Filters are very necessary for vehicles as they protect micro particles and pollutants from entering the engine and thus maintain performance. Similarly, air filters purify the air to form a proper air-fuel ratio for better functioning of the engine. However, there are different types of air cleaners for cars that one should consider when replacing them. Here’s all you need to know about different types of air filters in automobiles and the elements they are made up of.
DIFFERENT TYPES OF AIR FILTERS
Air filters are one of the common types of car filters. The primary function of an engine air filter is to clean dirt and debris from the air. The car owners need to select the right type of air filters according to the driving conditions and vehicles. Different types of air cleaners for an engine are:
- Oiled air filter
- Dry air filter
OILED AIR FILTER
The upgraded intake manifolds have oiled air filters because they allow more airflow and clean around 98% of air from the dirt. Oiled air filters are made up of cotton and can be cleaned easily. The oil on the filters restrict micropollutants to flow inside, and the large micron holes allow the air to flow more easily into the engine.
PROS
Oiled filters last more than dry air filters. They are washable and reusable, so you don’t have to buy a new one every time your filter gets dirty. All it will require is cleaning.
CONS
There is a concern that oil filters damage the mass air flow (MAF) sensor. This can only happen when you over-oil the filter while reapplying. The additional maintenance is a drawback of oiled air filters.
DRY AIR FILTER
Many Original equipment Manufacturers (OEM) design dry filters. Dry air filters are made up of paper or foam. They restrict more airflow but ensure 99% clean air to the engine. This is one of the types of air cleaners in cars which is generally effective for 10,000 to 15,000 miles.
PROS
Dry air filters require less maintenance. They are more suitable for dry and dusty conditions, which means if you are going on an off-road drive in the desert, these are best suited as oil filters will need constant clean up.
CONS
Dry filters can not be reused. Moreover, they restrict the airflow and can not be washed because of the material they are made up of. The dirt accumulation causes damage to the engine performance and fuel economy because of the reduced airflow.
These were two different types of air filters in an engine. These air filters can be further categorised according to their shapes.
SHAPES OF AIR FILTERS
Different types of air filters come in different shapes. Shapes of air filters affect the airflow. The two main types of air filter shapes are:
- Panel
- Cone
PANEL
This shape of air filters is like a flat plane. Plane air filters have a large surface area allowing more air to pass through. Most dry air filters have a panel shape. Panel shape can be tapered further or can also come in a rounded shape.
CONE
The cone shape funnels more air through it because of a larger surface area. Oiled air filters use cone shapes mostly. The cone shape allows air to flow at a uniform rate. To further increase the surface area, some manufacturers use inverted cone filter shape to further increase air flow.
TYPES OF AIR FILTER MATERIALS
PAPER AIR FILTER
Paper air filters are commonly used in modern vehicles. The paper is pleated to have more surface area. It can’t be reused, so it needs to be replaced after every 10,000 to 15,000 miles. They are relatively cheaper and provide good filtration. They are mostly preferred in dry and dusty driving conditions. These are suitable for every vehicle, and their cost ranges from AED 50 to AED 250.
COTTON AIR FILTER
It is also known as gauze air filter. Cotton gauze is one of the most used air filter materials as it allows more airflow to the intake manifold. These car air filters are common in oiled air filters. The main advantage that this material provides is its reusability and reliability. It is more expensive than the paper air filters as it requires a cleaner alongside. Its cost ranges from AED 100 to AED 300 and the cleaner cost range starts from AED 70.
Cotton/Gauze air filters are suitable for all types of vehicles. This type of air filter requires proper maintenance and cleaning after every 5,000 miles.
FOAM AIR FILTER
It is one of the inexpensive types of air filters. Foam air filter is considered for dust and dry driving conditions, and it is also preferred for lawn mower vehicles. These air filters require oil only if they are not pre-oiled. The pre-oiled foam air filters cost ranges from AED 40 to AED 150. However, these are not reusable and not as effective as paper and cotton air filters.
This was all about different types of air filters which are essential for engine performance and supplying clean air to the intake. If you witness any signs for bad air filters when you buy used cars in the UAE, make sure you follow the guide to changing air filters. Besides, if you are looking for other repairs and modifications in your car, you can find auto accessories in the UAE for reasonable prices.
Find more information on necessary auto parts, their symptoms and repairs on the UAE’s top auto blog.
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