Coolant valves and why they are essential for cooling system architecture
This chapter underscores the importance of coolant valve technology, which provides precise control over coolant flow and allows for dynamic adjustments based on real-time temperature data. The video focuses on two types of coolant valves: a high flowrate 3-way proportional valve and a shut off valve. These valves are essential elements used within the cooling architecture of EVs and FCVs, where rapid temperature changes occur.
Understanding coolant valve technology
The video shows how a high flow rate 3-way proportional valve works. A coolant valve is designed for mixing and diverting coolant that has a high flowrate while maintaining a low coolant pressure drop. When used at either of its extremes, the valve will send 100% of the flow to either the heat exchanger or the bypass.
In the video, we explain the thermal benefits of a 3-way coolant valve in directing the flowrate. For instance, it enables faster warm-up and response times when the coolant valve channels the coolant flow to bypass the heat exchanger. We also cover 3-way valves in FCV thermal management systems and how they are instrumental in maintaining a precise inlet temperature to the stack, thereby protecting the fuel cell membrane and shortening warm-up time.
You will discover key techniques used within cooling architecture such as isolating the onboard charger sub-circuit from the primary coolant loop during a drive cycle with the use of a shut off valve. This energy-efficient solution prioritises flowrate and cooling during rapid charging, reducing the overall demand on the coolant pump, energy consumed by the system, and coolant volume in use. Please speak to a member of our team