Can the Wind Chill Affect a Car Radiator?

Not only does wind chill affect radiators, it is relied upon for successful function of the cooling system. While engineers involved with thermodynamics might refer to the process as "heat removal", the cooling effects of wind chill are constantly needed for proper radiator performance. The radiator, and other cooling system components, are designed to take full advantage of the cooler, passing air. Engine cooling is necessary because of the high temperatures that result from the combustion process. Without some means to remove the extreme heat, the internal engine parts would become hot enough to fuse and the engine would seize. Some smaller engines can survive with air as the only cooling method, but water cooling renders better overall performance.

Cooling Fins

The configuration of a radiator is meant to expose as much surface area as possible to passing air. Water-filled tubes run between two reservoirs, or tanks, to the radiator. As the liquid flows through the tubes, it is cooled by the air streaming over the tube surfaces. A multitude of small metal fins are placed around the tubes to help concentrate the air flow, and supplement the radiating surface area. A vehicle traveling at cruising speed can require nothing more than the ambient air that enters through the radiator grille and fins to maintain proper operating temperature. Other measures are needed whenever a vehicle travels slowly or remains stationary.

Cooling Fans

Whenever the air flow through the radiator is insufficient for engine cooling, a fan of one sort or another comes into play. Electric cooling fans are typically energized by a switch that senses the temperature of the liquid in the radiator. When a preset value is attained, the switch closes, and the fan is activated. Conversely, the switch opens at a prescribed lowered temperature, and fan function ceases. Other styles of radiator cooling fans are powered by a belt-driven engine accessory, like the water pump. The fan shaft spins any time the engine is running, and certain devices in the fan drive system engage or disengage the fan blades, as needed.

Hot Stuff

The liquid coolant flowing through modern engines is comprised of various chemicals and is diluted with water to provide a specific mixture. The proportions and quantities of the mixture are carefully specified for a particular vehicle cooling system. The chemical content of coolant, or anti-freeze, not only protects the liquid from freezing, but also raises the boiling point well beyond that of plain water. These chemical properties, and the pressurization of the system, prevent fluid losses due to evaporation. A device in the engine, known as the thermostat, opens and closes as needed, to allow the hot liquid in the engine to trade places with the cooler contents of the radiator. Air flowing through the radiator removes heat from the liquid in time for the process to repeat, allowing the cooling system to maintain an even operating temperature within the engine.

Keeping Cool

Any appreciable obstruction to the flow of air over the radiator can prevent proper function and possibly cause a vehicle to overheat. Debris that clogs the cooling fins and tubes of the radiator can reduce or halt the flow, regardless of cooling fan actions. Compressed air, or water from a garden hose nozzle, can be directed through the engine-side of the radiator to dislodge dead bugs or other debris from the fins and tubes. A defective thermostat can fail to open or close, and either malfunction nullifies the benefits a radiator affords. Simple cooling system maintenance procedures are outlined by vehicle manufacturers and are required periodically.