Cold air intakes are aftermarket vehicle parts, configured for drawing low-temperature air in order to enhance the engine performance. Have you ever thought how does a cold air intake work? Here is some information about working of a cold air intake.
The performance of an engine depends on various factors, one of which is the combustion of fuel. As we all know, oxygen (air) is a basic necessity for burning fuel. In simpler terms, a mixture of air and gasoline is important for igniting the engine and determining its performance. A cold air intake is a technology designed for drawing cold air from outside into a vehicle’s internal combustion engine for enhancing the engine efficacy. Let’s discuss in brief on how does a cold air intake work.

Working of a Cold Air Intake

As compared to the regular preheated air intake inside the engine, low-temperature air has higher density (for a specific volume) which is charged with more power. When the dense cold air enters into the engine, it is mixed with the fuel. The compressed air and fuel mixture expands more after being heated, resulting in greater combustion and higher horsepower. Prior to the implementation of cold air intake systems, car racers used containers for adding dry ice, which were placed adjacent to the carburetor for a greater engine mileage.

A cold air intake system allows more air to enter the engine. Consequently, the oxygen received for fuel combustion is enhanced, thus resulting in better engine performance. Overall, a cold air intake works by increasing the rate of airflow in the internal combustion engine of the vehicle. As air is drawn faster, the heat absorption is less. One of the drawbacks of a cold air intake is increase in the chances of hydrolock, in which moisture or water is introduced inside the engine when a vehicle passes a flooded road.
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