DENVER, Colo. – Gates Corp. has announced the introduction of the POWERCLEAN Flush Tool, and in conjunction, the company has embarked on an industry-wide cooling system maintenance and awareness campaign. 
The POWERCLEAN Flush Tool uses patented pulsating technology, clean water and compressed air to scrub deeply into cooling system corners and crevices, dislodging more debris and accumulated sludge than a garden hose or evacuation flush. Flushing with the POWERCLEAN Flush Tool increases cooling efficiency, produces more heat for winter driving and lengthens water pump life, according to the company. In turn, this helps reduce warranty claims and increases customer satisfaction, Gates says.
Gates offers the tool to address the need for a more thorough way to flush radiators, engine blocks and most importantly, heater cores. Extensive chemical laboratory testing of coolants and their behavior on water pumps showed that improper cooling maintenance adversely impacts the water pump. Cross-contamination of coolant and mixing of coolant chemistry can lead to premature and catastrophic water pump failures.
Field-testing also showed that conventional flushing methods do not remove enough solid contaminants, which are held in suspension or have fallen out of suspension and remain in the system. These solids damage the water pump seal, the most critical component, according to Gates.
Gates says tests by the American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM) as well as the company’s own research show that water pump surface material loss does take place in the system and is not limited to the water pump. This material loss is harmful to water pump seals and results in compromised mating seal surfaces. Over time, all metal components in the cooling system can succumb to premature failure.
Results from testing on various applications proves the POWERCLEAN Flush Tool can clean cooling systems more thoroughly than conventional flushes while preventing damage and ensuring warranty coverage on replacement parts, including water pumps.
Gates also launched an awareness campaign to educate industry professionals on the importance of proper cooling system maintenance. The campaign provides the video and training tools needed to educate today’s technicians on efficiently cleaning cooling systems without damaging the water pump and other components.
To learn more, watch the Gates Cooling System Flush video.
