What is Lube Oil Cooler?
A Lube Oil Cooler (also known as an engine oil cooler or lubricating oil cooler) is a heat exchanger designed to remove excess heat from engine oil, transmission fluid, or other lubricants in machinery.
Its primary job is to maintain the oil within its optimal temperature range, ensuring it can perform its critical functions effectively.
Why is it Necessary? (The Problem it Solves)
Oil is the lifeblood of any engine or gearbox. However, in operation, it gets extremely hot due to:
- Friction: Heat generated by moving parts (pistons, bearings, gears).
- Combustion: In engines, oil splashed on the underside of the pistons absorbs intense heat from the combustion process.
If the oil gets too hot, it breaks down (thermal degradation), which leads to:
- Reduced Lubricity: It becomes thinner and loses its ability to form a protective film, leading to increased wear and metal-on-metal contact.
- Sludge and Varnish Formation: The oil oxidizes, creating harmful deposits that can clog oil passages and filters.
- Additive Depletion: The special chemicals that enhance the oil’s performance are destroyed.
The lube oil cooler prevents this by constantly regulating the oil temperature.