What is the advantage of using pressure cap on the radiator?
What is the advantage of using pressure cap on the radiator?
A radiator cap keeps the cooling system pressured which raises the boiling point. For every pound of pressure in a closed cooling system you raise the boiling point by three degrees. At sea level, water boils at 212 degrees. By adding 16 pounds of pressure to the system you will raise the boiling point to 260 degrees.
What should the pressure radiator cap rating be?
Remember, none of the above running temperatures have anything to do with the cap rating. They are simply conditions of the cooling systems capability, the ambient air temperature, and air flow. Often customers will report their system boiling over at temperatures of 220 or lower and as explained above this isn’t possible.
What’s the boiling point of a 15 psi radiator?
A system with 15 psi cap will add 45 degrees for a final boiling point of 268 degrees. The real purpose of pressurizing is to give drivers a higher operating zone in case of extreme conditions. For example, let’s say your classic car normally runs at 180-190 and boiling is not a concern. Then on a hot day the temperature goes to 200-210.
What happens when you increase the pressure on the radiator?
The water will expand and create pressure. The boiling point of the water increases three degrees for every 1 psi the pressure goes up. If the pressure goes up 15 psi we add 45 degrees.
Do you know the importance of radiator cap pressure?
Most car owners understand the importance of their radiators, but most do not know how important the radiator cap pressure ratings are. You need to have the correct radiator cap if you want to get the best performance from your vehicle and preserve the cooling system.
Where can I find the pressure on my radiator?
Check the pressure on the cap with a radiator cap pressure tester. You can find new pressure caps for your radiator in the local auto supply store. Also, online retailers can provide caps but be sure that you know the correct rating for your vehicle before you buy a radiator cap.
What happens if there is too much pressure on the radiator?
If the cap that you are using for your radiator is not sufficient, it can result in problems with your cooling system. The cap acts as a pressure relief valve. Too much pressure can cause damage, while not enough pressure can cause the engine to overheat. The top portion of the radiator cap will list the pressure rating.
Where can I find the radiator cap rating?
You can find the rating in your owner’s manual, or by contacting the manufacturer. A radiator cap may seem like a simple thing, something that doesn’t warrant much attention when your car has so many other more expensive parts.
