Which antifreeze is better to fill? What antifreeze is better to fill in? Ethylene glycol - dihydric alcohol for high-quality antifreeze Ethylene glycol red.

GENERAL INFORMATION

The internal combustion engine must be cooled to ensure the normal thermal operation of its components and parts. The most common cooling systems with forced circulation of fluid. During operation, it can heat up to 100 ° C and sometimes more, and cool down to ambient temperature in the parking lot. The efficiency of the cooling system, the reliability and durability of the engine largely depend on the properties of the liquid. It must have a high heat capacity, thermal conductivity, boiling point, mobility, as well as a low crystallization temperature and coefficient of volumetric expansion. The coolant must not cause corrosion of metals, destroy the rubber seals and foam during operation.
Water has the greatest cooling capacity, has the maximum heat capacity, fireproof, non-toxic and cheap. But water has a relatively low boiling point and evaporates relatively quickly, and if at the same time it is hard (contains mineral impurities and dissolved salts), then scale is actively formed. At temperatures below 0°C, water freezes and turns into ice (crystallizes) with a significant, up to 10% increase in volume. This leads to the "defrosting" of the engine - the destruction of its main parts and assemblies. Therefore, it cannot be used in the cold season without draining from the car during long-term parking outside a warm garage.
Low freezing coolants - antifreezes(from the English "antifreeze" - non-freezing) replaced water in the cooling systems of modern car engines. The most widely used low-freezing fluids based on glycol, which are a mixture of ethylene glycol with water. Sometimes there are liquids based on propylene glycol - they cannot be mixed with ethylene glycol.

COMPOSITION AND PROPERTIES OF ANTIFREEZE

Ethylene glycol (monoethylene glycol)- oily yellowish liquid, odorless, moderately viscous, with a density of 1.112-1.113 g/cm3 (at 20°C), a boiling point of 197°C and crystallization of -11.5°C. When heated, ethylene glycol and its aqueous solutions expand greatly. To prevent the ejection of liquid from the cooling system, it is equipped with an expansion tank and filled to 92–94% of the total volume.
An aqueous solution of ethylene glycol is chemically aggressive and causes corrosion of steel, cast iron, aluminum, copper and brass parts of the cooling system, as well as solders used for soldering its components. In addition, ethylene glycol is highly toxic.
propylene glycol- similar in properties to ethylene glycol and less toxic, but about 10 times more expensive. At low temperatures, it is more viscous than ethylene glycol, and therefore pumpability is poorer.
A mixture of ethylene glycol and water characterized by the fact that the temperature of its crystallization depends on the ratio of these two components. In a mixture, it is significantly lower than separately for water and ethylene glycol. At various proportions, solutions with a crystallization temperature from 0 to -75°C can be obtained. The temperature of crystallization and boiling, as well as the density of a mixture of ethylene glycol and water, depending on the content of ethylene glycol in it, are shown in the figure. The lowest freezing point value corresponds to a composition in which ethylene glycol is 66.7% and water is 33.3%. In other cases, the same freezing point can be obtained with two ratios of ethylene glycol and water. It is economically advantageous to use the option with a large amount of water.
Determination of the ratio of ethylene glycol and water in antifreeze is carried out according to the density measured using a hydrometer or hydrometer. On special instruments, for convenience, instead of a density scale, a double scale is used, which simultaneously shows the percentage of ethylene glycol and the crystallization temperature. When checking, it is necessary to take into account the temperature corrections to the readings of the device indicated in the instructions for it.

Additive complex includes anticorrosive, antifoaming, stabilizing and coloring agents. Antifreezes should not contain nitrite-nitrates in their composition, which, interacting with amines, form toxic compounds, some of which are carcinogenic (causing cancer).
Requirements for antifreeze in Russia installed in accordance with GOST 28084-89 “Low-freezing cooling fluids. General technical conditions". The standard normalizes the main indicators of ethylene glycol-based coolants: appearance, density, crystallization onset temperature, corrosive effect on metals, foaming, rubber swelling, etc. Coolants are not subject to mandatory certification.
Certain brands of ready-to-use antifreezes and concentrates that require dilution with distilled water before use are produced according to specifications that specify the composition and presence of additives, miscibility of liquids and their color. Manufacturers assign them various names, for example, “Tosol”, “Lena”, “Lada”, “Antifreeze G-48” and (or) indicate the crystallization temperature: OZH-40, OZH-65, A-40.
"TOSOL"- one of the names of antifreeze, formed from two parts:
"TOS"- "Technology of organic synthesis" (the name of the department of GosNIIOKhT that created the antifreeze);
"OL"- the ending characteristic of alcohols (ethanol, butynol, methanol).
This antifreeze was developed in 1971 at the State Research Institute of Organic Chemistry and Technology (GosNIIOKhT) for VAZ cars to replace the Italian PARAFLU. The trademark "TOSOL" was not registered, so it is used by many domestic manufacturers of coolants. But the performance properties of "antifreeze" can be different, since they are determined by the additives used, and they differ from different manufacturers.
Coolant Compatibility determined by the specifications. Fluids made according to different specifications are often incompatible, since the additives they contain can react with each other and lose their useful properties. Therefore, if necessary, restore the coolant level, it is better to add distilled water.
Requirements for foreign-made antifreezes are generally defined by ASTM (American Association for Testing and Materials) and SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers of the USA) standards. These standards regulate the properties of concentrates and antifreeze based on their basis (ethylene glycol or propylene glycol) and operating conditions. For example, ethylene glycol fluids are designed for: ASTM D 3306 and ASTM D 4656 for passenger cars and light trucks;
according to ASTM D 4985 and ASTM D 5345 - for engines operating in severe conditions: long-term operation in modes close to maximum power, on off-road vehicles, large trucks, in stationary power plants, etc. These liquids differ in that a special additive must be added to them before use.
Imported antifreezes according to ASTM D 3306 can be used for domestic passenger cars.
Manufacturer Specifications vehicles may contain additional requirements. For example, General Motors USA standards - Antifreeze Concentrate GM 1899-M, GM 6038-M or Volkswagen Group G standards prohibit the use of corrosion inhibitors containing nitrites, nitrates, amines, phosphates in antifreeze and stipulate maximum permissible concentrations of silicates, borax, chlorides. This reduces scale deposits, increases seal life, and improves corrosion protection.

REPLACING ANTIFREEZE

Planned replacement necessary because even during normal operation, the content of additives in the antifreeze gradually decreases and the corrosion of engine parts increases. The liquid foams more, therefore, it transfers heat worse and the motor may overheat. As a rule, a scheduled replacement is recommended after two years, and with intensive use - every 60 thousand km. car mileage.
Early replacement may be required when exhaust gases enter the cooling system, for example, through a faulty head gasket, or air at leaks, which leads to accelerated aging of the fluid. Signs of this need may include:
- a jelly-like mass forms on the inner surface of the expansion tank;
- in light frost (down to -15 ° C), the antifreeze becomes mushy and sediment is found in the tank;
- the electric fan of the radiator of the cooling system works more and more often.
In an emergency, for example, when replacing a broken hose on a long journey, water has to be poured into the cooling system from a random source. Hard water with impurities activates corrosion and causes the formation of foreign suspension, which slows down the circulation of the liquid and can make it difficult for the water pump to work. In addition, in places of strong heating, scale forms, which impairs the operation of the cooling system. If the antifreeze has turned brown, it means that active corrosion of the parts of the cooling system occurs. Coolant diluted with low-quality water should be replaced as soon as possible with mandatory flushing of the cooling system.

The procedure for replacing the coolant (carried out on a cold engine):
- remove the cover of the expansion tank and (or) the radiator;
- open the tap of the heater radiator so that there is no liquid left in it or in the supply hoses;
- unscrew the plugs in the radiator and the engine block, drain the old coolant into the substituted container, then install the drain plugs back;
- slowly pour new coolant through the expansion tank in a thin stream and close its cap;
- start the engine, warm it up, then stop it and after cooling, if necessary, add liquid to the desired level.

FLUSHING THE COOLING SYSTEM

Scheduled replacement of antifreeze it is enough to rinse the system once with distilled or, in extreme cases, well-boiled, melted or rain water.
When changing from water to antifreeze, replacing with brown or with signs of premature aging of the coolant, it is necessary to remove scale and corrosion products. This can only be done using special detergents in accordance with the instructions for them. Washes are aqueous solutions of weak acids - formic, oxalic, hydrochloric with the addition of corrosion inhibitors. Then, the remaining detergent composition should be removed by flushing the system at least once with distilled water.

The order of flushing the cooling system:
- drain the coolant and fill in the flushing fluid instead, in the same way as it is done when replacing the fluid;
- let the engine run for 20 to 60 minutes - the dirtier the drained coolant was, the more time is required to flush the system;
- stop the engine, drain the washing liquid, flush the system with distilled water and fill in fresh antifreeze.

The level of antifreeze in the expansion tank may become less than normal due to the evaporation of water from it or due to system leaks. In the first case, you need to add distilled water, and if it is not there, boiled water for 30 minutes. In case of leaks, add coolant, preferably of the same brand.
Purchase for topping up or replacing should be a coolant approved by the vehicle manufacturer, and it is better in stores, and not from a temporary tray on the street.
concentrates cannot be used in the engine cooling system - they consist of ethylene glycol with additives and a small amount of water, therefore they have a crystallization temperature of -11.5 ° C or slightly lower. They are intended only for the preparation of antifreeze by diluting the concentrate with distilled water. How much to add to get the desired freezing point of the coolant should be indicated in the instructions.
canister with antifreeze should inspire confidence in the manufacturer. A good product is rarely packaged carelessly. The container, as a rule, is closed with a cork with a disposable "ratchet", sometimes additionally protected by a "seal" - a label or tape. They should be intact, not glued, and the toothed ring on the cork should be in close contact with the neck. The tightness of the canister can be checked by turning it over or slightly squeezing it from the sides. If there is a leak or the canister is not elastic (the outgoing air hisses), it is better not to buy this. Translucent canisters are good because you can see their contents. Turbid coolant, especially with sediment, is not necessary to buy. If you shake the canister, the resulting foam should settle in about three seconds, for the concentrate - after five.
Label quality goods are usually well made and glued. The barcode, drawings, letters and numbers on it are clear, not forked or vague. The information is complete, not advertising, but mostly technical: the name of the manufacturer, its address and telephone number, annotation for the use of antifreeze, its boiling and freezing point, shelf life, batch number with date of manufacture, etc.

Attention! Ethylene glycol is poisonous and can penetrate the body even through the skin. It tastes sweet and should be kept out of the reach of children. Spilled ethylene glycol poses a certain danger to animals. When ingested, the lethal dose for humans can be as low as 35 cm3.

D-Service is an experienced service provider in the field of maintenance of air conditioning and heating systems. By contacting us, you will receive comprehensive service on favorable terms.

We make one-time and regular supplies of ethylene glycol in convenient packaging, we pack the chemical in convenient containers. The solution is used in the manufacture of coolants, coolants. When mixing the product with water, solutions are obtained that freeze at temperatures well below 0°C. The resulting substance, even when frozen, does not turn into a solid state, but becomes a loose slurry. Ethylene glycol in combination with water expands much less than ordinary ice. That is why its use prevents damage to radiators and pipes.

We offer the following types of heat transfer fluids based on ethylene glycol:

ETHYLENE GLYCOL 36 WATER SOLUTION - heat transfer fluid and anti-freeze coolant with anti-corrosion additives

ETHYLENE GLYCOL 40 AQUEOUS SOLUTION - heat transfer fluid and anti-freeze coolant with anti-corrosion additives

ETHYLENE GLYCOL 45 AQUEOUS SOLUTION - heat transfer fluid and anti-freeze coolant with anti-corrosion additives

ETHYLENE GLYCOL 50 AQUEOUS SOLUTION - heat transfer fluid and anti-freeze coolant with anti-corrosion additives

ETHYLENE GLYCOL 54 AQUEOUS SOLUTION - heat transfer fluid and anti-freeze coolant with anti-corrosion additives

ETHYLENE GLYCOL 65 AQUEOUS SOLUTION - heat transfer fluid and anti-freeze coolant with anti-corrosion additives

The D-Service company delivers ethylene glycol solution, which is necessary for the production of heat carriers used in various engineering systems and mechanisms. They are used for heat transfer and heat dissipation. In addition, the supply of antifreeze is carried out for enterprises engaged in the manufacture of a variety of synthetic fibers, solvents, polyurethanes, resins, explosives and fragrances. Long-term cooperation with leading companies in the chemical industry makes it possible to order the required amount of ethylene glycol solution at the lowest cost. That is why, turning to us, you get the opportunity to purchase a coolant at competitive prices. The high quality of ethylene glycol antifreeze is confirmed by certificates and accompanying documentation.

The solution is classified as toxic and hazardous to human health substances, it can not be inhaled for a long time or ingested. We supply ethylene glycol solution in containers intended for such transportation, and delivery is carried out using special vehicles. Customers don't have to worry about arranging transportation, everything is handled by D-Service.

By purchasing this substance, you will be able to contact us in the future regarding the disposal of the ethylene glycol solution. To perform such work, the organization must have the necessary permits and technical equipment; we have everything you need to carry out recycling procedures (experience, equipment, licenses).

Ethylene glycol antifreeze from an experienced supplier

Why are these solutions used in engineering systems?

• The purchase of ethylene glycol leads to a reduction in energy costs, as the costs of operating engineering equipment of various facilities are significantly reduced.
  destination.
• The company can turn off cooling systems in winter without having to drain
  coolant.
• The purchase of ethylene glycol is beneficial for owners of country houses, occasionally using a heating system.

If you need to order a solution for industrial needs or personal use, please contact the competent specialists of our company. The supply of ethylene glycol solution is carried out as soon as possible, the manager will recommend the required amount of chemical for specific operating conditions.

When ordering antifreeze, you get a quality product in the shortest possible time. Trust cooperation with experienced specialists, contact the manager and purchase ethylene glycol right now.

Name	Unit.	up to 500 kg	from 500 to 1k	from 1k to 2k	from 2k to 3k	from 3k to 4k	from 4k to 5k
	kg.	55	48	46	44	43	42
	PC.	68,5	61,5	59,5	57,5	56,5	55,5
	PC.	59	52	50	48	47	46
	PC.		60	58	56	55	54
	kg.	59	52	50	48	47	46
	PC.	72,5	65,5	63,5	61,5	60,5	59,5
	PC.	63	56	54	52	51	50
	PC.		64	62	60	59	58
	kg.	63	56	54	52	51	50
	PC.	76,5	69,5	67,5	65,5	64,5	63,5
	PC.	67	60	58	56	55	54
	PC.		68	66	64	63	62
	kg.	67	60	58	56	55	54
	PC.	80,5	73,5	71,5	69,5	68,5	67,5
	PC.	71	64	62	60	59	58
	PC.		72	70	68	67	66
	kg.	71	64	62	60	59	58
	PC.	84,5	77,5	75,5	73,5	72,5	71,5
	PC.	75	68	66	64	63	62
	PC.		76	74	72	71	70
	kg.	83	76	74	72	71	70
	PC.	96,5	89,5	87,5	85,5	84,5	83,5
	PC.	87	80	78	76	75	74
	PC.		88	86	84	83	82
	kg	107	100	98	96	95	94
	PC	120,5	113,5	111,5	109,5	108,5	107,5
	PC	111	104	102	100	99	98
	PC		112	110	108	107	106

Name	Unit.	from 5k to 6k	from 6k to 7k	from 7k to 8k	from 8k to 9k	from 9k to 10k
35% (-20 C) ethylene glycol solution in water	kg.	41	40	39	38	36
35% (-20 C) ethylene glycol solution in water (20 kg)	PC.	54,5	53,5	52,5	51,5	49,5
35% (-20 C) ethylene glycol solution in water (235 kg)	PC.	45	44	43	42	40
35% (-20 C) ethylene glycol solution in water (1050 kg)	PC.	53	52	51	50	48
40% (-25 C) ethylene glycol solution in water	kg.	45	44	43	42	40
40% (-25 C) ethylene glycol solution in water (20 kg)	PC.	58,5	57,5	56,5	55,5	53,5
40% (-25 C) ethylene glycol solution in water (235 kg)	PC.	49	48	47	46	44
40% (-25 C) ethylene glycol solution in water (1050 kg)	PC.	57	56	55	54	52
45% (-30 C) ethylene glycol solution in water	kg.	49	48	47	46	44
45% (-30 C) ethylene glycol solution in water (20 kg)	PC.	62,5	61,5	60,5	59,5	57,5
45% (-30 C) ethylene glycol solution in water (235 kg)	PC.	53	52	51	50	48
45% (-30 C) ethylene glycol solution in water (1050 kg)	PC.	61	60	59	58	56
50% (-35 C) ethylene glycol solution in water	kg.	53	52	51	50	48
50% (-35 C) ethylene glycol solution in water (20 kg)	PC.	66,5	65,5	64,5	63,5	61,5
50% (-35 C) ethylene glycol solution in water (235 kg)	PC.	57	56	55	54	52
50% (-35 C) ethylene glycol solution in water (1050 kg)	PC.	65	64	63	62	60
55% (-40 C) ethylene glycol solution in water	kg.	57	56	55	54	52
55% (-40 C) ethylene glycol solution in water (20 kg)	PC.	70,5	69,5	68,5	67,5	65,5
55% (-40 C) ethylene glycol solution in water (235 kg)	PC.	61	60	59	58	56
55% (-40 C) ethylene glycol solution in water (1050 kg)	PC.	69	68	67	66	64
70% (-65 C) ethylene glycol solution in water	kg.	69	68	67	66	64
70% (-65 C) ethylene glycol solution in water (20 kg)	PC.	82,5	81,5	80,5	79,5	77,5
70% (-65 C) ethylene glycol solution in water (235 kg)	PC.	73	72	71	70	59,95
70% (-65 C) ethylene glycol solution in water (1050 kg)	PC.	81	80	79	78	61,3
Ethylene glycol concentrate 99.8%	kg	93	92	91	90	88
Ethylene glycol concentrate 99.8% (20 kg)	PC	106,5	105,5	104,5	103,5	101,5
Ethylene glycol concentrate 99.8% (235 kg)	PC	97	96	95	94	92
Ethylene glycol concentrate 99.8% (1050 kg)	PC	105	104	103	102	100

Ethylene glycol (1,2-ethanediol, 1,2-dioxyethane, glycol) is the base substance for the manufacture of various antifreezes that are used in vehicle engine cooling systems.

Ethylene glycol is a toxic dihydric alcohol

The chemical formula of this simplest polyhydric alcohol is C2H6O2 (otherwise it can be written as follows - HO-CH2-CH2-OH). Ethylene glycol has a slightly sweet taste, odorless, in a purified state it looks like a slightly oily, colorless transparent liquid.

Since it is classified as a toxic compound (according to the generally accepted classification, it is the third hazard class), the ingress of this substance (in solutions and in pure form) into the human body should be avoided. The main chemical and physical properties of 1,2-dioxyethane:

• molar mass - 62.068 g / mol;
• optical refractive index - 1.4318;
• ignition temperature - 124 degrees (upper limit) and 112 degrees (lower limit);
• self-ignition temperature - 380 °C;
• freezing point (one hundred percent glycol) - 22 ° C;
• boiling point - 197.3 ° C;
• density - 11.113 g / cubic centimeter.

Vapors of the described dihydric alcohol flare up at the moment when its temperature reaches 120 degrees. We recall once again that 1,2-ethanediol has a 3rd hazard class. And this means that its maximum permissible concentration in the atmosphere can be no more than 5 milligrams / cubic meter. If ethylene glycol enters the human body, irreversible negative phenomena can develop in it, which can lead to death. With a single ingestion of 100 or more milliliters of glycol, a fatal outcome occurs.

Vapors of this compound are less toxic. Since ethylene glycol is characterized by a relatively low volatility index, a real danger to a person arises when he systematically inhales vapors of 1,2-ethanediol. The fact that there is a possibility of poisoning with vapors (or mists) of the compound in question is indicated by coughing and irritation of the mucous membrane. If a person is poisoned by glycol, they should take a drug containing 4-methylpyrazole (a powerful antidote that inhibits the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase), or ethanol (monohydric ethyl alcohol).

The use of glycol in various fields of technology

The low cost of this polyhydric alcohol, its special chemical and physical properties (density and others) have led to the fact that it is used very widely in various technical fields.

Any motorist knows what is the usual coolant for his "iron horse" called antifreeze - ethylene glycol 60% + water 40%. Such a mixture is characterized by a freezing point of -45 degrees, it is very difficult to find a more suitable liquid for automotive cooling systems, despite the high hazard class of 1,2-ethanediol.

In the automotive industry, ethylene glycol is also used as an excellent coolant. In addition, it is used in the following areas:

• organic synthesis: the chemical properties of glycol make it possible to protect isophorone and other carbonyl groups with its help, use alcohol as an effective solvent operating at elevated temperatures, and also as the main component of a special aviation fluid that reduces the phenomenon of flooding of combustible mixtures for aircraft;
• dissolution of coloring compounds;
• the manufacture of nitroglycol, a powerful explosive based on the compound we are describing;
• gas industry: glycol prevents the formation of methane hydrate on pipes, in addition, it absorbs excess moisture on pipelines.

Ethylene glycol has also been used as an effective cryoprotectant. It is used in the production of shoe polishes, as an important element in computer cooling liquids, in the manufacture of 1,4-dioxin and various types of capacitors.

Some nuances of glycol production

In the late 1850s, the French chemist Wurtz obtained ethylene glycol from its diacetate, and a little later by hydration of ethylene oxide. But at that time, the new substance did not find practical application anywhere. It was only in the 1910s that it began to be used in the manufacture of explosive compounds. The density of glycol, its other physical properties and the cheapness of production led to the fact that they replaced the glycerin that was used before.

The special properties of 1,2-ethanediol were appreciated by the Americans. It was they who established its industrial production in the mid-1920s at a specially built and equipped plant in West Virginia. In subsequent years, glycol was used by almost all the companies known at that time that were engaged in the production of dynamite. At present, the compound of interest to us, which has the third hazard class, is manufactured using the ethylene oxide hydration technology. There are two options for its production:

• with the participation of phosphoric or sulfuric acid (up to 0.5 percent) at a temperature of 50 to 100 ° C and a pressure of one atmosphere;
• at a temperature of about 200 ° C and a pressure of ten atmospheres.

As a result of the hydration reaction, up to 90 percent pure 1,2-dioxyethane, a certain amount of polymer homologues and triethylene glycol are formed. The second compound is added to hydraulic and, it is used in industrial air cooling systems, it is used to make preparations for disinfection, as well as plasticizers.

The most important requirements of GOST 19710 for finished glycol

Since 1984, GOST 19710 has been in force, which establishes requirements for what properties (freezing point, density, and so on) should have ethylene glycol used in automotive enterprises and in other sectors of the economy, where various compositions are produced on its basis.

According to GOST 19710, glycol (as a liquid) can be of two types: first grade and premium. The share (mass) of water in glycol of the first grade should be up to 0.5%, the highest - up to 0.1%, iron - up to 0.00005 and 0.00001%, acids (in terms of acetic acid) - up to 0.005 and 0 .0006%. The residue after calcination of the finished product cannot be more than 0.002 and 0.001%.

Color of 1,2-dioxyethane according to GOST 19710 (according to the Hazen scale):

• after boiling in an acid solution (hydrochloric) - 20 units for products of the highest grade (the first grade is not standardized by color);
• in the standard condition - 5 (highest grade) and 20 units (first grade).

The State Standard 19710 puts forward special requirements for the production process of the described simplest alcohol:

• only sealed apparatus and equipment is used;
• the production room must be equipped with ventilation recommended for working with compounds that are assigned the third hazard class;
• If glycol gets on the equipment or the ground, it should be washed off immediately with plenty of water;
• personnel working in the workshop for the production of 1,2-ethanediol are provided with a BKF model gas mask or other respiratory protection device that complies with GOST 12.4.034;
• glycol fires are extinguished with inert gases, special foam formulations, and water mist.

Finished products according to GOST 19710 are checked by various methods. For example, the mass fraction of dihydric alcohol and diethylene glycol is determined by the method of isothermal gas chromatography using the technology of the so-called "internal standard". In this case, scales for laboratory research (GOST 24104), a glass or steel gas chromatographic column and a chromatograph with an ionization-type detector, a measuring ruler, a microsyringe, an optical magnifier (GOST 25706), an evaporating cup and other tools are used.

The color of the glycol is set according to standard 29131 using a stopwatch, a special cylinder, a conical flask, hydrochloric acid, a refrigeration unit. The mass fraction of iron is determined according to State Standard 10555 using the method of sulfacyl photometry, the residue after calcination is determined according to State Standard 27184 (by evaporating the resulting compound in a platinum or quartz container). But the mass fraction of water is determined by electrometric or visual titration using Fisher's reagent in burettes with a capacity of 10 or 3 cubic centimeters.

Antifreeze - glycol based coolant

Antifreeze based on the simplest multivolume alcohol is used in modern vehicles to cool their engines. Its main component is ethylene glycol (there are formulations with propylene glycol as the main component). The additives are distilled water and special additives that give antifreeze fluorescent, anti-cavitation, anti-corrosion, anti-foam properties.

The main characteristic of antifreezes is a low freezing point. In addition, they have a low rate of expansion upon freezing (compared to 1.5-3 percent less than ordinary water). At the same time, this special glycol-based coolant is characterized by a high boiling point, which improves the operation of the vehicle in the hot season.

In general, a glycol-water based engine coolant has the following advantages:

• the absence of harmful additives (amines, various nitrites that adversely affect the nature of phosphates);
• the ability to select the required concentration of antifreeze for high-quality protection against freezing;
• stable parameters and properties throughout the entire service life;
• compatibility with those parts of the auto cooling system that are made of plastic or rubber;
• high antifoam performance.

Among other things, modern antifreezes provide anti-corrosion protection of metal alloys and metals present in an internal combustion engine due to the presence of special inhibitory additives in them.

Today, the market for antifreeze for car radiators is filled with products based on ethylene glycol. This substance has a number of positive qualities in operation. The durability of the cooling system, as well as the operation of the engine, depend on the correct choice of means for the cooling system.

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze has a low freezing point, which depends on the concentration of the substance. The liquid inside the cooling system begins to crystallize in the range from 0 to -70ºС. When choosing high-quality antifreeze, it is necessary to take into account the operating conditions of the machine. In the summer, it should cool the engine as efficiently as possible. In winter, the liquid should not freeze even in severe frosts.

Types of antifreeze

Today there are two main types of antifreeze - carbosilicate and silicate substances. The second type is used in old-style cars. The most famous representative of this class of funds is antifreeze. Silicate antifreezes have a number of disadvantages, so they are not used for foreign cars.

Silica-free antifreeze based on ethylene glycol is preferable for foreign new cars. The additives that make up the product, during the operation of the car, settle exclusively in areas where corrosion forms. This was made possible by the inclusion of organic components in the composition of the product. In this case, the engine cooling is complete.

Silicate varieties based on ethylene glycol cover the entire inner surface of the tubes with inorganic components. They effectively prevent the formation of corrosion, but at the same time reduce the cooling capacity of the system.

Composition of antifreeze

Ethylene glycol-based antifreezes have a specific composition. Their main characteristics depend on this. In its pure form, ethylene glycol looks like an oily substance. Its freezing point is -13ºС, and its boiling point is +197ºС. This material is quite dense. Ethylene glycol is a strong food poison. This substance is toxic, especially after the exhaustion of its resource. Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze waste, the composition of which has been contaminated with heavy metals during operation, must be properly disposed of.

When mixed, it can significantly decrease (up to -70ºС at a ratio of water and ethylene glycol 1:2). Organic and inorganic components can be used as additives. The first option is preferable. today there are 4 types: carboxylate, traditional, organic and hybrid. Due to the difference in the components that make up the antifreeze, different brands of these products cannot be mixed. Otherwise, they will conflict with each other, reducing the effectiveness of the substance.

Antifreeze color

Initially, ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, the color of which can be seen in production, looks like a transparent substance. It has only a specific smell. Regardless of the brand, antifreeze has no color. Dyes are added to identify its quality. Among drivers and auto mechanics, there is a classification of the quality of the product adopted by them, depending on its color. There are 3 groups of antifreezes.

• Class G11 includes blue and green facilities. These are the cheapest consumables. They include ethylene glycol and silicate additives. The service life of such antifreezes is about 30 thousand km.
• The class G12 includes red and pink types of substances. They are of higher quality. They include ethylene glycol and organic additives. The service life of such funds can reach 150-200 thousand km. However, their cost is much higher.
• There is also a third class - G13. In addition to the components listed in the previous section, it contains propylene glycol. The color of such funds is most often characterized by orange and yellow hues.

Labeling system

Each ethylene glycol-based antifreeze for aluminum radiators, as well as loaded cooling systems, contains dyes. They do not affect the technical characteristics of the substance in any way. The choice of one or another color depends on the whim of the manufacturer. There is no generally accepted labeling standard, as well as the addition of dyes.

The markings presented above, which are most often taken into account by drivers and auto mechanics, were used earlier in the production of German-made VW coolant antifreezes. These funds are very popular. However, even he himself has already changed his specifications. Today, this well-known manufacturer makes 3 main classes of organic-based antifreeze. Their marking has the prefix G12++, G12+++ and G13. Therefore, before buying a product for a cooling system, it is more correct to pay attention to the recommendations of the vehicle manufacturer, as well as the composition of the consumable material itself. There is no single marking for all antifreezes.

The main properties of antifreeze

In the course of their operation, antifreezes exhibit a whole range of qualities. They are regulated by the norms and approvals of car manufacturers. It should be noted that ethylene glycol is a toxic substance. With the development of its resource, this indicator increases. There are rules on how to dispose of waste antifreeze based on ethylene glycol. They are credited with various negative properties. Therefore, when it is necessary to contact a special organization that will properly dispose of it.

It is also important to take into account the foaming properties of antifreeze. For domestically produced products, this figure is 30 cm³, and for imported products - 150 cm³. The wettability of antifreeze is 2 times greater than that of water. Therefore, they are able to seep even into very thin cracks. This explains their ability to flow out even in the presence of microcracks.

Overview of popular brands

In our country, various brands of antifreeze based on ethylene glycol are used. The most popular include Felix, Alaska, Sintek, Long Life, Nord. They are characterized by an optimal ratio of price and quality.

The presented antifreezes are designed for the harsh conditions of our climate. Also, the developed line of products allows the driver to choose the required product for the engine of his car. The presented means effectively resist the formation of corrosion, and also provide good cooling properties of the radiator.

Products popular today in our country effectively protect engine systems from the formation of deposits, especially in the water pump, engine compartment and supply channels.

Currently, manufacturers offer mainly two types of liquid for cooling car systems - based on acids and salts. For a more visual difference, one of them is painted red - based on acid additives, the second - green using salt additives, based on monoethylene glycol.

What is ethylene glycol

Ethylene glycol is a slightly oily, colorless liquid with a sweetish taste and odorless. It was invented in 1859 by a French chemist Wurz. The benefit of ethylene glycol is that it significantly lowers the freezing point of water, so this substance is widely used in the production of coolant.

Moreover, even if ethylene glycol antifreeze and freezes, it will not turn into solid ice that will expand, but will resemble some kind of loose mass that cannot damage the pipes and radiator. Glycol-based concentrated antifreeze has a very high freezing point of -13 degrees, therefore.

How and with what to dilute ethylene glycol-based antifreeze

This procedure will help keep the coolant at a lower freezing point, resulting in a solution of 30% to 70%, depending on the required concentration, but of course it is more economical to use more water.

It is advisable to use water purified from solid salts and other impurities. Using a hydrometer or aerometer, the density is measured, which determines the ratio of ethylene glycol and water in antifreeze.

Pros and Cons of Ethylene Glycol Antifreeze

Very often, the choice falls on ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, since its additives have antifoaming, anticorrosive and stabilizing properties, respectively, prolonging the life of the car's filling. harmless to humans, except for its ingestion. Also, antifreeze should not contain nitrates, otherwise interacting with amines, they can release toxic substances into the air.

To restore the liquid level, it is better to use distilled water, and not another. They are often incompatible with each other, and their additives, when in contact with each other, react and lose their properties.