For the week I have been reading all these "theories" on the intercooler - aftercooler
ATI vs Vortech systems. I think it's time I put in my .02 worth, I am not an expert
but I do have a little experience with this subject.
Rule #1 - When air is compressed, the byproduct is heat. So in a supercharged
application, the greater the boost level (more air is compressed) the greater the
temperature deta across the supercharger. The heat generated from the compressed air
is in addition to the ambient air temperature.
Rule #2 - Knowing rule #1- wether it be inter/after cooling a supercharged application
will produce more power. Both inter/after cooling serve the same function. They both
lower the blower outlet temperature before interring the engine. Cooler air is more
dense and can handle more fuel to be saturated per volume. More air and more fuel
equals more power. (intercooling vs aftercooling is an entirely different subject for
later evaluation)
Rule #3 - ATI intercooler system vs Vortech non-inter/after cooled system. Both kits
in their base form produce equivalent horsepower numbers. However, this is comparing
apple to oranges. The ATI must use a intercooler because the head unit is less
efficient than the Vortech. At any given rpm more heat is generated with a less
efficient blower. Boost vs rpm and efficiency vs rpm are a direct relationship to
impeller design. ATI uses a T-56 billet straight impeller design. Vortech uses a
lightweight curved cast impeller design. The straight billet impeller is less
efficient than the curved cast impeller. This is the main difference between the two
that affect efficiency. If you compare the ATI to the Vortech both being inter/after
cooled the Vortech will make significantly more power. Same thing if you compare the
two blower without an inter/after cooler.
Hence the two kits - Intercooling is a MUST on the ATI and optional on the Vortech.
Fit, finish, and driveability are another issue that I will not go into but suffice it
to say that Vortech is the winner hands down. Some of you might think I am Vortech
biased, yes I am somewhat (they sponsor my car), but thin about this: My concern is
power (I am a drag racer), so if the ATI could produce better results than I WOULD
have one. I run an aftercooled T-Trim on my DOHC and it's making ~690rwhp or 800+ at
the crank.
Now when you step up to the ATI D-2 things change, they are making big power with good
results. But, I doubt anyone on this board needs a Pro race blower on his/he daily
driver.
So in conclusion for the average person the Vortech is the clear and decisive winner!
Just my .02 worth!
Joe Stewart
96 Vobra #6741
10.60 at 134.4mph
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