Coolant Analysis

29/01/2009

Collant Analysis

The Importance of Coolant

Everyone understands the importance of oil, but another key fluid in Caterpillar engines, machine design and maintenance is the engine coolant.

How critical is it?
An estimated 50% of all engine failures or poor performance incidents are associated with cooling system problems. For this reason, Caterpillar developed the S•O•S Coolant Analysis program. S•O•S Coolant Analysis is recommended for cooling systems, regardless of type of coolant used. This includes Caterpillar Extended Life Coolant (ELC) systems or standard coolant systems, including Caterpillar Diesel Engine Antifreeze/Coolant (DEAC).

Coolant requirements for diesel engines are more severe than for automotive engines.
Diesel engines are designed to operate at higher temperatures and higher energy levels than engines in cars and small trucks. Today’s heavy diesels produce a tremendous amount of power from a small package. Additionally, most of today’s Caterpillar products rely on the engine cooling system to absorb heat from the engine, transmission, and hydraulic oils. These factors increase the requirements and demands placed on the cooling system.

Standard analysis includes:
-Copper, Iron, Lead, Aluminium, Tin (wear debris)
-Sodium, Potassium, Boron, Molybdenum (additives)
-Calcium, Magnesium, Silicon (contamination)
-pH
-Conductivity
-Glycol concentration
-Nitrite level
-Foaming tendency
-Visual and Olfactory examination