Everything You Need to Know About Nitrogen Gas For Tires
Regarding tyre maintenance, using the appropriate filling petrol may increase performance, efficiency and lifetime. Nitrogen gas is becoming a popular alternative to ordinary air, but is it OK for your vehicle?
This guide covers everything you need to know about nitrogen gas for tires.
What is Nitrogen Gas and Why Use It for Tires?
Nitrogen gas is a dry, inert gas that is commonly used in industries such as aircraft, racing, and heavy machinery. It is now making its way into consumer vehicles due to its unique features. Unlike ordinary air, which is made up of 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, and trace gases, nitrogen used in tires is far purer typically more than 93%.
Nitrogen's primary advantage is its ability to keep tyre pressure stable for longer periods of time, resulting in improved performance and reduced maintenance requirements.
Nitrogen filling Shops in UAE
If you're in the UAE and looking to fill your tires with nitrogen, here are some service centers across various emirates:
Dubai:
- iTyreCare: Offers nitrogen gas services to help maintain tire pressure longer.
- Quick Tyres Auto Care: Provides nitrogen filling services at AED 10 per tire.
- New Bharath Pitstop: Specializes in nitrogen air filling services for vehicle tires at affordable rates.
- Presto Tyres: Promises top-notch services to keep your tires in optimal condition.
- ProShop: Provides nitrogen filling services aimed at enhancing tire lifespan and driving comfort.
Abu Dhabi:
Al Fatah Tyres: Offers comprehensive tire services, including nitrogen filling, to meet all your tire needs.
Sharjah:
ProShop: Extends its nitrogen filling services to Sharjah, focusing on improving tire longevity and overall mileage.
Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, and Umm Al Quwain:
While specific service centers in these emirates are not listed in the provided sources, many local tire shops and auto service centers offer nitrogen filling services. It's advisable to contact nearby tire service providers to inquire about nitrogen filling availability.
How Nitrogen Differs From Regular Air?
While regular air already has a lot of nitrogen, it also has oxygen and moisture. These additional components may cause:
- The smaller molecular size of oxygen causes faster pressure loss.
- Increased oxidation of the tire's rubber causes faster wear.
- Moisture inside the tire, which can influence pressure stability during temperature fluctuations.
Nitrogen, being a larger molecule and free of moisture, provides a more stable and efficient alternative.
Benefits of Nitrogen Gas in Tires:
- Maintains pressure better: Molecules are larger than oxygen molecules, which means they escape from tires more slowly. This can help maintain tire pressure more consistently, improving fuel efficiency and tire life.
- Reduces tire temperature: Nitrogen has a higher heat capacity than air, meaning it can absorb more heat without increasing in pressure. This can help keep tires cooler, especially during high-speed driving or in hot weather.
- Reduces tire wear: Cooler running tires experience less wear and tear, which can extend their lifespan.
- Improves ride quality: Consistent tire pressure can improve ride comfort and handling.
- Reduces corrosion: Nitrogen is a dry gas that doesn't promote oxidation, which can help prevent corrosion of the tire and rim.
Drawbacks of Nitrogen Gas in Tyres:
- Cost: Typically more expensive than regular air.
- Availability: Nitrogen filling stations may not be as readily available as regular air compressors.
- Minimal performance difference: While gas offers some benefits, the difference in performance compared to regular air may be minimal for most drivers.
Is nitrogen gas worth it?
For most drivers, the benefits may not justify the additional cost. However, drivers who frequently drive at high speeds, tow heavy loads, or live in hot climates may experience more noticeable benefits.
Here's a quick summary table:
Feature |
Nitrogen Gas |
Regular Air |
Composition |
Primarily nitrogen |
Nitrogen, oxygen, other gases |
Pressure maintenance |
Better |
Poorer |
Temperature |
Cooler |
Warmer |
Wear |
Reduced |
Increased |
Ride quality |
Improved |
Decreased |
Corrosion |
Reduced |
Increased |
Cost |
Higher |
Lower |
Availability |
Lower |
Higher |
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use nitrogen gas in your tires is a personal one. If you're looking for a slight performance edge and are willing to pay a premium, nitrogen gas may be a good option. However, for most drivers, regular air will be sufficient.
FAQs
1. Is nitrogen safe for all types of tires?
Yes, nitrogen can be used in all types of tires, including those for cars, SUVs, and trucks.
2. Can I mix nitrogen with regular air?
While mixing is not harmful, it dilutes the benefits of nitrogen. It’s best to refill with pure nitrogen whenever possible.
3. How often should I refill nitrogen in my tires?
Nitrogen refills are needed less frequently than regular air, but it’s still essential to check your tire pressure regularly.