What is an EGR cool? What are the symptoms for EGR radiator failure How to identify EGR cooler failure ?….
What is EGR Cooler Radator?
The EGR cooler reduces the temperature in the exhaust gases. EGR returns exhaust gases from the engine to reduce combustion temperatures and NOx (nitric oxygen / nitrogen oxide) emissions. Diesel engines can heat up the gas circulated by EGR systems. EGR coolers are often used by diesel engines to reduce the temperature in the exhaust gases before entering the engine.
In an ordinary internal combustion engine, internal temperatures inside the combustion chamber during operation can reach up to 1,370°C (2,500 degrees Fahrenheit). This is when NOx emissions start to increase and overall performance suffers. This stage can lead to premature combustion of the fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber. In extreme cases, this can cause engine damage and reduce performance.
The EGR cooler lowers the temperature of exhaust gases before they are sent back to the engine. It is a radiator made of metal that cools the exhaust gases using thin passages and fins. It doesn’t have moving parts so it is more likely to crack. It is a simple heat transferr that converts heat using engine coolant or external air. The radiator is subject to constant thermal stress from extreme temperatures and cooling cycles. The radiator is constantly exposed to exhaust gases that reach 800°C and are cooled down to 50°C. This repeated cycle causes thermal expansion and contraction. This can lead to internal cracking and breaking of EGR radiator components.
EGR Cooler Radiator Malfunction Symptoms
EGR coolers can’t be found in all vehicles. However, they are crucial in vehicles that are equipped with them. EGR cooler failure could cause serious engine damage or other component failures. These symptoms can often go unnoticed because they aren’t always obvious.
You can look for possible problems with the EGR cooler in a variety of situations. The first thing to check is the engine coolant. The EGR radiator may have cracked or leaking EGR and is causing the coolant to decrease in constant increments. If the EGR radiator cracks coolant may leak into your exhaust system and evaporate. The exhaust will emit white smoke. If the EGR valve appears wet, sticky and steam-cleaned when it is removed, this could be due to a faulty EGR radiator.
The driver will be notified if the EGR cooler is malfunctioning. The most common symptoms of EGR cooler malfunction are:
- – Illumination and control of the check engine light
- – Engine overheating
- – Lower engine performance
- – No engine coolant
- Leakage of coolant under vehicle causing coolant to accumulate
- – Exhaust gases emitting white smoke or steam
Engine Overheating
Engine overheating is the first sign that there may be a problem with your EGR cooler. Over time, carbon buildup in the EGR radiator can clog the passages. These blockages not only restrict exhaust gas flow but also prevent the unit from working properly. Overheating can cause engine damage due to restriction in flow and poor cooling.
White Smoke/ Vapor Emission From Exhaust
A faulty EGR cooler, as we have already mentioned, can result in excessive steam and smoke coming out of the exhaust. Some applications can be air-cooled, but most EGR coolers use engine cooling to cool the exhaust gases. EGR radiators may leak into the exhaust system if the gaskets fail or are damaged. Excessive heat causes coolant to evaporate and leak into the exhaust system. A clicking or hissing sound may be heard from the front of your vehicle. This will cause the EGR system to be less efficient, which can lead to engine overheating and adverse effects on engine performance.
Engine Malfunction light on
A check engine light is another sign of an EGR cooler problem. The check engine lamp will light up if the EGR system detects problems, such as exhaust or insufficient flow. There are many reasons why the malfunction lamp may come on. It is important to check the codes in your PCM using a diagnostic tool.
