Torre Automotive has launched the Airflow range of snorkels as part of its Weekend Warrior brand offering, an initiative for 4x4 enthusiasts to participate in a weekend outdoor entity.  

The snorkel is fitted to four wheel drive vehicles to protect the engine from dust, sand and water. It allows the engine to have an intake of cleaner, fresh air, taken from the level of the windscreen and provides better fuel consumption.  

Leonard Chester, product manager - Vehicle Accessories, Torre Automotive, said the Airflow range is designed to fit different vehicles. “Additional benefits can be obtained from a well designed Snorkel. This is where the Airflow Cold Air Induction System (ACAIS) provides enhanced functionality.”  

“Not all snorkel body designs produce a cold air induction effect. This effect improves fuel efficiency and engine power. Airflow has been conducting airflow studies, friction loss assessments and performance testing in its laboratories for many years to achieve this effect,” he said.   “In the past, physical presentation took a back-step to the snorkel’s operational capabilities. However, in recent years, Airflow’s customer base has become more discerning about the appearance of the snorkels. This motivated Airflow to refine the look and fit.”  

“Like many examples in nature, the study of airflow trajectory and pressure gave birth to shapes with ‘perfect fit to purpose’ where elegance and efficiency are combined. The new range of ACAIS was born, one which increases the performance and efficiency of the 4WD.”  

“The ACAIS harvests fresh air at roof level where it is the least disturbed.  This air is less contaminant and is cooler than air absorbed from the engine bay. When the air is cooler, it contains more oxygen.”  

“In addition, modern vehicles are fitted with engine management systems. These are computers which measure accurately in real-time all inputs available to the engine to improve efficiency. Consequently, the availability of cooler air inflow results in more power and torque,” said Mr Chester . Air entering the Air Ram swirls violently, creating a cyclonic effect. The heaviest particles are ejected by the centrifugal force to the periphery of the swirl. There, they hit the vertical ribs where air pressure takes over to eject them out of the four slots at the base of the Air Ram. At this point, the air pressure pushes them out. The finer particles that are not ejected are removed by the vehicle air filter.  

“It is therefore preferable for the Air Ram to have an open face without a screen because the screen deflects the airflow. Incorrect Air Ram design may cause excessive induction noise, lack of separation and air blocking by vortex at various speeds. This air blocking will limit airflow. This is a common occurrence when ‘looks’ take priority over functionality,” he said.   

If the Air Ram is moulded on the body of the snorkel (for aesthetic reasons), it does not provide particle separation, thus all contaminants need to be removed by the internal air filter. This increases the maintenance cycle of the air cleaner. Furthermore, this configuration may cause a vacuum into the snorkel, thus increasing the risk of engine damage  

“The Airflow Snorkel’s 3” Ram has a 3.5:1 induction capabilities than standard snorkels. It is made from quality polyethylene plastic with UV resistance and the thermo plastic rubber hose is rated up to 135 degrees celcius,” he said.   Stainless steel clamps on A-Pillar brackets with a 6mm screw instead of 8mm prevent the pillar from being damaged off-road.  

The Airflow snorkels will be available for Toyota HiLux and Fortuner, Land Cruiser, LandRover and Ford Ranger being brands that are popularly used for off-road activities. The introduction of the VW Amarok snorkel will take place later in 2015.  

The Airflow range will be available from Mid May 2015 from leading distributors including Safari Centre, LA Sports – HQ, Pretoria, Namibia, Nelspruit and other independent dealers such as Burco, Barakha, HBL, Creative Wheels, Polyguard, Safari Centre CT, Safari 4x4 and Cymot Namibia.