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Re: radiators and water chemistry

To: TBallou@lanmail.rmc.com ("Tom Ballou")
Subject: Re: radiators and water chemistry
From: Roland Dudley <cobra@cdc.hp.com>
Date: Tue, 27 May 97 14:13:52 PDT
> Copper and aluminum are both excellent heat transfer materials.  However they 
> don't mix well.  In fact, they are bitter enemies!  When they are put 
> together the result is rapid and destructive corrosion.  Even when linked 

> tiles on the scape shuttle), but doesn't transfer heat well at all.  If you 
> are going to switch some components, you need to think about switching 
> everything - radiator and heater core (and thermostat).  Otherwise you will 
> have constructed a battery and the aluminum component will be sacrificial 
> anode.  Could be your intake, radiator, those expensive aluminum heads.   

Quite true.  I've notice the same thing in my aluminum water pump body
and intake manifold.  Here's a counter measures that was suggested to
me:  Install a chunk of magnesium in the radiator or header tank as a
sacrificial anode, perhaps suspended by a stainless wire or chain so
that it can be easily checked and replaced.  Anyone ever tried this?

Roland

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