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The Air Oil Separator (AOS) / Catch Can is an important part in an engine and it serves three main purposes, such as to;
- Prevent oil and contaminants from entering the intake system
- Reduce carbon deposits on the intake valves
- Separate the oil vapors, allowing only clean air to return to the intake.
These systems are integral part of the engine as they lead to improved engine performance and efficiency. As a car engine runs, it produces blow-by gases which largely contain oil vapors and contaminated gases. The thing is, if it happens that these gases re-enter the intake system, it can lead to carbon buildup on the intake valves and reduce engine efficiency. This is where the AOS or Catch Can comes in, these products intercepts these contaminants and separates the oil vapors from clean air, and for the case of AOS allowing only clean air to return to the intake.
What are the differences between the Air Oil Separator (AOS) and Catch Can
We have made it clear that these systems share the same function, but you may be wondering what their differences are, a knowledge that may inform your purchasing decisions. The thing is that apart from their names, which are the obviously different, these systems have different designs, maintenance, and cost.
Catch Cans
Catch cans have a simpler design and require a little bit of human interference to manual drain the collected oil and contaminants. Catch cans collects oil vapors and contaminants in a single chamber, and compared to the Air Oil Separator, it does not return the cleaned air to the intake. Their biggest downside is definitely the periodic manual draining required to remove the collected oil and contaminants.
The Air Oil Separator
AOS has a more sophisticated design with multiple chambers and baffles which leads to a more efficient oil separation process. AOS is different from catch cans in that it returns the cleaned air to the intake system, it also requires less frequent maintenance, and it protect the engines long term against carbon buildup in the intake system. The down side of this system maybe it’s cost, as Catch Cans are more budget friendly due to their simple design.
There are many factors to consider when you are deciding which one to buy, things like;
- your budget,
- your vehicle needs,
- the level of maintenance you are comfortable with,
- personal preference and more.
We can’t decide for you, but what we can tell you is that the more efficient option is the AOS, but for car enthusiasts who are looking for a cost-effective solution to address blow-by issues, the most affordable and accessible option is the Catch Can. You decide, and do not hesitate to contact us for questions or if you need more information on products in our shop. You can reach us by phone at 1-480-966-3040 or via email at sales@vividracing.com.
