Abstract
Thermal management is an important factor for reducing CO2 emissions. The term "thermal management" describes the efficient control of thermal energy flows in vehicle in accordance with the specific requirements and the prevailing operating and load conditions. As a result, vehicle emissions can be reduced, and the thermodynamic and mechanical engine efficiency can be improved. This leads to lower fuel consumption, a longer engine life and improved thermal comfort.
The coolant temperature should ideally be adjusted depending on the operating condition of the engine. During cold start, the combustion engine should heat up rapidly in order to achieve a significant reduction in engine friction. Rapid heating of the engine oil and the resulting decrease in oil viscosity are the decisive factors. The heat generated by the engine must therefore not be dissipated by the coolant but used for heating the engine oil. At low and medium loads, high coolant temperatures of approx. 110°C are desirable for further reducing engine friction. To prevent knocking of the gasoline engine and reduce the enrichment of the mixture, the coolant temperature should preferably be reduced to approx. 80°C at high loads and high speeds. This article presents the reasons for the use of a modern thermal management system, an analysis of the requirements and an approach for implementing such a system.
Keywords: Thermal Management, Variable Water Pump, Engine Heating, Engine Cooling