Experimental Analysis and Evaluation of Thermostat Effects on Engine Cooling System

Abstract

Thermostat as a part of engine cooling system has a significant role in the shortening warm-up time and regulating the engine in proper temperature to approach optimal performance. Whereas, there is not adequate research on this part of the cooling system and its responsibility. Considering this gap and also being used in large scale, this study is intended to evaluate performance and reflex of the wax type thermostat in different engine working conditions. In this regard, performance of engine cooling system was investigated in various engine speeds and loads to reveal positive and negative influences of thermostat on engine cooling efficiency and engine performance. According to observed results, warm-up period and fuel consumption decrease by using a thermostat. On the other hand, however, the temperature oscillation of coolant fluid passing through engine increases sharply, which causes a disruption in the regulating engine temperature and also a possibility of the fluid boiling rises in some regions of the engine that increases the risk of damage in the engine parts. Engine temperature, fuel consumption, warm-up duration and emissions were provided and compared in two operation modes, with and without thermostat.