list of parts in Air cooled oil cooler
These are the essential parts responsible for transferring heat from the oil to the air.
- Core / Fin Block: The heart of the cooler. It consists of:
- Tubes: Flattened or round tubes that the hot oil flows through. They are typically made of aluminum (for lightweight and efficiency) or copper.
- Fins: Thin sheets of metal (almost always aluminum) layered between the tubes. Their large surface area absorbs heat from the tubes and efficiently transfers it to the passing air.
- Headers / Tanks: Larger diameter tubes or castings on the sides or ends of the core. They distribute the oil from the inlet to all the smaller tubes and collect it from the tubes to the outlet. They are often made of aluminum or brass.
Enclosure & Air Flow Components
These parts manage the flow of air over the core.
- Fan / Impeller: Forces air through the fin stack. It can be:
- Electric Fan: Powered by a separate motor; common on transmissions, power units, and aftermarket engine oil coolers.
- Hydraulic Motor Fan: Powered by the system’s own hydraulic oil; common on heavy equipment.
- Engine-Driven Fan: Pulls air through the cooler by being mounted directly to the engine’s fan hub.
- Fan Shroud: A duct that directs the fan’s airflow efficiently through the entire core, preventing air from taking the path of least resistance around the edges.
- Fan Motor: Powers an electric or hydraulic fan. (Not applicable for engine-driven fans).
- Mounting Brackets: Attach the core and/or the fan assembly to the vehicle, machine, or frame.
Fittings & Connections
These parts integrate the cooler into the oil system.
- Oil Inlet Port: The connection where hot oil enters the cooler (attaches to one header).
- Oil Outlet Port: The connection where cooled oil returns to the system (attaches to the other header).
- Bypass Valve (Thermostatic or Pressure-Actuated): A critical internal or external valve. It allows cold, viscous oil to bypass the core until it reaches operating temperature. This prevents excessive pressure drop and allows the oil to warm up quickly.
- Mounting Bosses / Lugs: Integrated points on the headers or core for attaching the cooler.
Optional & Auxiliary Components
- Temperature Switch / Sensor: Often screwed into a port in the header to monitor oil temperature and control the electric fan (turning it on/off as needed).
- Pressure Relief Valve: A safety feature to protect the core from extreme pressure spikes.
- Protective Screen / Guard: A mesh or wire screen placed over the air inlet or outlet side to prevent large debris from damaging the delicate fins.
- Anodized Coating: A hard, protective layer on aluminum cores (often black) that improves corrosion resistance and increases heat radiation.