Coolant Flow Optimization in a Racing Cylinder Block and Head Using CFD Analysis and Testing

Coolant flow absorbs heat generated from engine combustion, and continued efficient heat transfer is crucial in high performance racing engines to provide maximum engine power and durability. Any potentially stagnant flow may cause an overheated zone in the coolant jacket resulting in structural damage. Critical areas can include the cylinder head around exhaust ports. Due to complexity of the geometries, flow patterns around those areas are not well understood. In this report, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis, combined with testing, is utilized to study a typical racing engine coolant jacket. The results include coolant flow assessment in critical zones as it is affected by cooling flow inlet, head gasket design, and flow outlet geometries.