An oil catch can is a component used in automotive applications to capture and prevent oil vapors from the engine's crankcase ventilation system from entering the intake system. The catch can is designed to separate oil particles from the air that is recirculated back into the intake, preventing the oil from contaminating the intake air and potentially causing carbon buildup in the engine.
Here's how it generally works:
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Crankcase Ventilation System: Internal combustion engines produce gases and vapors as a byproduct of the combustion process. These gases need to be vented to prevent pressure buildup in the crankcase. The crankcase ventilation system allows these gases to be routed back into the engine intake to be burned again.
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Oil Vapors: Along with the gases, there are also oil vapors present in the crankcase gases. These oil vapors can contribute to carbon deposits in the intake manifold and on the intake valves, affecting engine performance and efficiency over time.
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Oil Catch Can: In most setup, the oil catch can is installed in the crankcase ventilation system. It contains baffles or a mesh to trap and separate the oil vapors from the air. The collected oil is then stored in the catch can, preventing it from reaching the intake system.
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Maintenance: Periodically, the catch can needs to be emptied or cleaned to ensure it continues to function effectively.
Radium Engineering is a company that produces aftermarket performance parts for various vehicles, including oil catch cans. Their oil catch cans are designed to be high-quality and effective in preventing oil contamination of the intake system.
When considering a Radium oil catch can or any catch can for your vehicle, it's important to ensure compatibility with your specific make and model. Additionally, some catch cans come with additional features, such as built-in filters or drain valves, that can make maintenance easier. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation and maintenance.