Types Of Radiator Plastic Tanks: Which Type Is Best for You?

Radiators are among the most essential components of an automobile. If there were no radiators, drivers wouldn't have been able to drive their vehicles for more than a few minutes. It includes the tanks that help them regulate the temperature to keep the car less heated for long journeys. Find out all about them below.

About Radiator Plastic Tanks 

Automobile radiator tanks carry water and coolant to regulate the engine's temperature. Both aluminum and plastic types radiators are available in the market, but plastic tanks are also used. They are lightweight radiator molds that prevent heat dissipation from the radiator. Since modern vehicles are more focused on lightweight bodies and agile performance, plastic tanks are preferred. They are less costly and do everything a modern automobile needs from them. 

Types of Radiator Plastic Tanks in the Industry

These auto plastic radiator tanks are not always plastic because the heat and pressure can cause damage. To prevent that risk, the auto industry uses plastic, nylon, and fiberglass, depending on a car's condition. Therefore, you can find some types available in the auto industry regarding material type.

Nylon/Polyamide (PA) Plastic Tanks 

PA66 is one of the most used radiator tank materials in the auto industry. The reason is it absorb moisture and are chemical and heat resistance. Since an engine releases heat around it, all the components have to be heat-resistant. Moreover, coolant is a chemical that can corrode regular plastic. Therefore, PA radiator tanks are chemical and heat resistant. They are made of glass-reinforced nylon, which has a lightweight structure and durability for auto applications. These radiator tanks can last longer than usual plastic types. 

However, there are some cons to using PA66 radiator tanks. Since nylon absorbs moisture, it can be deformed or mechanically damaged in harsh conditions. Moreover, it is a brittle material, which can lead to cracking or damage from sudden shocks. PA radiator tanks are more expensive than other plastic tanks. 

Polypropylene (PP) Plastic Tanks 

Another common type is the PP radiator tank. It is a cost-effective type with enough strength and weight for an automobile. The heat resistance revolves around 90 degrees Celsius, which makes it another good option for radiator tanks. Also, its flexibility makes it an ideal option for many types of automobiles. Besides, it can resist chemicals like radiator coolant for top performance. Its lightweight structure poses no extra weight in the automobile.

 Fiberglass/Glass-Reinforced Plastic (GRP) Tanks 

Here is a combination of fiberglass and plastic, which makes these radiator tanks an acceptable option for automobiles. There is a high strength-to-weight ratio in GRP radiator tanks and are cost effective. They last longer than plastic types, making them suitable for modern cars. Even their heat and chemical resistance is higher than usual plastic types.  

A disadvantage of using them is their brittleness. They can crack under high stress.

Polyethylene Terephthalate Tanks 

The last type, which is rare, is PET. This type of tank is not so common for radiators, but it shows good performance. It is compatible with lots of vehicles because of its chemical and heat resistance. It is also very light in weight. It is more expensive than the PP type, which is probably why it is not very common in the industry.

How to Choose the Best  Radiator Plastic Tank for an Automobile? 

When you are about to choose, make sure to follow some guidelines. They will let you decide better for the best performance you seek from plastic radiator tanks. Choosing the right radiator plastic tank is crucial, but knowing how to handle potential leaks is equally important. Discover more in our article on the effect of epoxy on radiators.

Some Factors to Consider

The first thing you should consider is the vehicle type you choose. The car model you drive and its age are the main factors you should consider. 

Do you drive in a cold region or a hot one? The region matters a lot because the heat resistance level will be the element for which a tank is made.

How much do you drive? Your driving frequency will be another consideration. If you drive a lot, it will be better to go for the fiberglass type. 

Then comes your budget, deciding if you can afford the radiator tank you want. 

Lastly, if you are willing to purchase plastic tanks for your retail business, you need to decide whether you want OEM quality or aftermarket. 

A Few Maintenance and Care Tips for Users  

Unless you do the proper maintenance, your radiator tanks will have problems in the future. You are not only supposed to replace the old one but also prevent future damage. Notice signs that can lead you to detect minor and significant damage in the radiator tank. Learn how to check for cracks and leaks, saving you from substantial loss.  

Maintenance Tips 

Here are some maintenance tips that you need to follow to keep things running smoothly.

You may notice water stains on the ground under the vehicle, right below the radiator tank. If you notice any water stains, the radiator tank could be leaking.

If you notice a low coolant level frequently, that could be a sign that you should have a look at the radiator. 

If your vehicle gets overheated too early and too frequently, waiting is a problem. 

Perform a pressure test on your radiator to inspect any leakage in the tank.

Use the correct type of coolant that matches your vehicle model and usage level.

Flush the contaminated coolant before you refill. The contaminated one will cause further problems for the radiator.

Inspect the thermostat and have it repaired or replaced.

Conclusion 

Plastic tanks for radiators are lightweight and resistant to heat and chemicals. Their performance depends on how much you drive. Moreover, how much heat is around the radiator tank matters a lot. Therefore, fiberglass type is also common among plastic tanks. 

Linghang Technology Offers Plastic Radiator Tanks For Different Vehicle Models

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