Answer
Apr 26, 2023 - 03:18 AM
Engine block erosion is the biggest reason to do this. Does aluminum corrode in saltwater? Yes, it sure can. We're talking about galvanic corrosion. Back in science class you'd say that this is where one metal in an electrically conductive solution (such as salt water) gives up atoms when connected to a dissimilar metal in that same solution. As of 2015 some marine manufacturers switched from iron to aluminum in some of their engine components so the protection of the blocks and heads is imperative if you have a post 2015 engine. Iron does better but is still a problem. All you need to do is place a piece of iron in a glass in saltwater and leave it on your kitchen table for a week. It will give you an idea of what is going to happen. Closed cooling on a marine engine is always a good idea.
Protection against other means of corrosion: A closed cooling system can help protect the engine from corrosion. This is because the coolant in a closed system is not exposed to outside air or water, which can contain contaminants that cause corrosion. A closed cooling system uses coolant to transfer heat from the engine to the heat exchanger, rather than seawater. This eliminates the possibility of saltwater corrosion within the engine block, exhaust manifold, and other internal components. This reduces the build-up of aquatic material including plant and animal residue, salt, debris and mineral deposits within the water jacket of the engine block and exhaust system.
Extended engine life: A closed cooling system can help extend the life of the engine by reducing the wear and tear on the engine components. This is because the engine is less likely to see sea water reducing corrosion not only in the engine block but also in the manifolds which marginally helps reduce scale in the exhaust ports.
Reduced maintenance: With a closed cooling system, there is less maintenance required than with an open system. This is because there is no need to flush the engine with fresh water after every use, which can save time and money.
Subtle improvements in engine performance: By maintaining a consistent temperature, a closed cooling system can help to optimize engine performance. The engine is less likely to overheat, which can lead to problems like engine damage and reduced fuel efficiency.
©2023 Mr. Cool Marine LLC
Protection against other means of corrosion: A closed cooling system can help protect the engine from corrosion. This is because the coolant in a closed system is not exposed to outside air or water, which can contain contaminants that cause corrosion. A closed cooling system uses coolant to transfer heat from the engine to the heat exchanger, rather than seawater. This eliminates the possibility of saltwater corrosion within the engine block, exhaust manifold, and other internal components. This reduces the build-up of aquatic material including plant and animal residue, salt, debris and mineral deposits within the water jacket of the engine block and exhaust system.
Extended engine life: A closed cooling system can help extend the life of the engine by reducing the wear and tear on the engine components. This is because the engine is less likely to see sea water reducing corrosion not only in the engine block but also in the manifolds which marginally helps reduce scale in the exhaust ports.
Reduced maintenance: With a closed cooling system, there is less maintenance required than with an open system. This is because there is no need to flush the engine with fresh water after every use, which can save time and money.
Subtle improvements in engine performance: By maintaining a consistent temperature, a closed cooling system can help to optimize engine performance. The engine is less likely to overheat, which can lead to problems like engine damage and reduced fuel efficiency.
©2023 Mr. Cool Marine LLC
