Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Radiator:
Purpose:The primary function of a radiator is to maintain the engine's operating temperature by cooling the engine coolant.
How it works:Hot coolant circulates from the engine to the radiator, where heat is dissipated to the air passing over its fins, then the cooled coolant returns to the engine.
Location:Typically located at the front of the vehicle, behind the grille, to maximize airflow.
Inter cooler:
Purpose:An inter cooler cools the compressed air coming from a turbocharger or supercharger, increasing its density for better combustion and engine performance.
How it works:Compressed, hot air flows through the inter cooler, where it's cooled by ambient air, before entering the engine's intake manifold.
Location:Usually positioned between the turbocharger/supercharger and the engine intake manifold.
Necessity:Only needed in vehicles with forced induction (turbochargers or superchargers).