Drag Racers Are Ditching Superchargers for Scuba-Style Tanks and Compressed Air
a year ago
- #drag-racing
- #performance
- #supercharging
- Compressed Air Supercharging (CAS) is an emerging technology in drag racing, replacing traditional turbos and superchargers.
- CAS force-feeds oxygen into the engine without requiring horsepower or exhaust air, providing extremely cold and dense air for power.
- The system uses carbon fiber tanks storing air at 3,300 psi, with a computer-controlled setup allowing adjustable boost levels (typically around 10 psi).
- Benefits include lower engine stress due to cooler, denser air and compatibility with lower-octane fuels like 91 pump gas.
- CAS is particularly effective in automatic cars with transmission brakes, engaging boost just before launch for immediate power.
- Notable users include racers Tina and Dave Pierce, who achieve 1,600 horsepower in their Chevy Colorado, and Ryan Mitchell with his Firebird.
- Refilling the air tanks requires specialized equipment, not a regular shop compressor.
- While still niche, CAS has potential to challenge traditional power adders in drag racing.