The Role of Engine Coolant Chemicals in Preventing Overheating and Corrosion

In the intricate world of automotive engineering, managing the internal temperature of heavy-duty diesel engines is as crucial as the mechanical components that drive the vehicle. This balance of heat is delicately managed, with one-third of the energy generated used to propel the vehicle forward, another third exiting through the exhaust system, and the final third being regulated by the engine's cooling system. This careful removal of heat by this is vital to ensure the engine operates effectively without overheating, which could otherwise lead to accelerated deterioration of both oil and engine components over time.

If an engine overheats, it can cause severe damage including warping or cracking of the cylinder head, engine block, and other components. This can lead to oil leaks, loss of coolant, decreased performance, and ultimately, engine failure. Additionally, the excessive heat can degrade engine oil and other fluids, further impairing the engine's functionality and lifespan.

Water, known for its superior heat transfer capabilities, forms the base of most engine cooling systems. However, in colder climates where freezing temperatures are a concern, simply using water is impractical due to its high freezing point. To counteract this, glycol, specifically ethylene glycol, is added to the mixture. While glycol slightly reduces the heat transfer efficiency of water, its ability to lower the freezing point is indispensable in many operating environments. Typically, an engine utilizes a 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol and water, striking a balance between efficient heat transfer and necessary freeze protection.

In some industrial applications, variations may occur, such as the use of water or a combination of propylene glycol and water, tailored to the specific environmental and operational requirements of the engine. Apart from the base fluids, this chemical includes a small percentage of other crucial additives like corrosion inhibitors, antifoams, dyes, and various functional additives. These components, though minimal in quantity, play a significant role in defining its effectiveness and its specific application. Further, these additives prevent corrosion by incorporating inhibitors like phosphates and silicates that form a protective barrier on metal surfaces within the engine. This barrier shields against corrosive chemical reactions and electrochemical attacks, extending the lifespan of engine components. Additionally, advancements in formulations exclude certain minerals to avoid deposit formation that can lead to under-the-scale corrosion.

However, the protective layer formed by silicates and phosphates depletes over time, requiring these to be changed at regular intervals, typically every two years, to maintain optimal engine health. The challenge of hard water minerals such as calcium and magnesium has led to advancements in advance technology that exclude phosphates. These minerals react with phosphate-based inhibitors to form insoluble deposits, which can adhere to hot engine surfaces and hinder heat transfer, potentially causing overheating and under-the-scale corrosion.

Their products not only ensure effective heat management but also provide robust protection against corrosion, aligning with the latest global standards for environmental and operational safety. By continually evolving their formulations, Chemtex supports the automotive industry in maintaining the critical thermal balance that is essential for engine durability and efficiency.

The name Chemtex depicts Chemical Technology Experts. The early 1970s saw the foundation of Chemtex. And in the following decades, it expanded with its variety of indigenous chemicals and industries catered.