Auto Repair Encyclopedia

Radiator

By transferring engine heat into the airflow around the vehicle, the radiator controls the engine temperature. The radiator is of lightweight construction, using copper, brass, aluminum, or aluminum with plastic elements. The radiator has a tank on each end.

Hot coolant enters one end of the radiator and circulates through a matrix of very thin tubes that are interconnected with a honeycomb core of thin, foil-like metal strips. As the hot coolant travels across the radiator core, heat is radiated into the air flowing through the radiator's honeycomb-like core. The coolant exits the radiator after giving up its "thermal load" to the surrounding air. Strategically located to optimize natural air flow, the radiator also incorporates dedicated fans to increase airflow through the radiator, further enhancing its efficiency.

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