What is a car thermostat assembly
The automotive thermostat assembly (also known as the thermostat assembly) is an automatic temperature control device that regulates the flow path of the coolant and adjusts the engine's heat dissipation capacity through the principle of thermal expansion and contraction.
Core function
Automatically open or close the radiator channels based on the coolant temperature to switch the coolant circulation path
Youdaoplaceholder0 low-temperature stage : Close the radiator channels, and the coolant circulates small within the engine to quickly heat up.
Youdaoplaceholder0 High-temperature stage : Open the radiator channels, and the coolant enters the large circulation to enhance heat dissipation.
Structural type
The common type is the wax thermostat , which contains a temperature-sensing element (such as paraffin) inside and drives the opening and closing of the valve through thermal expansion and contraction.
The automotive thermostat assembly (also known as the thermostat) is a key component for controlling the circulation of coolant. Its main function is to automatically adjust the flow direction of coolant based on the engine temperature to ensure that the engine operates at an appropriate temperature.
Working principle
The thermostat assembly senses the temperature of the coolant through temperature-sensing elements (such as waxy elements). When the temperature drops below the set value, the valve closes and the coolant directly circulates to the engine, achieving a small cycle. When the temperature exceeds the set value, the valve opens and the coolant enters the radiator for a large circulation, reducing the water temperature through heat dissipation.
Core function
Youdaoplaceholder0 Temperature regulation : By controlling the coolant circulation path, it prevents the engine from overheating or getting too cold, maintaining the water temperature within a reasonable range of 70-90℃.
Youdaoplaceholder0 Energy conservation and emission reduction : Optimize engine operating conditions, reduce fuel consumption and exhaust emissions, and improve fuel economy.
Youdaoplaceholder0 Extend service life : Prevent the engine from being damaged by high temperatures, while reducing mechanical wear and enhancing overall durability.
If the vehicle shows abnormal water temperature (such as frequent high-temperature alarms), it may be caused by a malfunction of the temperature controller, which needs to be repaired or replaced in a timely manner.
The core working principle of the automotive thermostat assembly (i.e., the thermostat) is to automatically adjust the flow path of the coolant through the temperature-sensing component, thereby controlling the heat dissipation intensity of the engine. Its working principle is mainly based on the structure of the wax thermostat and is specifically divided into three stages:
Low-temperature stage (below 70℃
When starting up, the coolant temperature is relatively low. The thermostat closes the path to the radiator, and the coolant directly enters the water pump and returns to the engine water jacket for a small circulation. At this point, the paraffin remains solid, the main valve is closed, and the auxiliary valve is open, accelerating the engine's temperature rise.
Medium-temperature stage (70-80℃
When the temperature rises to 70-80℃, the paraffin begins to soften and expand, the main valve gradually opens, and the auxiliary valve closes. The coolant begins to circulate small through the radiator, which not only heats up quickly but also avoids overheating.
High-temperature stage (above 80℃
When the temperature exceeds 80℃, the paraffin wax completely melts, the main valve is fully open, and the auxiliary valve is closed. All the coolant enters the radiator for a large circulation, reducing the water temperature through heat dissipation.
Key features
The heating rate is increased: The heating rate of an engine without a thermostat is only four times that of an engine with a thermostat, and its fuel consumption is also higher.
Temperature control range: Common domestic car models (such as Jetta, Santana, etc.) usually turn on at 85℃ and fully open at 105℃.
Damage to the car thermostat assembly can lead to problems such as engine overheating, increased fuel consumption, and reduced heating effect, and it needs to be repaired in a timely manner.
Fault manifestation
Youdaoplaceholder0 Engine overheating : A damaged thermostat may cause the coolant to fail to circulate normally, resulting in an excessively high engine temperature, which affects performance and shortens the service life.
Youdaoplaceholder0 Increased fuel consumption : The engine operates at a lower efficiency when overheated and requires more fuel to keep running.
Youdaoplaceholder0 Abnormal heating air : It affects the normal operation of the heating air system. In winter, the temperature inside the vehicle rises slowly and the comfort level decreases.
Youdaoplaceholder0 Increased wear : High temperatures cause the lubrication effect of engine components to deteriorate, accelerating mechanical wear.
Cause analysis
Youdaoplaceholder0 Component aging : Long-term high-temperature environment causes the external plastic material of the thermostat to age.
Youdaoplaceholder0 Seal failure : The sealing ring is damaged or paraffin leaks, causing the temperature controller to fail to open and close normally.
Youdaoplaceholder0 Mechanical failure : The push rod or main valve is stuck or damaged, causing the thermostat to be unable to regulate the coolant circulation.
Emergency response
If abnormal water temperature is detected during driving, the thermostat can be temporarily removed (professional operation is required), but this method is only suitable for short-distance emergencies and should be repaired as soon as possible.
It is recommended to regularly inspect the cooling system. If any abnormality is found, the thermostat assembly should be replaced in time to avoid greater losses.
If you want to know more, keep reading the other articles on this site!
Please call us if you need such products.
Zhuo Meng Shanghai Auto Co., Ltd. is committed to selling MG&MAXUS auto parts welcome to buy.