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The difference between the antifreeze used in a diesel engine and that used in a conventional gas engine is that diesel antifreeze contains a special additive that protects against erosion on cylinder walls.
Cavitation
Cavitation occurs when high-pressure vapor bubbles that form in the cooling system attach to, implode and erode the wall of the cylinder in a diesel engine. Gasoline engines typically operate under lighter loads, have much lower cylinder pressures and do not require protection against cavitation.
SCA
Diesel antifreeze contains SCAs, or supplemental coolant additives. They prevent cavitation by forming a protective barrier between the cylinder wall and the vapor bubbles. Erosion affects the SCA coating instead of the cylinder wall.
Additional Benefits of SCAs
SCAs also neutralize acids, provide anti-foam protection and prevent scale and corrosion. The coolant system should be tested at least two times per year as part of engine maintenance. This is usually done with a refractometer or hydrometer.
