Description
Thermal Transfer MA-232 Brazed-Aluminum Oil Cooler
The Thermal Transfer MA-232 is a compact brazed-aluminum bar-and-plate oil cooler designed for large hydraulic systems using a dual-fan MA configuration; this catalog part number indicates the 12 VDC motor option. The MA platform is used on mobile and stationary hydraulic, transmission, engine-oil, and lubrication systems where low weight, rugged construction, and efficient air-side heat transfer are important.
This product is cataloged under MPN 210618-4A. The part number identifies a 12 VDC fan configuration. The MA-232 belongs to the largest MA models; final selection should be based on heat load, oil flow, approach temperature, oil viscosity, airflow, and allowable pressure drop rather than model number alone.
Why Choose the MA-232?
- Lightweight brazed-aluminum bar-and-plate construction for mobile and industrial service.
- Compact core geometry provides high heat transfer per unit of space.
- Available as a core-only unit or with 12 VDC, 24 VDC, hydraulic-motor, or AC motor arrangements, depending on model.
- Optional MAR configuration provides a reversible 30 or 60 PSI bypass assembly.
- Multiple connection options support integration into different hydraulic and lubrication circuits.
Verified Technical Information
| Model | MA-232 |
| Catalog MPN | 210618-4A |
| Maximum Operating Pressure | 250 PSI (17 bar) |
| Maximum Operating Temperature | 300°F (150°C) |
| Core Type | Brazed aluminum bar-and-plate |
| Tank Material | 5052 aluminum |
| Fin, plate, turbulator and end-plate material | 3003-O aluminum |
| Connections and mounting brackets | Aluminum |
| Bypass Option | MAR configuration, 30 or 60 PSI |
MA and MAR Configuration Guidance
The standard MA-232 MA configuration does not include an internal bypass. A corresponding MAR configuration can be specified with a reversible 30 or 60 PSI bypass where cold oil or high-viscosity operation may cause excessive pressure drop. Choose the bypass setting with the system designer; it is a protective flow path, not a substitute for correct cooler sizing.
Typical Applications
MA-series coolers are well suited to mobile hydraulic equipment, compact power units, off-highway machinery, industrial hydraulic systems, transmissions, engine-oil circuits, gearboxes, and lubrication systems. Their aluminum construction is especially useful where weight and installation space matter.
Installation and Maintenance Guidance
Install the MA-232 with unrestricted airflow across the core and protect it from debris, impact, and recirculated hot air. Support hoses and piping so the aluminum connections are not carrying external loads. Confirm flow direction when a MAR bypass is installed, verify fan rotation and electrical or hydraulic motor requirements, and inspect the core regularly for dirt, fin damage, leaks, and loose mounting hardware.
How to Confirm the MA-232 Is the Right Size
Calculate or estimate the heat load, then verify the required heat rejection at the actual oil flow and the difference between desired oil temperature and ambient air temperature. Correct for fluid viscosity and confirm that pressure drop is acceptable. For mobile equipment, also account for reduced vehicle speed, dirty environments, elevated ambient temperature, and any restriction created by screens or enclosures.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Thermal Transfer MA-232
What is the MA-232 used for?
The MA-232 removes heat from hydraulic oil, transmission fluid, engine oil, or lubrication oil by transferring that heat through a brazed-aluminum core to moving air.
What is the difference between MA and MAR versions of the MA-232?
MA identifies the standard cooler without a bypass. MAR identifies a configuration with a reversible relief bypass, available with a 30 or 60 PSI setting. The bypass helps protect the cooler from excessive differential pressure during cold starts and other high-viscosity conditions.
Is the fan or motor included?
The part number identifies a 12 VDC fan configuration. Always verify the complete part number and configuration before ordering because MA products can be supplied as core-only units or with different fan and motor options.
Can the cooler be used with synthetic hydraulic fluid?
The aluminum core can be used with many petroleum-based and synthetic fluids, but chemical compatibility, operating temperature, viscosity, and system cleanliness must be verified for the specific fluid formulation.
What maintenance does the cooler require?
Keep the air passages clean, remove debris without damaging the fins, verify fan operation, inspect the core and connections for leaks, and check mounting hardware and hoses. A clean core and unrestricted airflow are essential to maintaining published performance.
