What metal is the cooling radiator in a car made of?
During engine operation, significant heating of all parts occurs. This is due to the combustion of fuel in the cylinders. To prevent overheating of the motor elements, a cooling radiator is needed. It can be made from a variety of materials. What material is better to choose and what are the features of each type? We will answer these questions in the article.
Aluminum radiators are the most popular among motorists. The weight of such radiators is insignificant. This is the main reason for its widespread use. Aluminum is inexpensive. Therefore, the choice of this material helps to save money. High thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance are indisputable advantages over other materials.
But it is worth considering the fact that aluminum is quite plastic. For this reason, it must be protected from mechanical stress to prevent deformation. To increase the service life, you can choose radiators made of aluminum, treated with a special paint.
Radiators of various brands are represented on the modern automotive market. You can find models for every taste. Almost all radiators available on the market today are made of aluminum. They differ only in the different shape of the honeycomb.
Copper cooling radiators are also common among motorists. They have a high level of thermal conductivity, increasing the efficiency of the part. Anti-corrosion properties and great strength make copper-brass radiators durable. However, due to the cost, this material often discourages both buyers and manufacturers and they opt for aluminum.
A copper radiator is better repairable, but its service life is a couple of years less than that of aluminum counterparts. Another point to pay attention to when choosing between these materials is the weight of the product. The copper radiator is about three times heavier. This factor plays an important role in decision making.
Copper becomes stronger at low temperatures, which is important for the operation of radiators in European territory. Even operation at high humidity rarely leads to corrosion due to the formation of a special protective film. The maximum temperature that copper radiators withstand is 150 degrees. They are less popular on the market than aluminum ones, but are still used on some cars.
So, having analyzed the main characteristics of copper and aluminum radiators, we can draw certain conclusions. It is worth choosing the material of the part based on financial capabilities. Copper is more expensive, but easier and cheaper to repair. The heat transfer coefficient of a copper radiator is almost twice as high as an aluminum one. The significant difference in weight (15 kg copper and 5 kg aluminum) also scares off car owners. But, given the strength of this metal, you can close your eyes to the weight.
Aluminum radiators, on the other hand, are almost beyond repair. Their service life is about 10 years, which is a couple of years longer than copper ones. But according to statistics, a person drives one car less than this time, which means that you should not overpay. Choosing a good manufacturer is also very important. Read more about companies that make cooling radiators in the blog https ://boltiigayki.com.ua/blog/top-luchshyh-radiatorov-ohlazhdenija/.
In addition to the material, it is worth paying attention to the compatibility of the cooling radiator with the car, the manufacturer and reviews. Since all radiators perform their function well. For this reason, before making a choice in favor of this or that material, it is worthwhile to carefully study the car market and the opinions of experienced car enthusiasts.