Auto water pumps
The engine, being the heart of the car, generates mechanical energy to move the car. As it does so, a lot of heat is created, and this can be detrimental to the engine’s performance and service life if not controlled.
Other components also need cooling – the oil cooler and the turbocharger. That’s where auto water pumps, also commonly called engine water pumps, come in. The auto water pump is part of the larger cooling system, which dissipates heat from the engine.
This mechanical auto water pump is driven by the engine crankshaft via a belt and uses its centrifugal design to circulate cooling fluid into the engine, while the electrical pump is driven by the car’s electrical system.
Given its importance, the auto water pump should be designed and manufactured correctly. This article surveys the different aspects of this device, including the types and manufacturing methods.
What Is An Auto Water Pump?
An auto water pump is an engine-driven pump that is part of the engine cooling system. It helps circulate cooling fluid around the engine. The cooling fluid absorbs heat from the engine, expels it in the radiator, and then repeats the cycle.
In short, the auto water part is an integral part of the engine cooling system, ensuring the optimum operation and durability of the engine, and by extension, the car.
What Does A Water Pump Do In A Car?
Here are the main functions of the water pump in a car:
Coolant Circulation
Coolant in expansion tank
The fundamental purpose of a water pump in a car is to deliver coolant to the engine and remove heat from the engine through the coolant to the radiator. Specifically, this device ensures that the antifreeze, water, and related fluids reach the engine promptly and in the right amount.
In a more detailed angle, the water pump not only cools the engine, but also regulates temperature and helps in engine synchronization.
Temperature Regulation
As it circulates coolant in the engine, the auto water pump also helps regulate the engine temperature to within the optimum range. By dispelling the heat generated during the combustion process, the pump helps safeguard the engine’s integrity.
Engine Synchronization
In some car models, the pump shaft is linked to the timing belt or chain, meaning that the device is involved in the synchronization of the engine pistons and car valves.
Timing belt connected to pump shaft
How An Auto Water Pump Works
Pump pushes coolant
The auto water pump works by deriving its driving force from the engine. Whenever the car engine is running, the timing belt connected to the crankshaft rotates the pump’s shaft.
The pump shaft is connected to an impeller, which increases the circulation speed and pressure of the coolant. The impeller generates the centrifugal force that forces the coolant throughout the system.
The source of the coolant is the radiator, and it goes through different passages in the engine, delivering cooling. This is a continuous cycle whenever the engine is running, with the heat being expelled to the radiator and heat being absorbed from the engine.
Radiator
Components of An Auto Water Pump
A typical automobile pump comes with an impeller, bearings, seals, a shaft, and a housing. To crown everything, the mechanical device has a driving force, which can be a timing/serpentine belt or electronic control (for electric water pumps).
Auto water pump parts
Impeller
The impeller is the rotating component that forces the coolant through the system, from the radiator to the engine and back.
Bearings and Seals
Bearings are mechanical devices that ensure the smooth and safe rotation of the pump. They work hand in hand with seals to ensure this smoothness and prevent leaks. Bearings are some of the prominent metal parts.
Shaft
The impeller is held in place by the shaft, which sits on bearings. The shaft is rotated by the electronic connection or serpentine belt and transfers the torque and motion to the impeller.
Housing
The pump housing protects all these pump contents to ensure safe, durable, and reliable performance. It is the most prominent part of the auto water pump.
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Different Types Of Auto Water Pumps
Auto water pumps are categorized as mechanical water pumps, electric water pumps, variable water pumps, and auxiliary water pumps. Each of these has a specific working mechanism and its pros and cons. The specific automobile water pump function is also different.
Mechanical Water Pumps
Mechanical auto water pumps are the most popular in the market. These pumps are fitted with a turbine, which rotates using the engine crankshaft. As the turbine rotates, it pumps coolant to the engine system.
The pulley that connects to the auto water pump has a timing function for the component to synchronize with the engine.
A mechanical water pump
Electric Water Pumps
The electric water pump derives its rotating power from the car’s electrical system. Modern cars, especially those with variable valve timing, have this type of auto water pump.
An electric water pump
Variable Water Pumps
A variable water pump is a type of mechanical water pump that can control the coolant delivery rate to the engine. These water pumps supply coolant according to the engine’s needs.
A variable water pump
Auxiliary Water Pumps
The auxiliary water pump supports the main auto water pump. There can be several auxiliary water pumps in a car, depending on the complexity of the cooling system.
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How To Manufacture An Auto Water Pump
Despite their sometimes similar appearance, auto water pumps are not always manufactured the same way – some are cast from metal, while others are formed. CNC machining and surface treatment are also part of the manufacturing process.
Metal Casting Method
Cast auto water pumps are made from molten metal that is shaped inside molds through sand casting or lost foam processes. The resulting pump is rugged and often requires secondary processing before it can be used.
Since metal castings are thick and rugged, they guarantee years of flawless use. These pumps are designed to accommodate a wide range of components, including seals and wear rings.
Metal Forming Method
In metal forming, forging and stamping are the most prominent techniques. Forging is primarily used for the shaft, although it is complemented by machining for surface quality and dimensional accuracy. The impeller blades and pulley are stamped into shape.
CNC Machining
CNC machining by ProleanTech is a popular technique in pump manufacturing, enabling the achievement of tight tolerances in intricate parts such as shafts, impellers, seals, hubs, and casings.
A CNC-machined pump mounting flange
Contact us for more on the CNC machining capabilities for different engine components and get a quote.
Surface Treatment
Usually, the manufacturing process for automotive water pumps is incomplete without further treatment to enhance corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and other properties. Options for this include anodizing, annealing, and powder coating.
How To Make A Water Pump Last Longer In A Car
Many issues can affect the performance and durability of an auto water pump. The solution to ensuring the longevity of the component is to watch out for and solve issues like coolant leakage, unusual noises, engine overheating, corrosion, and water pump pulley problems.
When these signs appear, the auto water pump should be inspected and repaired/replaced immediately. Overlooking these issues can not only cut short the life of the pump but also lead to engine failure.
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Conclusion
It is undeniable that the auto water pump is critical for the car’s engine cooling system. When it is running smoothly, the flawless performance of the car engine is enhanced, free from damage and overheating.
Regular inspection and prompt replacement with the right parts can noticeably extend the life of this essential component and safeguard the health of the engine.
Car owners, parts resellers, and dealers are encouraged to partner with only the most trustworthy auto water pump parts manufacturers. ProleanTech, with years of reputable CNC machining services for the auto industry, fits this description.
Get in touch today to learn about the capabilities for auto water pump parts manufacturing and ask to get a quote.
FAQ`s:
Is water pump part of engine?
No, the water pump is not part of the engine, but a mounted engine accessory.
Who makes the best water pumps for automobiles?
The best water pumps for automobiles come from globally renowned original equipment manufacturers (OEMs)
How long do auto water pumps last?
Water pump lifespan varies, but a good one, when well-maintained, can serve for tens of thousands of miles. These pumps are usually replaced during timing belt service or major cooling system service.
What is the average price of a water pump for a car?
The price of a water pump for a car depends on design and car type, so it can vary widely.
How do I know which water pump to buy?
Use the car’s make, model, and engine type as a guide for the best water pump to buy.
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