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To keep machinery from overheating, most engines and heavy equipment rely on radiators and similar types of heat exchangers. These systems circulate fluids to cool them down and transfer heat out of the equipment. Everything from a woodchipper to a tractor or forklift uses similar principles to prevent heat damage to the system. Learn more about these components below. 

Basic Radiator Mechanics

Heat naturally tends to flow from hotter objects and areas toward colder areas. If you put a hot item in a cold environment, the environment will be heated slightly, lowering the temperature of the object. The rate of heat exchange depends on the difference in temperature, the volumes of both objects, and the materials involved.

RadiatorHow Radiator Principles Are Applied

In a radiator, two fluids at different temperatures are allowed to flow through adjacent areas so that one cools the other without the two mixing. One of the fluids is pumped past areas of machinery which generate heat and friction, while the other consists of cooler outside air or exchanges heat with the outside. Because of the natural motion of heat, the hotter fluid will be cooled by the exchange and the cooler fluid will heat up. For example, hot water might be allowed to flow through a pipe which runs through a chamber filled with air, heating the air and cooling the water. The continuous motion of the two fluids and the natural exchange of energy works to pump heat from the machine into the air around it.

 

If your industrial radiator is damaged or isn’t working correctly, American Radiator in Saint Louis, MO, will fix it. They service a wide range of heavy equipment, including big rigs, tractors, and excavation vehicles. With 65 years of combined experience, their expert team is quick and accurate at diagnosing and repairing problems. To get started, call (314) 725-3357 or send a message online.

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