Description
MA-18 Air-Cooled Oil Cooler – Thermal Transfer
The MA-18 is a high-capacity oil cooler in the MA/MAR Series, designed for hydraulic and lubrication systems that require robust, continuous-duty cooling performance. With a significantly larger bar-and-plate aluminum core than the MA-14, the MA-18 manages higher flow rates, greater heat loads, and extended duty cycles common in industrial power units, mobile machinery, and off-highway equipment. It is a strong choice for applications that operate in demanding environments and require consistent thermal stability.
MAR Relief Bypass Option (Upgrade)
The MAR configuration adds an internal relief bypass valve that protects your hydraulic system from excessive backpressure during cold starts, high-viscosity operation, or sudden restrictions in flow. When system pressure rises above a preset threshold (commonly 25 PSI or 60 PSI depending on configuration), the bypass opens to allow controlled recirculation around the core. Once the oil warms and system conditions normalize, flow returns to full cooling. MAR versions enhance reliability and extend the service life of pumps, hoses, valves, and seals.
Specifications
| Model | MA-12 |
|---|---|
| Cooling Type | Air-Cooled Bar & Plate Oil Cooler |
| Capacity Range | Medium–High Flow Hydraulic & Lube Systems |
| Construction | Bar & Plate Aluminum Core |
| Max Operating Pressure | 300 PSI |
| Max Operating Temperature | 400°F |
| Connections | SAE, NPT, or BSPP (depending on configuration) |
| Fluid Compatibility | Hydraulic Oil / Lubricating Oil |
| Weight | Medium-to-heavy aluminum core, suited for industrial mounting |
MA/MAR Series Description
The MA/MAR Series from Thermal Transfer Products is engineered for demanding hydraulic and lubrication applications where reliability, strength, and high thermal performance are essential. Using a robust bar-and-plate aluminum core, the MA Series provides exceptional heat-transfer efficiency while maintaining low weight and compact dimensions. This combination makes the MA-series coolers ideal for both stationary and mobile equipment.
The air-side fin geometry is optimized for maximum airflow, reduced static pressure, and long-term fouling resistance—critical benefits for real-world industrial and off-road environments. Welded aluminum manifolds, reinforced port structures, and multiple connection standards (SAE, NPT, BSPP) provide broad compatibility with global hydraulic systems.
For hydraulic systems that experience viscosity swings, cold starts, or pressure surges, the MAR internal bypass option offers enhanced system protection by automatically relieving excess pressure until conditions normalize. Together, these features make the MA/MAR Series a reliable solution for heavy-duty cooling applications.
Key Features
- Large bar-and-plate aluminum core for high cooling capacity
- Ideal for heavy-duty hydraulic and lubrication applications
- Strong, lightweight design suitable for mobile or stationary installations
- Advanced fin geometry for efficient airflow and long-term fouling resistance
- Rated for 300 PSI and 400°F maximum operating conditions
- Optional MAR internal relief bypass for cold-start and pressure-spike protection
- Available in SAE, NPT, or BSPP porting
Installation Notes
- Ensure the MA-18 is mounted with unobstructed airflow for both intake and exhaust sides of the core.
- Install in the return line or a dedicated cooling loop for maximum thermal stability.
- Use flexible hoses or vibration isolation, particularly on mobile or off-highway machinery.
- Keep oil clean and well-filtered to avoid internal fouling and maintain cooling performance.
- Select the MAR bypass option when cold-start pressure spikes or high-viscosity oils are present.
Frequently Asked Questions
MA-18 Oil Cooler – FAQs
▶️ Question: When should I choose the MA-18 instead of the MA-14?
Answer: Choose the MA-18 when your system requires higher heat rejection, handles greater flow, or experiences heavier, continuous-duty operating conditions. The MA-18 offers a larger core and higher cooling capacity than the MA-14, making it suitable for more demanding applications.
▶️ Question: What advantages does the MAR-18 bypass version offer?
Answer: The MAR-18 provides built-in protection from pressure spikes that occur during cold starts or high-viscosity operation. Its internal relief bypass valve opens automatically to protect the system and helps stabilize startup performance, reducing wear on pumps, hoses, and valves.
▶️ Question: Is the MA-18 suitable for mobile and off-road equipment?
Answer: Yes. The MA-18’s rugged bar-and-plate design and high cooling capacity make it ideal for forestry machinery, construction vehicles, agricultural equipment, and other mobile systems that operate in harsh, high-vibration environments.
▶️ Question: What porting options are available on the MA-18?
Answer: The MA-18 is available with SAE, NPT, or BSPP porting, allowing easy integration with global hydraulic standards and minimizing the need for adapters or re-plumbing.
▶️ Question: How do I determine if the MA-18 is properly sized for my system?
Answer: Estimate your system’s heat load (often one-third of input horsepower) and compare it to MA Series performance charts. If your temperature and flow requirements exceed the MA-14 range, the MA-18 is the ideal next step. For even larger loads, consider the MA-20 or MA-32.
