However, the use of antifreeze requires strict adherence to safety precautions, as the chemical compounds in antifreeze – especially ethylene glycol – can be hazardous to human health, the environment, vehicle components, and even the performance of the cooling system.
Dear friends, the purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive and fully practical guide for users, repairmen, and drivers who plan to use antifreeze 45. The following is a detailed discussion of the chemical structure of antifreeze, the reasons why it is important to observe precautions, safety details, correct steps for use, common errors, storage conditions, transportation principles, standard antifreeze detection methods, waste disposal methods, and dozens of other important points.
Chapter One: Understanding Antifreeze 45 and its chemical structure
1. What is antifreeze and why is it used?
Antifreeze is a compound fluid that stabilizes the operating temperature of the cooling system by lowering the freezing point and raising the boiling point. In addition to controlling temperature, this fluid also prevents metal corrosion, deposit formation, and bubble formation.
2. What is antifreeze 45?
45% antifreeze is a ready-to-use solution consisting of 45% pure antifreeze and 55% deionized water. Its most important functions are:
- Prevent freezing in sub-zero temperatures
- Preventing engine from boiling over
- Protects water pump, radiator and hoses
- Preventing corrosion, rust and sediment accumulation
3. The main components of antifreeze
Standard antifreeze usually consists of the following ingredients:
- Ethylene glycol (main active ingredient)
It has a very low freezing point and is the main factor in lowering the freezing point of the mixture. But it is very toxic.
- Propylene glycol (in some models)
Less hazardous and sometimes used instead of ethylene glycol.
- Anti-corrosion additives
To prevent corrosion of metals such as aluminum, iron, brass and copper.
- Thermal stabilizer
And to increase the functional life of the fluid.
- بازدارنده رسوبات
To prevent the formation of scale, limescale and mineral crystals.
Chapter 2: Possible dangers of antifreeze 45
Every chemical added to a car engine has potential risks along with its benefits, and Antifreeze 45 is no exception.
1. Dangers to humans
- Ingestion hazard
Ethylene glycol has a sweet taste, which increases the risk of accidental ingestion. Complications of ingestion include:
- kidney damage
- Metabolic acidosis
- Respiratory disorders
- a coma
- Danger of vapor inhalation
In a closed environment, it can cause:
- headache
- Respiratory tract irritation
- cough
- Become weak and dizzy
- Risk of skin contact
Long-term contact leads to:
- dry skin
- inflammation
- cracking
- Allergic reaction
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- Risk of eye contact
It causes severe burning, watering, and temporary blurring of the eyes.
2. Dangers to the car
- Corrosion if a non-standard product is used
- Deposits and clogging of radiator ducts
- Reducing the life of the water pump
- Damage to the cylinder head gasket when using the wrong antifreeze
- Cylinder block cracking due to not using the right antifreeze
3. Environmental hazards
Leaked antifreeze can be dangerous to pets.
Also, the entry of antifreeze into surface waters can poison aquatic ecosystems.
Chapter 3: Precautions before use
1. Carefully read the manual
Each vehicle requires a specific ratio and type of antifreeze based on the engine design, radiator material, and hoses.
Common user errors usually result from not reading the manual.
2. Use of personal protective equipment
The following equipment must be used before any contact with antifreeze:
- Chemical resistant gloves
- Protective glasses
- Lightweight mask to prevent inhalation of fumes
- Long-sleeved work clothes
3. Choose standard antifreeze
Look for the following specifications:
- Inserting the national standard
- Liquid transparency and uniformity
- Existence of production and expiration dates
- Seals and seals are intact.
- No sediment at the bottom of the container
Chapter 4: Precautions when using antifreeze 45
1. The engine is completely cold
Opening the radiator cap when it is hot can cause boiling water and steam to spray out at temperatures above 100 degrees.
How do we make sure the engine is cold?
- Wait at least 45 minutes after turning off.
- Check the radiator temperature with your hand (through a glove).
- Check for signs of pressure, such as hissing sounds.
2. Opening the cap correctly
Open the lid a half turn and let the pressure slowly release. Then open it completely.
3. Prevent contamination
Any dust or foreign particles can clog the radiator. It is essential to use a clean funnel.
Chapter 5: Precautions after use
1. Leakage check
After adding antifreeze and starting the engine:
- Hoses
- Connections
- Radiator
- Expansion tank
- water pump
They must be checked.
2. Antifreeze level control
After a few hours of driving, check the fluid level again. A drop in the level could be a sign of a leak.
3. Collecting and cleaning the workplace
Spilled antifreeze on the floor should be collected with an absorbent cloth.
Chapter Six: Antifreeze Storage Principles
1. Storage in original containers
Never transfer antifreeze to an unlabeled beverage container or bottle.
2. out of reach of children
The sweet taste of antifreeze increases the likelihood of ingestion by children and animals.
3. away from direct light
Sunlight reduces the quality of antifreeze and breaks down additives.
4. Storage in a dry environment
High humidity causes fungus to grow in the mouth of the container and reduces the quality of the product.
Chapter 7: Proper disposal of used antifreeze
Antifreeze should not:
- Pour into the sewer
- Leave it in the soil
- Dispose of with household waste.
Correct disposal methods:
- Delivery to recycling centers
- Transfer to a repair shop with a chemical waste tank
- Store in a sturdy container with a lid for delivery to authorized centers.
Chapter 8: Symptoms of Antifreeze Poisoning and First Aid
1. Early symptoms
- headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Drowsiness
- heartbeat
- blurred vision
2. Advanced symptoms
- convulsions
- Decreased level of consciousness
- kidney failure
- Respiratory problems
Initial actions
- Call the emergency services immediately.
- Not inducing vomiting
- Rapid transfer to the hospital
Chapter 9: Common user errors in using antifreeze
Some very common errors in using antifreeze include:
- Using tap water
This water contains mineral salts that deposit deposits on the radiator.
- Mixing different antifreezes
Each antifreeze has its own unique ingredients; their combination causes chemical deterioration.
- Excessive use of antifreeze
Concentrations above 60% will cause increased temperatures and damage to the water pump.
- Opening the lid when hot
This is one of the main causes of burns in repair shops.
My dear friends, in the end you should know that
Antifreeze 45 is one of the most important automotive consumables that, if used properly, can significantly extend the life of the engine, radiator, and water pump. However, if safety precautions are not followed, this useful liquid can become a dangerous substance that threatens human health, vehicle performance, and the environment.
Knowing the proper principles of using, storing, transporting, disposing of, and mixing antifreeze is the most important step in preventing serious and costly damage.
