"Fifty percent of all engine downtime is associated with cooling system problems." Caterpillar Inc.

"40% of engine problems can be traced back to an improperly functioning cooling system." Cummins Filtration (Monitor)

Coolant analysis provides a powerful means of detecting serious problems caused by overheating that can spread through engines, transmissions and hydraulic systems. Cooling systems are subject to pitting, corrosion, cavitation, erosion and electrolysis, and are formulated to provide protective measures to combat these problems. Fluid Life’s Basic Testing program will determine if the existing cooling formulation is providing adequate protection.

The reasons for conducting routine coolant system analysis are straightforward:

• severe operating environments
• coolant loss
• preventive maintenance

Mechanical consequences of poor coolant monitoring and maintenance are:

• thermal expansion of pistons leading to scoring and cracking
• combustion problems that lead to piston and bearing damage
• increased heat, which can increase the rate of engine lubricant oxidation
• rotting of seals, liners, gaskets, and dampers, which can contribute to leaks
  and contamination

Coolant Analysis Testing - Basic.pdf

Coolant Analysis Testing - Advanced.pdf

Coolant Analysis Training Seminar - Now Available

Benefits of Coolant Analysis:

Benefits of Coolant Analysis.pdf

Coolant Maintenance Strategy.pdf

Advanced coolant testing can provide a more complete picture of the internal condition of a cooling system and greater predictive benefit for maintenance purposes.

Components of Engine Coolant:

Ethylene/Propylene Glycol - Serves a double purpose in an engine by being "antifreeze" in cold climates and raising the boiling point of coolant to prevent "overheating" in high operating temperatures. When the proper proportion of water is added to glycol these cooling and antifreezing properties are enhanced and maximized.

Water - While possessing intrinsic cooling properties, on its own water has a relatively low boiling point and freezing point and does not meet engine standards as an antifreeze or a coolant. Water also causes corrosion within a cooling system.

Coolant Additives - Coolant usually includes additives to inhibit corrosion and maximize the life of the coolant. When purchased seperately ethylene/propylene glycol contains these additives. If additives are added to the coolant mixture separately we refer to them as supplemental coolant additives (SCA).

Premixes - Coolant is often sold mixed in the proper ratio of glycol to water as a convenience to consumers and does not require the user to measure the two separately to achieve maximum cooling or antifreezing properties.

Analysis Tests:

Preliminary Observations

Identifies macro sources of coolant contamination and degradation. Contaminants entering the cooling system from other parts of the engine can often be detected by visual means or by odour detection. These contaminants can cause serious damage to seals and foaming of the coolant can impede the coolant's ability to transfer heat.

pH
The measure of acidity or alkalinity of water. This is measured to ensure coolant remains in the range of 8.5 to 10.5. Water becomes acidic (8.5) or less around 82 degrees C (180 degrees F) and begins to react with iron components. Alkaline solutions (10.5) or more, react with copper and aluminum.

Ion Chromatography
Determines the level of chlorides and other anions in parts per million(PPM).
Sources are degradation by-products or additives.

Potential Detectables

• Chlorides -- inorganic chemical compounds which contain chlorine harmful to your coolant system.
• Formates -- various chemicals "formed" by breakdown of compounds within the coolant.
• Glycolates -- chemicals formed as a result of the breakdown of glycol.
• Nitrites -- a breakdown inhibitor for iron and steel and helps prevent liner cavitation.
• Nitrates -- inhibitors to prevent corrosion in solder and aluminum in older coolant chemistries.
• Phosphate -- often part of a coolant additive package.
• Sulphates -- salt or ester of sulfuric acid harmful to your cooling system.
• Molybdates -- part of a coolant additive package.

Due to interferences with some coolant formulations and chemistry,
some of the above anions may not be reportable.

Boil Point
The temperature at which a coolant will boil at sea level. A refractometer is used to determine the percent of glycol in the coolant to determine its boiling point. The ratio of water to glycol will determine what is optimal for the coolant. System temperatures should never be at or near the boiling point.

Freeze Point
The temperature at which a coolant will freeze at sea level. A refractometer is used to determine the percent of glycol in the coolant to determine its freeze point. The ratio of water to glycol will determine what is optimal for maximum "antifreeze" properties. Cooling system and engine component failures may occur if coolant temperatures near or reach the freeze point.

Optional/Additional Testing:

Total Dissolved Solids (ppm)
"Dissolved solids" refers to any minerals, salts, metals, cations or anions dissolved in water. Solids can indicate the level of contaminants in the coolant. Excessive dissolved solids will cause coolant to foam and increase potential for pump failures. TDS levels can increase greatly if: hard water is used, inappropriate makeup additives are used or there is an over treatment with SCAs or Extenders. Commonly, TDS has been determined using the conductivity value times a given factor determined specifically for the coolant type and glycol percentage. This factor can vary significantly, especially with the newer long life coolants, and therefore, general determination of the TDS using a conductivity meter is no longer recommended.

Contact your Regional Account Manager for more information.