts, internal combustion starts as well. Coolant passes through the cylinders in order to absorb heat. If a thermostat fails, the cooling system will fail and the vehicle will overheat. Thermostats are relatively easy to replace.

Identifying a Radiator Problem

Cooling systems aren't perfect and may spring a leak. If the temperature of your vehicle is warmer than usual, pull over, turn off the engine and inspect the areas around your car. A greenish-looking fluid or water beneath the vehicle may indicate a leak. There may also be a distinct, sweet odor. This is the smell of coolant (anti-freeze). Listen for any strange sounds like a teakettle about to steam. Open the hood and open the lid to the overflow reservoir. If there is fluid in the overflow reservoir, there may be engine trouble. If there is a coolant leak, a strange smell or sound or water in the overflow reservoir, get the vehicle to an automotive technician as soon as possible.