Numerical Analysis of Key Parameters Influencing the Replacement of a Shell-and-Tube Heat Exchanger with an Automotive Radiator

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran

Abstract

A radiator is a crucial component of an engine's cooling system. It circulates a mixture of water and antifreeze, releasing heat as it draws in cooler air before the fluid returns to the engine. One common issue concerning radiators is their mounting location, which can vary across different automobile models.In automobiles and trucks, the radiator is typically mounted at the front, making it highly susceptible to damage in front-end collisions. Such damage often leads to coolant leakage, which can result in further impairment of the vehicle's engine and cooling system. This report aims to introduce a new system, utilizing a shell-and-tube heat exchanger, as an alternative to the conventional radiator while fulfilling its cooling function. The proposed approach addresses the limitations of traditional radiators and offers improvements in both thermal capacity and safety. This study presents a low-error simulation of the OM457-946 diesel engine, manufactured by IDEM Tabriz Company, incorporating both a test report and an accurate performance curve. The heat load values are 65.31 kW at no-load and 900 rpm, and 120.95 kW at full engine load and 2000 rpm. The engine's power output and thermal efficiency were analyzed at various speeds, revealing that replacing the shell-and-tube heat exchanger with an automotive radiator increases the cooling system's volume and resistance. This modification results in a 2% increase in engine power and a 7% improvement in thermal efficiency.

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References

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Hydrogen, Fuel Cell & Energy Storage
Volume 13, Issue 1
January 2026
Pages 31-38

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