Antifreeze is a liquid chemical added to a vehicle’s cooling system (or sometimes other systems) to lower the freezing point and raise the boiling point of the fluid it’s mixed with—usually water.
Composition
Most antifreeze products are based on:
· Ethylene glycol (EG) or
· Propylene glycol (PG)
These compounds prevent the coolant from freezing in cold weather and from boiling over in hot conditions.
Main Purposes of Antifreeze
1. Prevents freezing: Keeps the coolant from turning to ice in low temperatures, which could crack the engine block.
2. Prevents overheating: Raises the boiling point, so the engine doesn’t overheat in summer.
3. Prevents corrosion: Contains additives to protect metal parts (like the radiator, water pump, and engine) from rust and corrosion.
4. Lubricates: Helps lubricate seals and moving parts in the cooling system.
Typical Mixture in Antifreeze
A common mixture is 50% antifreeze and 50% water, which protects against freezing down to about -34°F (-37°C) and boiling up to around 265°F (129°C) under pressure.
Safety Note
· Ethylene glycol is toxic to humans and animals—it has a sweet taste but can be deadly if ingested.
· Propylene glycol is less toxic and is used in “environmentally friendly” or “pet-safe” antifreeze formulations.
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