LO 11-2 Identify and explain the purposes and functions of the cooling system

1. Purposes and Functions of the Cooling System

LO 11-02: Identify and explain the purposes and functions of the cooling system.

 

Purposes and Functions of the Cooling System

Not all the heat produced from combustion events is converted to mechanical energy. Cylinder components, the block, and the cylinder head are exposed to direct combustion heat exceeding 4000° F (2204° C). Without a method to remove the heat absorbed by these components, an engine is quickly destroyed. It is not only components exposed to combustion heat that require cooling but also other systems that either use coolant or require coolant circulation, all of which add to the heat loads of the cooling system. Additional sources that add to the coolant system heat load include Figure 3:

  • Engine oil
  • Air compressors
  • Pressurized charge air
  • Turbocharger bearings
  • Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR)
  • Transmission oil and fuel cooling
  • Engine control units
  • Electric drive motors, fuel cells, and batteries for electric drive vehicles
  Fig11_3

FIGURE 11-3: Heat-loading components and systems of an engine transferring heat to the cooling system.

 

Some combustion heat is released into the passenger compartment through heat exchangers or to help warm up cold fuel. Whether they add or subtract from the heat loads on the cooling system, these engine support systems depend on its proper operation to enable the engine to perform all its functions well and to deliver long and reliable service. These next sections examine the functions the cooling system performs and outline how each is accomplished in order to provide a better understanding of cooling system maintenance and inspection procedures.

 

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