Racing car coolant formula ideas

In summary, the conversation is about creating an engine coolant for track motor sports that cannot contain any glycols. The suggestion is to use a "water wetter" and add a surfactant like Tydol X-100, an anti-foaming agent, and an aluminum corrosion inhibitor. The person is looking for advice on how to formulate a better product, but mentions that using water wetter is permitted in SCCA racing due to a no antifreeze rule.
  • #1
mahall
1
0
TL;DR Summary
Need some ideas on a racing coolant formula.
Hey guys!
So, I’m working on an engine coolant for track motor sports that can’t contain any glycols.
I think a simple “water wetter” will work.
A surfactant such as Tydol X-100 come to mind along with an anti foaming agent and aluminum corrosion inhibitor.
I know there are commercial products for this available but would really like to formulate some thing better.
Thanks for any help you can give me.
 
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  • #3
Water wetter is all that is permitted in SCCA racing as they have a no antifreeze rule. Works great. Not knowing the engine you have, may be other legal ways to make it run cooler.
 

FAQ: Racing car coolant formula ideas

What are the key components of an effective racing car coolant formula?

An effective racing car coolant formula typically includes a mixture of water, ethylene glycol or propylene glycol, corrosion inhibitors, and sometimes surfactants. Water provides excellent heat transfer properties, while glycols lower the freezing point and raise the boiling point. Corrosion inhibitors protect engine components from rust and corrosion, and surfactants can improve the overall efficiency of the coolant.

How does a racing car coolant differ from regular car coolant?

Racing car coolants are specifically formulated to handle the extreme conditions experienced during high-performance racing. They often have higher boiling points, better thermal conductivity, and more robust corrosion inhibitors compared to regular car coolants. Additionally, racing coolants may be designed to work without the use of a pressurized cooling system, which can be a requirement in some racing leagues.

Can I use water alone as a coolant in my racing car?

While water has excellent heat transfer properties, it is not recommended to use it alone as a coolant in a racing car. Pure water lacks the necessary corrosion inhibitors and can lead to rust and corrosion of engine components. It also has a relatively low boiling point and can freeze, causing damage to the engine. A proper racing coolant mixture is essential for optimal performance and engine protection.

Are there any environmentally friendly racing car coolant options?

Yes, there are environmentally friendly racing car coolants available. These typically use propylene glycol instead of ethylene glycol, as propylene glycol is less toxic and biodegradable. Additionally, some formulations include organic acid technology (OAT) for corrosion inhibition, which is more environmentally friendly compared to traditional inhibitors. Always check for products that are specifically labeled as environmentally friendly or non-toxic.

How often should I change the coolant in my racing car?

The frequency of coolant changes in a racing car can vary based on the type of coolant used and the racing conditions. Generally, it is recommended to change the coolant at least once per racing season or after a certain number of racing hours, as specified by the coolant manufacturer. Regular coolant analysis can also help determine the optimal change intervals by monitoring the condition of the coolant and the presence of contaminants.

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