Antifreeze G11 and G12: what is the difference?

High-quality antifreeze is not a definition of a cooling liquid that simply does not boil in the summer and does not freeze in the winter. This is a definition of a high-tech composition that performs several different options at the same time. Its correct selection is the key to trouble-free operation of the pump, radiator and engine as a whole.

Antifreezes began to be used as a cooling liquid in the 1950-60s. Today, there are several varieties of them. Antifreeze G12 and G11 are created on the same basis - ethylene glycol, a mixture of dihydric alcohols. It is this raw material that has such necessary properties for a cooling liquid (coolant) as optimal thermal conductivity and heat dissipation, a low expansion coefficient with increasing temperature. Despite the similar basis, the answer to the question "is it possible to mix antifreeze G11 and G12" is not as obvious as it seems.

Chemical composition and properties of G11

This is the first type of antifreeze, which began to be widely used in the twentieth century. Tosol, which is widely known in the post-Soviet countries, also belongs to it. It is designed for vehicles with a significant volume of the cooling system (CO).

The main components of antifreeze G11

Ethylene glycol as the main component in the concentrate occupies about 90% of the volume. Another 5% is water, fluorescent, anti-foam, anti-cavitation components and other additives. All these are inhibitors designed to protect the system from corrosion. In fact, ethylene glycol is a toxic and aggressive substance. When heated, it is very active against non-ferrous metal alloys, which are abundant in the engine design. Therefore, inorganic additives (silicates, phosphates, nitrates) are specially introduced into the composition of G11, which make it neutral to internal combustion engine systems made of brass and copper.

The TEMOL online store sells both diluted liquid and antifreeze concentrate. To prepare a solution from it, just dilute it with distilled water in the required amount indicated on the package. In standard cases, it is recommended to achieve a mixture of 40-60% alcohol.

Features of G11 application

G11 has a lower price also due to the inorganic substances used in it. It covers the cooling system elements with a thin protective coating, preventing corrosion. Although this film is very thin, there is a slight decrease in thermal conductivity. However, the acidic environment that can form from the destruction of parts reduces the alkaline properties of the antifreeze (pH = 8.6 in a 50% mixture), so the importance of the resulting film is great.

Chemical composition and properties of G12

The next generation was antifreeze G12. And G11 is still used, but only in some brands of cars.

The main components of antifreeze G12

Antifreeze G11 and G12 have ethylene glycol as a base. The difference in the latter is in the organic carboxylate additives used. G12+ has slightly improved properties, and in G12++ 10% of inorganic substances and mineral components are added to the inhibitors (additives). Such a hybrid version creates a thin coating that provides prevention, but without the ability to eliminate corrosion after it has occurred.

Pure ethylene glycol is a transparent viscous liquid that boils at +197 ° C and begins to crystallize at -13 ° C. The main property of freezing at low temperatures is given to it by adding water, but in a strictly defined proportion.

Advantages and disadvantages of using G12

The new additives work in such a way that they do not create a continuous protective layer on the surfaces of the cooling system, but only then and where a corrosion center begins to form. That is, in those places where it is necessary. As a result, heat transfer indicators have significantly increased, which is important for modern high-speed engines, and the service life of the product. But the developers had to sacrifice the preventive function that a continuous film provides. In G12++, a hybrid, more successful version of the liquid was obtained. But the price has also increased.

Comparative analysis of G11 and G12

It should be noted right away that antifreezes G11, G12, G13 usually differ in color. But it cannot be used as a guide due to the lack of a single standard. And what will happen if you mix antifreeze G11 and G12, even if they are the same color, let's figure it out below.

Temperature characteristics and period of use

The properties of G12 were developed taking into account the requirements of more modern engines with a smaller volume of the cooling system, thinner tubes in it and high speeds in the internal combustion engine system. Due to the coating of only problem areas with a protective layer, the efficiency of heat transfer has increased significantly, it was possible to reduce the volumes of additives used and extend the service life of the antifreeze. Now it has become possible to replace it not once every 2-3 years like G11, but after 5 years.

G12 usually has a boiling point of +118 ° C. This is slightly higher than that of G11 and, in particular, antifreeze, which has +110 ° C. Sometimes this is significant for engines that are operated under high load conditions.

But you need to know the following: cars with brass and copper parts in the cooling system need only G11. These often include cars of the development and with a year of manufacture before 1996. Be sure to follow the instructions of the car manufacturer.

Can G11 and G12 antifreeze be mixed?

The situation is especially important for those who have purchased a car and are not privy to the history of its previous operation. As mentioned earlier, you cannot rely on the color of the dye. The best way is to do a complete replacement with a preliminary flush of the system. If you mix G11 and G12 antifreeze, there is a high probability of some kind of breakdown, because they contain additives of different nature: organic and inorganic. In the event of a chemical reaction, sediment may fall out, cavitation may occur, clog thin pipes in the engine and other malfunctions may occur, significantly reducing the service life of the mechanisms. Moreover, the problem does not appear immediately and becomes obvious too late, when the internal combustion engine system will already require serious capital investment.

G11 and G12 antifreeze can be mixed for the sake of an experiment in a separate small container to make sure that sediment appears. If you do this in a car, the thin CO tubes will immediately become clogged. In addition, if there are copper or brass components, the metal will also immediately react and begin to deteriorate. On the road, with a low coolant level and an urgent need to get somewhere, it is better to add simple distilled water. If mixing does occur, you need to clean the cooling system as quickly as possible and use the "correct" antifreeze.

But the G12 varieties are compatible, although it is better to be on the safe side and avoid mixing. They have similar components, but different manufacturing companies use their know-how. And no one knows how different additives will react with each other.

Which antifreeze is best for your car?

The choice: G12 and G11 antifreeze depends on many factors, including:

• Car brand;
• Car model;
• Instructions for it;
• Climate conditions.

G11 (also known as Tosol, blue antifreeze) is usually used in older cars, contains ethylene glycol. It has excellent anti-corrosion properties, protects against freezing, but its service life is short, and it needs to be renewed every 2-3 years.

G12 is usually recommended for newer cars. This organic product is more durable, resistant to negative temperatures, and also reliably protects against corrosion. The service life can reach 5 years. However, it is not applicable to engines with brass and copper elements.

It is important to always follow the recommendations of the car manufacturer. To ensure optimal protection and performance of your engine, it is better to purchase products from a reliable, proven manufacturer. Moreover, it is advisable to buy directly from them.

This opportunity is provided by the Ukrainian company TEMOL. A wide range of lubricants and auto chemicals, including coolants. Quality is confirmed by 12 years of work and export to 15 countries.