A Methodology for the Design of Engine Cooling Systems in Standalone Applications

In this paper, a methodology for the design process of engine cooling systems is presented, which is based on the interaction among three programs: a code developed for radiator sizing and rating, a 3D commercial code used for the air circuit modeling, and a 1D commercial code used for the modeling and simulation of the complete engine cooling system. The aim of the developed methodology, in addition to ensure the system thermal balance, is the improvement of the design process of the cooling system itself, while shortening the development times, in non-automotive applications. An application to the design of a locomotive engine cooling system is presented. The system designed has been assembled and tested, showing the validity of the methodology, as well as the compliance of the designed system with the initially specified thermo-hydraulic constraints and requirements.