HELLA Intercoolers: Optimized Airflow and Deformation Resistance

An intercooler is a device used in vehicles with turbocharged engines to cool the air that has been compressed by the turbocharger before it enters the engine's combustion chamber. HELLA offers a comprehensive range of intercoolers for passenger cars and light commercial vehicles, which are highly effective in reducing the temperature of this compressed air, making it denser. Denser air allows for better combustion, improved engine efficiency, and more power.

 

  • High Quality and Reliability: HELLA intercoolers meet high quality standards and ensure durability and consistent performance. This ensures that optimum engine temperatures are maintained over time, which contributes to efficient and low-emission engine operation.
     
  • Deformation Resistance: The components of HELLA intercoolers are optimized designed to withstand highest mechanical and thermal loads.
     
  • Easy Installation: Designed for precise fit and finish, HELLA intercoolers enable quick and smooth installation, reducing vehicle downtime and ensuring optimal performance post-installation.

HELLA EC Intercoolers additional benefits

Investing in a HELLA intercooler means choosing a product that enhances engine efficiency, reduces turbo lag, and contributes to overall vehicle performance. With HELLA's commitment to quality and innovation, customers can trust that they are selecting a reliable component for their vehicle's engine cooling system.

 

Optimized Airflow: Engineered to deliver consistent and balanced airflow, HELLA intercoolers enable optimized filling rates for the vehicles' combustion engine. Denser air allows for better combustion, improved engine efficiency, and more power.

 

Comprehensive Range: With a diverse selection of intercoolers suitable for various vehicle models, HELLA caters to a wide spectrum of automotive needs.

Additional benefits

How does it work?

Compression of Air: In turbocharged or supercharged engines, air is compressed by the turbocharger or supercharger to increase the amount of air and fuel entering the engine, which improves power output. However, compressing air generates heat, and hot air is less dense than cool air, meaning it contains less oxygen.


Role of the Intercooler: The intercooler’s job is to cool down this hot, compressed air before it enters the engine's combustion chambers. This cooling process increases the air’s density, allowing more oxygen to enter the engine. More oxygen means better combustion and more power.


How the Cooling Works: The intercooler uses either air-to-air or air-to-water cooling methods:


Air-to-Air Intercooler: This is the most common type. The compressed air flows through tubes in the intercooler while ambient air (from outside the vehicle) flows over the intercooler’s fins. The heat from the compressed air is transferred to the cooler outside air, lowering the air temperature.


Air-to-Water Intercooler: In this design, the compressed air flows through a heat exchanger that uses coolant (usually water or a water-based solution) to absorb the heat. The coolant is then circulated through a radiator to release the heat into the environment.

Why and when to replace?

Leaks: If the intercooler develops cracks or leaks, it can no longer effectively cool the compressed air. Leaks allow air to escape, reducing the intercooler’s efficiency and leading to poor engine performance. If leaks are detected, replacing the intercooler is necessary.

 

Clogging or Blockages: Over time, dirt, oil, or other contaminants can clog the internal passages of the intercooler, limiting airflow and its ability to cool the compressed air properly. If the intercooler becomes blocked and cannot be cleaned or repaired, it should be replaced.

 

Reduced Cooling Efficiency: If the intercooler fails to cool the air effectively, it can lead to engine overheating, reduced engine performance, and even engine knocking. This can be due to internal damage or degradation of the intercooler over time, making replacement necessary to restore performance.

 

Physical Damage: Impact damage (from road debris, accidents, or other external factors) can cause significant damage to the intercooler’s fins or tubes. This can severely impair its cooling capabilities, requiring a replacement. 

 

Corrosion or Rust: If the intercooler is made of materials susceptible to rust or corrosion (such as certain metals), over time, it can deteriorate, leading to reduced efficiency or failure. Corrosion can occur from exposure to moisture or contaminants, and a corroded intercooler should be replaced.

 

Engine Performance Issues: If you notice a drop in engine performance, reduced power, or poor fuel efficiency, it could be a sign that the intercooler is not functioning properly. In such cases, a thorough inspection is needed to determine if a replacement is necessary.

 

Age and Wear: Like other engine components, intercoolers can wear out over time, especially in high-performance or heavily used vehicles. After many years or miles of service, the intercooler may lose its effectiveness and require replacement.

Why and when to replace

What does HELLA offer?

Premium Technical Expertise and Service: Our technical workshop service, being provided through our experts, is rounding off our technical service. In addition to Tech World, our Partner World offers targeted content for wholesalers, helping them to better serve their customers.


HELLA Gutmann's Diagnostic Competence: With our first-class technical support, workshops will be able to repair the cars of today – and tomorrow. Our technical competence in workshop equipment will support this. We offer advanced vehicle diagnostics also for AC and EC, ensuring that workshops are able to deliver top-notch service. 


Target-oriented Marketing Services: Entire communication to market and supporting the W/D with a powerful communication package. Vast Data Management Services: HELLA’s sophisticated data management services allow for precise and efficient parts identification, ensuring that wholesalers and workshops can quickly find the right parts. 


Tailormade Logistic Solutions: Our logistics are designed to meet the specific needs of our partners, ensuring timely and reliable delivery of products. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON OUR EC INTERCOOLER

Vehicle-specific spare parts

Our online catalogue is designed to make your search for spare parts easier. For example, you can find the vehicle you are looking for by entering the manufacturer in our comprehensive list, the type designation or the engine code.

And as an added extra, all the key product information, such as

  • Part numbers
  • Mounting instructions
  • Safety data sheets and
  • OE numbers

is also included at the same time.

Vehicle-specific spare parts

Library as a means of communication

In this database, you will find marketing documents such as product brochures, brief information, links to HELLA websites, apps and tools, and also a selection of videos. You can search the database quickly and easily by entering various keywords, e.g. the product name, part number, relevant system or components, or you can simply use the drop-down filters.

Brief information