The Evolution of Active Liquid Cooling Systems in Electric Vehicles: Understanding the Differences from Petrol Engine Coolants

Electric vehicles (EVs) have gained significant traction in recent years, primarily due to their environmental benefits and technological advancements. One of the critical components in an EV is the battery, which requires a robust cooling system to ensure optimal performance, enhance battery longevity, and prevent thermal runaways. This article explores the evolution of the active liquid cooling systems in EVs, comparing them to the coolant systems used in traditional petrol engine vehicles.

Current Cooling Mechanisms in Electric Vehicles

Presently, automakers are using a range of coolant mediums for active liquid cooling systems in EVs, predominantly ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, and water mixtures. These coolants are typically stored in multiple coolant bottles, each serving a specific purpose. For example, in the Chevrolet Bolt, I observed three coolant bottles, but the function of the third loop remains unclear.

The Risks and Challenges of Glycol-Water Coolants

One of the main concerns with glycol-water coolant solutions is their potential to cause short circuits in the battery pack if leaked into it. Furthermore, if there is a runaway reaction within a battery cell, these coolants may not dissipate the heat quickly enough, leading to a potential fire. This is a serious safety issue that needs immediate attention.

Emerging Solutions: Hydrocarbon-Based Coolants

To mitigate these risks, oil companies and automakers are exploring the use of hydrocarbon-based products as battery cooling fluids. These new coolants are less prone to electrical conductivity, thus reducing the risk of electrical short circuits. They also have better thermal properties, allowing for more efficient heat dissipation, potentially reducing the likelihood of thermal runaways and subsequent fires in EV batteries.

Comparable Nature of Coolant Agents

Despite the differences in the primary coolant agents used, the fundamental principle remains the same. The liquid cooling systems in both petrol engine vehicles and EVs serve the same purpose of transferring heat away from critical components to maintain a stable operating temperature. For instance, the coolant used in an electric vehicle#39;s motor serves the same function as that used in petrol engines, effectively transferring self-generated heat to a cooling fluid and then dispersing it.

Similarities and Differences

While the core purpose of the cooling systems is comparable, the specific implementations and materials used can differ significantly. Petrol engine coolants are designed to manage the heat generated by combustion and mechanical processes, while battery coolants are tailored to handle the chemical reactions occurring within the battery cells. Nonetheless, both systems ensure that the temperature does not exceed safe limits, thereby protecting the vehicle#39;s performance and safety.

Conclusion

The evolution of liquid cooling systems in electric vehicles is a crucial area of focus for both automotive manufacturers and researchers. The transition from glycol-water coolants to hydrocarbon-based solutions marks a significant step towards enhancing the safety and reliability of EV batteries. As these technologies continue to develop, we can expect to see further innovations that will revolutionize the way we think about cooling systems in all types of vehicles.

In summary, the active liquid cooling systems in EVs, while sharing some similarities with petrol engine coolants in their purpose, have distinct differences in their compositions and functionalities. Understanding these differences is essential for improving the design and safety of electric vehicles.