Principles and Effects of Overheating


Overheating is a major engine problem that can cause permanent damage if not prevented after the first occurrence. This is characterized by sudden failure of the engine because of extremely high temperatures, causing smoke or fire in the engine bay. This situation happens when the heat generated by the engine exceeds the normal temperature range of 195 to 220 degrees Fahrenheit.

Heat plays an important role in the engine's performance. Whether it is powered by gasoline or diesel, the engine has a heat limit to maintain. The mechanical energy needed to run the pistons and other engine components is generated by the pressure produced by heat of the burning fuel. The amount of energy generated is actually based on the heat produced.

More heat produced means greater engine efficiency. However, the materials composing the engine have thermal coefficient limits, so these parts can't stand heat above 220 degrees without detonating. In many highly-developed cities like West Hollywood and Beverly Hills, most auto repair shops blame overheating on an inefficient cooling system.

A coolant system in the engine acts as a temperature stabilizer. This system is composed of several parts including an electric cooling fan, a radiator, and a coolant pump. Each of these components helps keep engine temperature within a safe range. Some experts in auto repair West Hollywood explain that overheating happens when one of these parts stop functioning properly.

Other experts in auto repair West Hollywood say that the only way heat can exceed the standard level is when its channel is obstructed. The natural law of heat transfer says that a higher temperature flows towards the direction of a low temperature. If the passage of heat towards the radiator is obstructed, by a defective lower radiator hose, for instance, the entire cooling process is affected. This causes heat to be trapped, accumulating to dangerous levels.

Although most cases of overheating do not largely affect a car's body parts, in worst cases, some parts of the car are burned by actual fire. Most Beverly Hills auto body repair shops use many methods to recover the parts that are burned, but immediate repair of the engine and the cooling system is highly advised to prevent overheating from recurring.