Nitrogen (N2) is used to inflate the wheels of cars and many vehicles instead of regular air. Is that really useful? We’ll try to answer this question in today’s article, dear reader…
Introduction
One of the most important functions of the wheel is to carry the car’s weight, but it’s the compressed air inside that actually supports it. Therefore, using the appropriate pressure in the wheels enables them to bear the car’s weight and maintain performance, which also helps reduce fuel consumption.
Wheels are usually inflated with regular air, which is 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, and 1% various gases. Since gases expand with heat and contract with cold, air pressure changes with temperature, approximately 1 PSI (pound per square inch) for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Experts advise checking tire pressure in the early morning before the sun’s heat or driving affects them.
Nitrogen Gas in Car Tires
To maintain relatively constant air pressure, you can use this gas instead of regular air to inflate your car’s wheels. This gas has been used for years in the wheels of racing cars (Formula 1, Nascar, etc.), airplanes (both commercial and military), and heavy machinery (trucks and bulldozers). Studies also highlight the benefits of using nitrogen in the wheels of light vehicles and motorcycles.
Benefits
- Constant Pressure: N2 molecules are larger than oxygen molecules, reducing gas leakage through the rubber, thus maintaining tire pressure.
- Reduced Moisture: Nitrogen eliminates water vapor in the wheels, minimizing pressure changes due to temperature fluctuations. This results in more stable tire pressure while driving.
- Improved Fuel Efficiency and Control: Proper tire pressure reduces fuel consumption and enhances driving control. It also extends tire life by reducing wear caused by incorrect pressure levels.
- Prevent Rust: Regular air contains oxygen and moisture, which can cause rust. N2 significantly reduces these elements, prolonging the tire’s life.
- Safety: Nitrogen is non-flammable and safer than compressed air, reducing the risk of explosion or fire in accidents.
Filling Tires with Nitrogen
Although inflating wheels with nitrogen doesn’t achieve 100% purity, a 95% purity level is recommended. This can be done by deflating the tires (to about 3 PSI) and refilling them with nitrogen several times.
Should You Use it?
In general, inflating car wheels with nitrogen offers many benefits. If this service is available at a reasonable price, the ArabGT team encourages you to use it. However, if it’s expensive, you can maintain your tires by regularly checking and adjusting the pressure with a tire pressure gauge according to your car’s manual.
