Käytöneste

Käytöneste is a Finnish term that translates to "operating fluid" or "working fluid" in English. It refers to any liquid that circulates within a system to perform a specific function. The nature and properties of the käytöneste depend entirely on the application.

In hydraulic systems, for example, a hydraulic fluid serves as the käytöneste. This fluid transmits power, lubricates moving parts, cools the system, and prevents corrosion. Common hydraulic fluids include mineral oils, synthetic oils, and water-glycol mixtures.

In refrigeration and air conditioning systems, refrigerants act as the käytöneste. These fluids absorb heat from one area and release it in another, facilitating the cooling process. Various refrigerants exist, each with specific thermodynamic properties and environmental considerations.

Engine coolants, often a mixture of water and antifreeze, are another example of a käytöneste. Their primary role is to regulate the engine's temperature by absorbing excess heat and preventing freezing in cold conditions.

Other applications include lubricants in engines and machinery, which reduce friction and wear between moving parts, and heat transfer fluids used in solar thermal systems or industrial processes to move thermal energy. The selection of the appropriate käytöneste is crucial for the efficiency, longevity, and safety of the system it serves. Its properties, such as viscosity, thermal conductivity, chemical stability, and compatibility with system materials, are carefully considered during its formulation and selection.