Is glycol the same as coolant?

Is glycol the same as coolant?

Though coolant and antifreeze are often used interchangeably, they aren’t the same. Antifreeze is made of ethylene glycol or propylene glycol and is the basic ingredient, but it has to be mixed with water to create coolant, which is the cocktail you will find in the cooling systems of all “water-cooled” vehicles.

What does glycol do in coolant?

While water provides the best heat transfer, glycol is also used in engine coolants to provide freeze protection. The addition of glycol slightly reduces the heat transfer of the water, but in most climates and applications, freeze protection is critical.

What kind of coolant do you put in a diesel engine?

It can be mixed with 50 percent water and 50 percent coolant solution, or up to 70 percent coolant and 30 percent water if needed. Designed for use in heavy-duty diesel engines, this coolant is designed to last a long while before it needs to be replaced.

What is the TMC recommended practice for coolant?

TMC RP 329 is a recommended practice (RP) developed by The Maintenance Council (TMC) of American Trucking Associations. This recommended practice is a fleet purchasing specification for nitrite containing ethylene glycol coolants, suitable for heavy duty diesel applications.

What kind of coolant is used for antifreeze?

IAT Coolant. The most common variety of liquid antifreeze is an IAT formula, or Inorganic Additive Technology. ZEREX™ Original Green is an IAT coolant that has been used for decades and is a formula proven to provide unsurpassed corrosion protection.

How is the density of coolant measured in an engine?

ASTM D 1122 (Standard Test Method for Density or Relative Density of Engine Coolant Concentrates and Engine Coolants By the Hydrometer) The relative density of an engine coolant may be used to determine the approximate percent glycol, freezing point, and boiling point provided the glycol type is known.

It can be mixed with 50 percent water and 50 percent coolant solution, or up to 70 percent coolant and 30 percent water if needed. Designed for use in heavy-duty diesel engines, this coolant is designed to last a long while before it needs to be replaced.

Which is the best coolant additive for your car?

It would be best if you refilled its radiators with antifreeze containing Supplemental Coolant Additives or SCA to avoid damages. Its engines easily overheat; therefore, it is necessary to use antifreeze with a high boiling point. Nevertheless, it is prudent to always check the car’s manual to be sure you are using the appropriate product.

What can you do about coolant degradation in an engine?

Once a coolant has degraded, due to glycol breakdown and pH drop, engine metals are at risk for corrosion. Coolant degradation can be slowed by using coolants with extended life inhibitors and by ensuring that the equipment is operating correctly and within designated design limits.

Is it good practice to mix coolant technologies?

Lots of misinformation about the compatibility of the different types of coolant technologies exists in literature and the marketplace. While it is not good maintenance practice to mix two different coolants, it will not result in compatibility issues as long as coolants from high-quality, reputable suppliers are used.