The function of the radiator is to
ensure close contact of the hot water coming out of the engine with outside
air, to ensure high rates of heat transfer from the water to air. A radiator
consists of an upper tank, core and the lower tank. Besides, an overflow pipe
in the header tank and a drain pipe in the lower tank are provided.
There are two basic types of radiator
cores, tubular type and cellular type. In the former, it is the water that flows
through tubes air passes through the tubes and water flows in the spaces in
between them. Out of these, tubular type cores are the most commonly used which
are further classified depending upon the shape of the fins around the tubes, which are meant to increase the area for heat transfer from water to the
cooling air.
The materials used for radiators
should be resistant to corrosion, possess higher thermal
conductivity and form easily, apart from having adequate strength. Copper and
yellow brass are the widely used materials for radiators. Aluminium is also used
for weight and cost consideration.
For heavy-duty applications, radiator
shutters are also sometimes used. They are automatically controlled through
the compressed air taken from the brake system. The shutter control mechanism is
installed with the upper hose of the cooling system.
Depending upon the coolant
temperature coming from the engine, which itself depends upon the engine temperature
the shutter control mechanism causes the shutter to open to close. Thus, for example,
the shutter remains closed during starting and it gradually opens up as the
engine attains its working temperature, thus allowing the fresh air to come
into contact with the radiator.
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