The Thermostatic Control Valve regulates how much lube oil is cooled and how much bypasses the cooler to keep the oil within its optimum operating temperature range. Using a wax-filled thermal capsule, the valve continuously modulates as temperature changes—protecting bearings from the damage caused by oil that is too cold or too hot. This overview explains real operating behavior on the Solar Mars, including why the valve often ends up in full-cooler mode in the field.
