Coolant - how to ensure a comfortable temperature regime for the engine? What is better to use antifreeze or antifreeze.

The antifreeze and antifreeze used in the cooling system are subject to increased requirements, which makes it possible to ensure the trouble-free operation of the car. Many car owners are thinking about what should be used to cool the engine, antifreeze or antifreeze. Let's talk about the difference between them, and also recommend you which chemicals to use in your car.

First, let's talk about how the car's engine cooling system works. During operation, the engine heats up, and without proper cooling, the motor, in fact, will not be able to work. Inside the engine there are appropriate channels for supplying coolant, which allows you to reduce the temperature of the motor. The cooling system also includes a water pump, thermostat, expansion tank, radiator and fan. In fact, the liquid in the cooling system moves along a closed circuit, initially entering the engine, after which it is sent to the radiator, where it is cooled and fed back into the engine.

Higher requirements are imposed on the liquid used for cooling. So, for example, such antifreeze or antifreeze must have a low freezing point, which allows the machine to be used in winter time of the year. At the same time, such liquids must be resistant to corrosion and retain their properties for a long time.

Plain water should not be poured into the cooling system, since the salts contained in the water will quickly precipitate, which will lead to clogging of the radiator cells, and rust will appear in the engine itself, which will disable the engine. It is necessary to use high-quality antifreeze and antifreeze, changing the coolant in a timely manner, which will ensure trouble-free operation of the motor and the absence of any problems in the operation of the cooling system.

In fact, antifreeze is the international name for all coolants that are used in engines. internal combustion. Antifreeze is the same antifreeze domestic production. In fact, antifreeze is no worse and not better than antifreeze and other coolants. Antifreeze was developed in 1971, and its name is an abbreviation of the Department of Technology of Organic Synthesis, where the formula for such a coolant was created.

Many domestic motorists in the old fashioned way call antifreeze antifreeze, meaning by this concept domestic antifreeze. Many manufacturers of such auto chemicals use the name popular with motorists. However, in essence, both antifreeze and antifreeze are one and the same.

On sale today you can find mineral antifreezes, which are indicated by the class G 11, as well as organic compounds, which received the abbreviation G 12. Antifreeze can be attributed to mineral antifreezes, and the service life of such a coolant is usually two years from the start of operation or 50,000 kilometers. And here organic antifreezes made using modern high-quality chemistry and are able to serve about 5 years or 250 thousand kilometers.

Also on sale you can find lobrid antifreezes, which are made with various additives and combine the advantages of mineral and organic compounds. Lobrid antifreezes can be used in various types of internal combustion engines, so this coolant can be used even with modern engines.

Antifreeze And antifreeze are distinguished according to their certain parameters:

Lubricating properties.

anti-corrosion characteristics.

Freezing point indicator.

Boiling temperature.

To simplify the choice, manufacturers make colored coolants, which is ensured through the use of various dyes. Based on such a color indication, it will be possible to choose one or another model of such a coolant.

We choose high-quality antifreeze

The range of choices available today somewhat complicates the purchase of such coolants, especially if the car owner is poorly versed in the features of his car. We can say that the choice of such a coolant can be made based on its color.

Red antifreeze and antifreeze can be poured into car radiator which is made of brass and copper.

Green antifreeze used in a system where the radiator is made using aluminum and aluminum alloys.

Regular antifreeze can be easily poured into domestic car where simple cast iron motors are used.

You can also choose one or another type of antifreeze and antifreeze according to the recommendations of the automaker. In the technical documentation for your car, you can find all the necessary information on the approval of the coolant and, based on the information received in the store, buy the antifreeze that suits you.

Is it possible to mix antifreeze with antifreeze?

During the operation of the car, it may be necessary to add antifreeze and antifreeze to the cooling system. Many car owners are concerned about the question of whether it is possible to mix antifreeze with antifreeze or such coolants that differ in their color.

It should be said that despite the unity of GOSTs and the requirements for such coolants, many of the manufacturers use a variety of additives and additives that change the properties and characteristics of such a coolant. Accordingly, when mixing antifreeze and antifreeze, their individual components can react with each other, which leads to both a loss performance characteristics such coolant, and precipitation. Such sediment can clog the radiator cells, which subsequently leads to problems with the operation of the car.

That is why experts do not recommend mixing antifreeze with antifreeze, as well as such a coolant from various manufacturers. If you need to add antifreeze or antifreeze, then it is better to purchase such auto chemicals with a small margin, which will subsequently solve any difficulties with the operation of your car.

Conclusion

Antifreeze and antifreeze are popular with domestic cars owners of a variety of coolant. It is believed that antifreeze made domestic producers, many car owners call antifreeze. Whereas, in fact, antifreeze and antifreeze are one and the same, which allows them to be used in engines modern cars mobiles. Just remember that foreign manufacturers This antifreeze uses high quality additives and an organic coolant base, which not only extends the service life, but also provides excellent performance.

Antifreeze or antifreeze The difference between these substances lies in the technology of their production. The first composition is a kind of the second coolant. TOSOL is an abbreviation, the first three letters of which denote manufacturing technology, and the last two are used in chemistry.

1 Features of the compositions

The difference between antifreeze and antifreeze lies in their composition. The first liquid consists of ethylene glycol and water. Special additives are added to it, which are based on salts of inorganic acids. differs from antifreeze in that it additionally includes the following substances:

• alcohol;
• glycerol;
• propylene glycol.

The additives that make up the antifreeze increase its anti-corrosion properties. They are created using salts of organic acids. Auto mechanics know how to distinguish the compositions in question. They advise drivers to pay attention to distinctive characteristics these liquids. With the help of the information received, the car owner will be able to find out which antifreeze or antifreeze is better.

Antifreeze contributes to the formation of a protective layer on the surface. Its thickness is 0.5 mm. The disadvantages of such protection, experts attribute a relatively low heat transfer, which leads to a decrease in the life of the motor and an increase in fuel consumption. Antifreeze differs from antifreeze in the duration of its functions - 30-40 thousand kilometers. After the specified period, the liquid is replaced with a new analogue.

2 Chemical composition

Since antifreeze consists of inorganic acids, therefore, its use leads to the appearance of sediment in the radiator. The liquid cools the motor of the car until its temperature exceeds 105 degrees. Antifreeze contributes to the formation of a special protective layer in areas with corrosion. There is no such plaque on the remaining elements. This technology ensures optimum heat dissipation. Antifreeze is recommended to be used within 250 thousand kilometers. The liquid boils at a temperature of 115 degrees.

Otherwise, the car's engine will quickly fail, while the resulting liquid will foam. Antifreeze, unlike antifreeze, has the following advantages:

1. Protection of aluminum at high temperature.
2. Long service life of the water pump.
3. High quality and no formation of gels or deposits. Traditional counterparts have negative property gel formation.
4. No aggressiveness to plastic, silicone and other similar materials.
5. There are no blockages or deposits in the radiator.
6. Environmental friendliness.
7. Stability at high temperatures ah - modern motors are designed for high loads during their operation. The maximum operating temperature reaches 135 degrees, and the pressure is 3 atmospheres. The beneficial properties of a traditional liquid are lost when a temperature of 105 degrees is reached. In this case, the decay of inhibitors is observed, the protection of the motor is reduced. Carboxylate antifreezes do not lose their stability when the maximum temperature is reached.

3 Rules for self-replacement

Auto mechanics are advised to fill in vehicle quality antifreeze or antifreeze. It is recommended that you familiarize yourself with existing brands coolant (Mobile Advanced, Shell, Motul).

Before, or vice versa, you need to flush the cooling system. For this, they pour old fluid from the tank, radiator and cylinder block. Previously, the car is placed at an angle. Then distilled water with a small amount of cleaning mixture is poured into the system. The plugs are closed, the motor and the stove are turned on until the liquid runs through all the tubes. The spent mixture is drained. The described procedure is repeated several times.

The car is placed on an inclined surface. The front end goes up. The machine is filled with a full volume of antifreeze. The radiator cap must be open. The motor is started. This technology promotes the forcing air locks from within. Then the engine is turned off, the liquid is added to the top, the lid closes.

Before buying a coolant, drivers should take into account that the antifreeze concentrate is diluted according to the proportions indicated on the package. The replacement of the coolant is carried out after studying the manual for its operation. The following types of coolants can be poured into the vehicle:

1. Traditional - additives, which are based on salts of inorganic acids.
2. Carboxylate - additives from salts of organic acids.
3. Hybrid - additives based on carboxylic acid salts and silicate additives.

Lubricants made according to the standard or carboxylate method are in great demand among car owners.

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In this article, we will tell you what is automotive antifreeze how it differs from antifreeze and what is its service life. Effect on engine overheating.

What is the difference?

Antifreeze- the name of the antifreeze developed for VAZ cars. Trademark"Tosol" was not registered, so it is used by many domestic manufacturers of coolants. The name arose like this: the first 3 letters were taken from the name of the department where it was made: "Technology of Organic Synthesis". And the ending "ol" came from the chemical industry and indicates that the products belong to alcohols.

As a result, TOSOL appeared, which was intended for the first Zhiguli cars. Over time, the name from the abbreviation (TOSOL) turned into a household name - this is how motorists began to call any coolants. Do not fall into the misconception that domestic cars antifreeze is intended, and for foreign cars - antifreeze. Tosol is one of the antifreezes.

What are they made of?

antifreeze- coolants for the car cooling system that do not freeze at low temperatures. They consist of dihydric alcohol - ethylene glycol (65%), water (35%) and anti-corrosion additives, which chemists call inhibitors - corrosion retarders. Manufacturers give them proper names("Tosol", "Lena") or indicate the temperature of their freezing (OJ-40).

The basis- glycol-water mixture, on which depend: the ability of antifreeze not to freeze at low temperatures ah, its specific heat capacity, viscosity and impact on rubber. Most ethylene glycol based coolants are common. But him water solution aggressive to materials of parts of the cooling system (steel, cast iron, aluminum, copper, brass, solder).

Therefore, a complex of additives is added to the coolant: anti-corrosion (inhibitors), anti-foaming and stabilizing.

There are many standards for coolants: in Russia it is GOST 28084-89 (which is obsolete), in the USA - ASTM D3306, D4340, D4656 (they are constantly updated), in England - BS 6580. They determine the characteristics of antifreezes: density, crystallization start temperature , corrosive effect on metals, effect on rubber, resistance in hard water - and regulate tests for their verification. But he does not specify the composition and concentration of additives, as well as the miscibility of liquids. This, as well as the color of antifreeze (blue or yellow), is chosen by the manufacturer.

GOSTs regulating the service life of antifreeze and conditions resource tests- No. In practice, manufacturers use their technical specifications (TS), entering into them necessary information. Therefore, coolants often appear in stores, freezing already at -25 ° C and boiling at 90 ° C.

Except common standards, many machine manufacturers apply their specifications with additional requirements. For example, the system of standards Volkswagen Group, which normalizes antifreezes by marking G11, G12 and G13. Many chemical companies and representatives retail began to use their compact names to classify the coolant.

What is the service life?

During operation, the coolant ages - the concentration of inhibitors in it gradually decreases, heat transfer decreases, the tendency to foaming increases, and unprotected metals corrode intensively. The resource depends on the quality of antifreeze and the mileage of the car.

The term for replacing antifreeze is prescribed by the car factory or manufacturer. Usually it is changed every 2-3 years. On modern cars, the replacement period is more than 5 years or 250,000 km. For example, Volkswagen follows this schedule for new cars. And AvtoVAZ indicates a replacement after 75,000 km or 3 years, when using such antifreeze. Next, we list the signs when the coolant ages earlier, while:

• a jelly-like mass is formed inside the neck of the expansion tank, at slight negative temperatures (minus 10-15 ° C), cloudiness is noticeable in it (sometimes as a light cloud), a precipitate precipitates, and the radiator electric fan is triggered more often than before. When at least one of these signs appears, antifreeze is needed change as soon as possible;
• the color becomes reddish-brown. This means that the parts of the system are already corroding. This coolant is needed replace immediately no matter how long she served.

Can you mix?

Domestic coolants produced by different manufacturers one by one specifications, mixing is allowed. However, if the specification numbers are not the same, antifreezes are often incompatible. Components of additive packages can react with each other and lose beneficial features. That's why in a hopeless situation, it is better to add water, and then replace all the liquid in system.

What if the color is different? For example, the old yellow color, and you are going to pour red antifreeze. Is it possible in this case to mix? Read more in this article.

Effect on engine overheating

The boiling point of antifreeze is at least 105°C. This is if it meets all standards and GOSTs. It happens that manufacturers try to save on products and instead of expensive ethylene glycol they add cheaper glycerin, which costs a penny. However, glycerin-based antifreeze becomes viscous, as a result, the motor overheats.

So that it does not freeze at -25 ° C, manufacturers add methanol, which significantly reduces the freezing point. The boiling point of methanol is only 65.5°C. And at higher temperatures, methanol begins to actively evaporate and reduces the boiling point of the coolant to 85-90°C instead of the prescribed 105-108°C.

Leaks of low-quality antifreeze lead not only to overheating of the engine, but also to a fire. Get methanol, for example, on a hot collector - and open burning may occur.

Not always, the addition of glycerin to the composition indicates low-quality antifreeze. For example, Volkswagen in the production of coolants under the G13 marking, it adds a small percentage (up to 20% in concentrate) of glycerin to the composition. This is done not for the sake of economy, but for the sake of the environment. After all, glycerin by-product in the production of biodiesel, which means it needs to be put somewhere - for example, used in antifreeze.

We advise you to purchase antifreeze at branded points of sale or through official suppliers in online stores. If you bought a fake, then in the winter it will lead to bad start engine in cold weather, and in summer - to a fire in the engine compartment.

Most motorists do not hesitate to pour any coolant they like into the radiator. However, a number of them are still interested in topics and antifreeze. But even more interested this group car owners the question is, what is the difference between these coolants and what is the difference between antifreeze and antifreeze? What do they choose in Russia? In our country, drivers are especially popular among coolants. The difference between these liquids lies in the final effect on the cooling system and on the engine in general. But in the main functions, these products have the same value.

Coolant antifreeze

Tosol is the first representative of antifreeze. That is, antifreeze is a liquid that is designed to cool the engine in summer period thus preventing it from overheating. In winter, thanks to additives, it does not freeze, allowing the engine to start at set temperatures.

The composition, as a rule, is made from ethylene glycol, in the process of creation, a certain amount of additives is added to it. At the same time, depending on the manufacturer, the set of additives differs significantly. Antifreeze additives are designed to protect the engine from corrosion, as well as clean the system from foreign substances. Antifreeze, the characteristics of which can be known to many drivers, has been produced since ancient times, in our country. What does it consist of? The composition of antifreeze and antifreeze may include various elements. For example, antifreeze consists of a certain amount of inorganic acids. These are nitrates, silicates, nitrites, phosphates and amines. For example, if antifreeze has letter marking, then it means that it is designed for cars. The available figures indicate the temperature at which antifreeze begins to freeze. It is worth remembering that the density of the liquid should be 1.08 per 1 cm3.

Replacement terms

This question is most relevant for novice drivers. It is worth noting that after about 30-40 thousand kilometers, antifreeze begins to lose its properties, so fluid replacement is necessary once or twice a year. In addition to mileage, fluid replacement is affected by its color. For example, the appearance of reddishness indicates the need urgent replacement. This is also evidenced by the appearance of extraneous pungent odors from the expansion tank. A normal liquid should be without a pungent odor, and a good antifreeze is always slippery and oily to the touch.

If it is being replaced, then before filling new fluid flush the engine cooling system with special means. The cleaning agent is followed by rinsing with water. It is advisable to flush several times, and only after that you need to fill in new antifreeze.

Choice

Liquid (antifreeze) will not be very cheap, which is why when buying, first of all, you need to pay attention to the price for a 5-liter canister. In addition, the product Low quality can be sold in unmarked cans.

To protect yourself from a fake, you need to rely on some factors:

• Antifreeze is bought directly for a specific brand, since the engine life may be reduced due to the wrong fluid.
• You need to buy liquid in large specialized stores.
• The manufacturer's contact information must be indicated on the packaging.
• If you check antifreeze with litmus, then on paper (if it quality product) should be slightly greenish.

It is worth remembering that if distilled water is regularly added to antifreeze, after a year it is necessary to replace the fluid in the cooling system.

What is antifreeze?

It presents itself with a set of different properties. In its composition, antifreeze also includes ethylene glycol, however, along with this substance, additional chemicals began to be added to the liquid. The resulting product got its name. The product is of foreign origin and has the characteristic name "antifreeze".

Characteristics of foreign liquid

The characteristic features of antifreeze are high boiling point and low temperature tolerance. Antifreeze boils at about 180 degrees. Frost resistance is determined by the presence of additives, because not all regions require a liquid that perfectly cools the engine in the heat and quickly gains operating temperature in the cold. On average, antifreeze freezes at temperatures below -45 degrees. It is worth noting that when freezing, antifreeze can only expand by a maximum of 1.5%, which is a very acceptable result.

If you look at the composition from a chemical point of view, then antifreeze is a liquid based on distilled water and ethylene glycol, to which alcohols and glycerin were subsequently added. How to distinguish antifreeze from antifreeze? It is currently possible to purchase antifreeze in various colors. Antifreeze is sold only in blue.

Buying antifreeze

Currently, the coolant market is filled with various ones. You can buy any. However, when buying antifreeze, you must rely on the most important rule: you should only purchase antifreeze of the marking recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. Otherwise, problems with the car can begin very quickly, up to the engine overheating.

It is worth noting that at present, some manufacturers have begun to use methanol instead of ethylene glycol, which destroys aluminum alloys. Therefore, it is necessary to buy goods in specialized centers, asking to provide an appropriate certificate when buying.

Antifreeze replacement

Antifreeze manufacturers have stated that it is possible to operate a vehicle up to a mileage of 100 thousand kilometers. It is worth considering the fact that in our country the engine is directly affected climatic conditions. That is why it is best to produce after 40 thousand kilometers. Many experts will ask car owners to change the fluid every year of operation, even if the mileage is minimal.

Features of antifreeze

When operating the vehicle and using antifreeze in the cooling system, it is necessary to clearly know its marking. This knowledge is necessary first of all in order to add exactly the same antifreeze if necessary. Manufacturers do not recommend mixing antifreezes of different colors, as this may affect their composition and lead to the destruction of some engine components. The composition of antifreeze and antifreeze differs not only in additives. It is distinguished by the dyes used.

As a result, having considered both liquids, many motorists will now ask themselves the question "what to choose: antifreeze or antifreeze." The difference between liquids will be discussed next.

Differences

At first glance, these are absolutely identical products. But the difference between antifreeze and antifreeze lies precisely in the additives used in the production. In addition, the color can tell the motorist about the characteristics of a particular liquid. The quality of the service life directly depends on the components used. For example, antifreeze and antifreeze contain additives. The main difference is that inorganics are used for domestic liquids, and organic substances are used for antifreeze. It is because of this that the boiling point of liquids is slightly different from each other.

It is worth considering the main features of the engine when using antifreeze or antifreeze. If antifreeze is poured into the cooling system, then an anti-corrosion crust forms in the entire system. As a result, there is an impaired heat transfer from the metal. The main result of using bad antifreeze over time, the engine will fail. At the same time, during operation, an increased fuel consumption is observed. As mentioned earlier, antifreeze quickly loses its basic properties, and also with prolonged exposure to high temperatures, the entire composition of additives deteriorates. If the engine temperature is constantly kept in the range of 105 degrees or more, then the destruction of the unit when using antifreeze will occur much faster. If we talk about antifreeze, then given liquid more durable. At the same time, an anti-corrosion layer will form only in the most problematic areas in the cooling system, which will undoubtedly extend the service life. power unit. In terms of replacement time, antifreeze is also inferior to a foreign product. As a result, the car owner himself chooses what to fill in - antifreeze or antifreeze. The difference, as a rule, lies not only in the additives, but also in the price.

Conclusion

It is worth noting the fact that many developed countries have already abandoned the use of antifreeze. First of all, this is due to the fact that the production technology is very outdated and behind the times. As a result, the currently produced antifreeze becomes ineffective in protecting the engine from overheating, corrosion, and other cases.

In the manufacture of antifreeze, more than modern technologies, thanks to which it actively protects the engine from corrosion. Antifreeze, compared to antifreeze, is much more expensive, and for many, price is a decisive factor. However, saving on coolant can play a trick on the driver.

When buying, do not pay attention to what color antifreeze or antifreeze. The difference between liquids is their specifications Oh. Which, by the way, is now known to many motorists. Thanks to this article, every car owner who is slightly versed in cars will be able to understand how to distinguish antifreeze from antifreeze.

On the shelves in the auto shop there is a rainbow of different bottles: dozens of markings, brands and approvals.

How to find out what exactly your car needs: antifreeze or antifreeze, red or green, Mobil or Polar explorer?

If the instructions for your car have a clear specification: for example, Ford WSS-M97B51-A1, aka BASF Glysantin G05, aka Mazda 0000-77-507E-02, then there is no problem. Look for a cherished jar (canister) with a similar tolerance, and do not bother with color, the question “what is filled in, what to fill in?”, And taking a taste test: sweet or not.

Why is a branded (from a car manufacturer) coolant used as an example, or a product of a well-known chemical concern? Because the package contains main characteristic for the buyer: approval of the car manufacturer for specific car(as in the instructions for maintenance). This means that this antifreeze or antifreeze can be poured into the radiator, and at least it will cool well, as a maximum it will not harm your car.

What is the difference between antifreeze and antifreeze, and why is it necessary to adhere to the factory specification?

Let's figure out what coolant is and what it is for.

Since an internal combustion engine generates a lot of heat during operation, it must be removed to the atmosphere. At low capacities (moped, small car, lawn mower), it is enough to cut the radiator fins on the cylinder head and provide good airflow. When the intensity of the load increases, direct air flow is no longer enough. It is necessary to remove heat using a coolant (for example, water), which in turn is cooled by the same air, but in a separate radiator.

This is how the cooling system works modern car. The so-called cooling jackets are located around the cylinders. Water pump provides circulation (constant renewal) of liquid through the radiator, which is intensively blown by air from the oncoming flow and fan.

Which fluid is the most effective in cooling the engine? This question is usually transformed into: "what is better than antifreeze or antifreeze?". We will answer the second part of the question later. The main secret of the cooling system is that ordinary water is the best coolant. More precisely, not just water from a river, or from a tap, but distilled. Many people remember footage from old Soviet films: the engine of an old GAZ-51 boiled, the driver with a bucket runs to the nearest river, and the problem is solved.

For cast iron cylinder blocks and thick-walled radiators, this is acceptable, except for operation in winter period. Water at sub-zero temperature it will simply freeze and “break” the radiator, or even the cylinder head. Remember the "water drained" signs on the radiator?

On modern motors normal water cannot be used. Why?

• Salts and calcium dissolved in water leave a "fur coat" on the walls of the cooling jackets. This layer disrupts heat transfer;
• Freezing water in winter. It is difficult to imagine a car owner who, in the parking lot near the office, pours water onto the asphalt, and then pours it back before driving home. Yes, and the device of the cooling system in modern cars is more complicated, just unscrewing the plug is not enough;
• Internal boiling (so-called cavitation). Small air bubbles gradually destroy the metal, especially the impeller of the pump suffers.

In addition, the coolant (which is still 50% distillate) contains many additives. How are they different and why are they needed?

The chemical composition of antifreeze (antifreeze)

Water is still a solvent for the concentrate. The basis of any coolant is chemical elements.

• Ordinary mineral salt lowers the freezing point. However, it is a corrosion catalyst, so it is practically not used in motors;
• ethylene glycol, or dihydric alcohol. Excellent resistance to freezing, but promotes corrosion. Moreover, it is precisely when diluted with water that aggressive qualities appear: aluminum parts become covered with shells, and in the end the radiator flows. In the worst case, the aluminum cylinder head corrodes. In addition, ethylene glycol is far from the cheapest product;
• Glycerol. It resists freezing well, and is quite cheap to manufacture, but there are also serious problem: water-glycerin solutions are viscous, so the circulation of liquid through the radiator cells is impossible. The mixture is diluted with methanol - monohydric poisonous alcohol, but this component is unstable: at 90 ℃ it boils away, when it enters engine compartment may ignite. In addition, it is aggressive towards aluminum. Water-glycerin antifreezes (antifreezes) are common among Russian manufacturers. The cost is extremely low, the packaging, as a rule, lacks the specification of automakers;
• Inhibitors. These are mineral or organic additives that protect the metal from corrosion. They make up from 3% to 10% by weight of the coolant, and in fact determine its compatibility with the types of engines. Same manufacturer specification.

Organic or inorganic, what's the difference?

Mineral Inhibitors simply cover the metal walls of the system with a thin layer protective film. It can be uneven, and corrosion is still manifested, though it is pitting.

Such "chemistry" works effectively, the aggressive effect of antifreeze is practically reduced to nothing. However, the film does not conduct heat well; as a result, it is not removed by the liquid from the heating zone. Over time, heat transfer becomes worse and worse, and the motor overheats, and this is fraught with increased wear details, more early date oil changes, increased fuel consumption.

The chemical composition of such inhibitors: nitrates, borates, silicates, phosphates, amino acids.

Organic Inhibitors created on the basis of salts of carboxylic acids. Carboxylates do not "stick" to the metal, so there are no obstacles to heat transfer. Molecules of these substances block only point foci of corrosion. They act as if targeted, leaving most of the area free from the film.

Inhibitors are based on carbonates - organic acids that are neutral to metals. The cost is significantly higher than that of the "mineral water".

hybrid additives contain carboxylates (there are usually more of them), and mineral supplements. By using the right combination, coolant manufacturers make up for shortcomings various types additives without diminishing the positive effect.

And finally the answer to main question: what is the difference between antifreeze or antifreeze? In fact, the name does not carry information about the composition or compatibility with different types engine. Reasoning that antifreeze is poured into carbureted engines, and the injector works exclusively on antifreeze, are groundless.

The history of the appearance of coolant names:

As we noted earlier, initially it was used to cool motors. ordinary water from a nearby pond. Then more technologically advanced internal combustion engines appeared, respectively, there was a need for high-quality coolant. Foreign manufacturers united all coolant options under the definition of "antifreeze". That is, non-freezing.

Simultaneously Soviet government instructed scientists to develop a similar drug for domestic cars (so as not to buy expensive liquid abroad). One of the chemical research institutes promptly developed (or simply copied) the technology. Foreign and domestic liquids were absolutely identical in properties and composition. domestic development the department “Technology of Organic Synthesis” was named the abbreviation of this division; "TOS". We added a suffix used in the names of alcohols (ethanol, methanol), we got TOSOL. This name has become as common as "copier". Despite the fact that from year to year the composition of domestic antifreeze and foreign coolants changed, common names entrenched.

The simplest compositions based on glycerin or ethylene glycol with mineral additives are commonly called antifreezes. Although abroad there are antifreeze with the same components. Both names can be found on the packages, fundamental difference No.

How to determine if the coolant is suitable for your car or not?

Serious manufacturers certify their technical fluids at car factories. On the same principle as engine oils, so you can always check the match against the directories. For example, the compatibility table for BASF antifreezes (antifreezes):

This is where the trick lies. There is no universal specification "for all Fords" or for any diesel "VW". Each car is designed for a certain type of antifreeze, and it is strongly not recommended to mix them. When silicate and carboxylate additives come into contact, dense clots are formed. They clog the radiator cells, disrupting the circulation of water.

Some alloys inside the motor or radiator can actively corrode precisely under the influence of a certain mineral additive, so look for the only correct answer in the instructions for your car.

Specifications G11, G12, G12 +, etc. for Volkswagen cannot be used in the selection of antifreeze for KIA. Some car owners simply buy the same color fluid as in expansion tank. The color has nothing to do with the composition of the coolant. This is a dye - marking.

Outcome:

How to find out what type of antifreeze was filled in if the color cannot be determined by eye? The answer is unequivocal: look for information from the car manufacturer and buy the “right” fluid. The brand doesn't matter. The main thing is the specification for your car. When replacing, flush the cooling system with distilled water.

If you have any questions - leave them in the comments below the article. We or our visitors will be happy to answer them.