6 VN 53 | JANUARY – MARCH 2019
THE MINOR DIFFERENCES
Not all radiators are built the same. NRF speaks to VITAL NEWS about
the difference between brazed and mechanically assembled radiators.
With the diverse choices available to the
aftermarket today, choosing a radiator isn’t
as easy as it seems. The quality, performance
and durability of a radiator hinges on the
materials used and technology adapted for the
part. fins provide the heat transfer from the tubes
into the air stream. This results in a constant
engine temperature and prevents overheating.
There are two primary types of radiators
available in the aftermarket today – brazed
and mechanically assembled.
UNDERSTANDING THE BASICS Brazed radiators, identified by flattened tubes
and soldered connections between tubes and
fins have high cooling performance due to
the larger surface area. The soldering creates
a metal connection that creates optimal heat
transfer. All NRF radiators are soldered
according to the Nocolok ® brazing technology.
Subjected to temperatures that average more
than 1,500°C, engine components need to be
effectively cooled to avoid overheating. At the
same time, temperatures need to be carefully
maintained to avoid fluctuations in fuel
economy and emission levels. This is where
the radiator comes in.
KNOW THE DIFFERENCE
A radiator consists of tubes where hot coolant
passes through, with fins in between. The
A brazed radiator
A mechanically assembled radiator
Mechanically assembled radiators can easily
be recognised by the round tubes. As these
radiators are not soldered, there are no fixed
connections between the tubes and fins. As
Fitting a replacement: not all radiators are the same
the tubes are inserted throughout the fins
pack, there will be a tiny gap between the
tubes and fins which result in a less efficient
heat transfer than a brazed radiator.
ALWAYS MATCH OR IMPROVE
REPLACEMENTS
Replacement radiators should always
match, or be an improvement to the original
specifications set by vehicle manufacturers.
Hence, if a vehicle was originally fitted with
a brazed radiator, the replacement should
be a brazed radiator as well. Whilst a brazed
radiator is usually a little more expensive
in comparison to a mechanically assembled
radiator, it is a safer and more efficient
solution.