Tosol is the most famous domestic antifreeze for car cooling systems. When choosing this substance, it is necessary to evaluate a number of its parameters. First of all, this is the quality of the product presented for sale. The correct operation of the car's systems and their durability will depend on this.
The density of antifreeze is one of the most important characteristics that allows the buyer to evaluate performance. After all, the compliance of antifreeze with modern requirements is a guarantee of the correct operation of all mechanisms.
General characteristics and composition
To understand how to measure the density of antifreeze and antifreeze, you need to understand their characteristics and definition. The presented substance is needed to cool the motor in the summer and protect it from mechanical damage in winter.
The name of antifreeze is based on an abbreviation. TOS is the technology of organic synthesis. The last two letters of the name indicate that the substance belongs to the group of alcohols, which, as you know, end in "ol".
The basis of antifreeze is glycol ether. Contains about 10 differentadditives. Thanks to this, antifreeze is not affected by frost or heat, does not boil or foam. Special additives eliminate the impact on the materials of mechanisms, so that they become not subject to corrosion. Antifreeze can be stored and used for a long time also due to its special composition.
What characterizes density?
The density of antifreeze can tell a lot about the state of this substance during operation. Therefore, it needs to be checked regularly. This indicator is influenced by several main factors. First of all, this is the composition and formulation of antifreeze production. Each manufacturer uses a specific technology in the manufacture of its refrigerant.
The second important factor is the quantity and set of additives. These components improve the performance of antifreeze and additionally protect systems and mechanisms from premature wear. In the production process, technologists use a certain set of these additional components. They are well balanced. Some of them are not compatible and depend on the operating conditions of the equipment.
The last important factor that affects the density of antifreeze is the amount of monoethylene glycol in it. All these features affect the heat capacity and thermal conductivity. If the density of antifreeze changes, it can lead to sad consequences.
How to measure the density yourself?
Considering how to check the density of antifreeze, you should pay attention to the simplest ways. Speci althe equipment helps to make measurements for any liquid. This device is called a hydrometer. It is easy to apply. In this case, only a few simple steps are performed.
Initially open the hood cover. Next, you should find the expansion tank, in which the antifreeze is located. Its lid opens. The hydrometer takes the required amount of antifreeze. To do this, the pipette is lowered into the refrigerant and the substance is drawn into the flask. The float should be free to balance.
On the hydrometer scale, it is necessary to measure the concentration of antifreeze. Next, the result obtained is compared with the nominal value specified by the manufacturer. In some cases, the density may be lower or higher than stated. This can also be affected by the amount of water in the solution.
Measurement result
Now you know how to check the density of antifreeze with a hydrometer, now you need to understand the result.
The density index is affected by the water used to dilute antifreeze in the factory or at home. With an increase in its content in the solution, the freezing point of the substance becomes higher, and the cooling characteristics deteriorate in the summer.
If the density of the substance during the measurement is too low, it means that the antifreeze contains a large amount of water. At the same time, the operating temperature range for antifreeze narrows. This is a negative trend.
Increased concentration indicates a decrease in the properties of cooling and lubrication of mechanisms. Because of this, they wear out quickly. Therefore, it is necessary to compare the nominal density value declared on the package with the readings of the hydrometer. If necessary, it is corrected.
Normative value
One of the most popular types of the presented substance is antifreeze brand A-40 or A-40M. This refrigerant is used in a relatively warm climate, where the temperature in winter does not fall below -38°C. It is widely believed among motorists in our country that the density of A-40 antifreeze is 1.075 g / cm³. At the same time, the mixture contains about 44% water and 56% ethylene glycol (or higher).
The density indicator depends on the temperature at which the measurement was made. The standards establish the allowable rate of this value at the level of 1.065-1.085 g/cm³. At the same time, the ambient temperature should be at the level of +20°С.
If the number obtained during the measurements does not correspond to this indicator, it can be leveled. To do this, a little old antifreeze is drained and either water or antifreeze concentrate is added to the general mixture.
Lifetime
Knowing what density of antifreeze currently affects car systems, as well as what is the standard value of this indicator, you can avoid premature repairs or breakdowns of the car. Antifreeze wears out over time. Its service life depends on the quality of the antifreeze itself and the mileage of the car.
If the density of the mixture is low, there is a large amount ofwater. It impairs the effect of additives and provokes the formation of corrosion. This leads to the rapid destruction of the surfaces of the mechanisms. In this case, the liquid acquires a rusty tint. Regardless of the age of such a substance, it should be replaced immediately with new antifreeze.
How to change antifreeze
If you have measured the density of antifreeze, evaluated its visual characteristics and determined the need to replace this substance, a special procedure must be carried out. The engine is warmed up for 5 minutes. The heater valve in the passenger compartment must be open. After the motor stops, the old antifreeze is drained, and clean water is poured instead. You can use a special detergent for this. It is used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Through the drain plug, which is located in the radiator, water is removed from the system. Washing is done until the liquid becomes clear. After that, you can fill in a new antifreeze.
Having studied what the density of antifreeze is, you can understand the importance of measuring it. This indicator will allow you to assess the correct operation of the entire system and prevent its breakdown.
