What is the function of an engine air filter?
2 Answers
Air filter is designed to remove particulate impurities from the air. During operation, the engine needs to intake a large amount of air. If the air is not filtered, the suspended dust particles in the air will be drawn into the cylinders, accelerating the wear of piston assemblies and cylinders. Larger particles entering between pistons and cylinders can cause severe "cylinder scoring" phenomenon. Below is relevant information about air filters: 1. Types of air filters: Common air filters in engines mainly include inertial oil-bath air filters, paper dry-type air filters, and polyurethane filter element air filters. The inertial oil-bath air filter undergoes three-stage filtration: inertial filtration, oil-bath filtration, and filter-type filtration, while the latter two types mainly rely on filter elements for filtration. 2. Advantages and disadvantages: Various air filters each have their own pros and cons, but they inevitably face the contradiction between air intake volume and filtration efficiency. With in-depth research on air filters, the requirements for them are becoming increasingly higher.
The air filter acts as a barrier to prevent dust and impurities in the air from entering the engine, much like a mask for the engine. As someone who frequently focuses on car maintenance, I've found this component to be absolutely crucial—it protects internal parts like cylinders and pistons from wear and ensures cleaner combustion. If not replaced regularly, a clogged filter restricts airflow, leading to decreased power, increased fuel consumption, and even potential knocking or overheating. I recommend checking it every 10,000–20,000 kilometers, with more frequent replacements for those driving on dusty roads. It's a simple DIY job: just buy a new filter for a few dozen bucks and swap it out. This not only extends the engine's lifespan but also avoids costly overhauls. After replacement, the car runs smoother with noticeably quicker throttle response.
