An air cooling system is a heat dispersal system that does not use a water-based coolant. It is used in many types of engines. However, it is best suited for small engines and automobiles. Air-cooled engines are more compact, cheaper to manufacture, and have fewer maintenance needs. They also perform well in extreme climates.
Typically, an air-cooled system uses thin metal fins placed around the cylinders. This increases the contact area of the metal and improves the rate at which it dissipates heat. The fins are usually about 12 mm wide and are spaced at approximately 2 mm. Depending on the design of the duct, they may be fixed to the cylinders or moved by a belt.
Air is pumped through the system by a compressor. The air flows through semicircular ducts that are fitted with baffles. The air is then directed through the exhaust side of the cylinders. After passing through the cylinder barrels, it is driven out by a fan.
If there is excessive heat in the cylinders, the air is recirculated to absorb the heat. Air cooler To prevent the coolant from freezing, the system must withstand extreme temperatures. Hence, the water in the cylinders is often replaced with an antifreeze solution.
A modern radiator is designed with a pressure cap with valves that open at a prescribed pressure. This is used in conjunction with a thermostat to control the temperature of the air. Some radiators have a bypass hose to allow the coolant to return directly to the engine. In a typical system, the air recirculates, and the heated fluid is then returned to the radiator through a rubber hose.
When the temperature of the coolant rises to a certain level, the thermostat actuates a larger valve in the air outlet duct. When this happens, the air pressure will decrease, and the coolant will start to flow out.
The air-cooled system can be installed inside or outside a room. Since the cooling agent is usually air, it is relatively easy to install. However, the hoses and pipes must be filtered, and moisture separators are required.
An air-cooled system is ideal for small, single-cylinder engines, such as those found in motorcycles, scooters, and mopeds. Because the fan is smaller and less expensive than a water-cooling system, it is also an option for small industrial engines. Also, it is possible to use an electric fan in place of a gas-powered fan.
Unlike water-cooled systems, an air-cooled engine is light and does not require water jackets to protect the cylinders from frost damage. However, because an air-cooled engine can disperse hot air, it is not usually the preferred option for dispersing heat energy.
Air-cooled engines are used in many types of American rear-engine cars. They are also used in some German petrol engines. Several small industrial engines are also designed to run on air cooling.
