Q With so many companies offering bottle valves that claim to have the highest flow rate, how do I choose the correct valve?

A There are basically two types of valves. The first being the standard flow valve which has an orifice size anywhere from 1/8-inch (.125) to 3/16-inch (.187).  These valves will support from approximately 200 - 300 horsepower. The high flow, super high flow, and super duper high flow valves all have a 5/16-inch (.312) orifice. These valves will support horsepower ranges up to (and including) 600-plus horsepower. Note the obvious difference in orifice size in the companion photos. Flow rates are primarily regulated by orifice size. The internal orifice size of basically all nitrous oxide valves follow CGA (Compressed Gas Association) guidelines and are 5/16-inch (or .312 maximum) for safety reasons. Flow tests show that (allowing a margin for error); all of these valves flow about the same. Some custom valves do exist. However, we believe that there are safety issues with these valves. The rule of thumb regarding flow rates is as follows. Anytime the orifice size is increased by a half size, the flow rate is doubled (approximately). For example, if you were to have a .300 valve that you enlarged to .450, your flow rate would increase approximately double (providing all other factors are equal). Also note that the valves with higher flow rates have a gauge port. The photo shows graphically the difference between the 3/16-inch and 5/16-inch valves.

Q Do I need a purge?

A Nitrous systems have a tendency to trap gaseous nitrous oxide in the lines.
Purging (burping) ensures a full charge of liquid nitrous oxide at the solenoids and liquid nitrous oxide provides maximum power. The purge kit consists of a small inline solenoid mounted just before the nitrous solenoid that exhausts on the outlet side, thereby purging any gaseous nitrous oxide trapped in the lines.

Q What size siphon tube do I need?

A Here again, there are basically two sizes of siphon tubes. While there may be several different configurations, the two common sizes are 3/8-inch and 1/2-inch.
The 3/8 siphon tube will support up to about 300 horsepower. It is essential to run a 1/2-inch siphon tubes on systems making over 300 horsepower. The photo shows the difference in 3/8 and 1/2-inch siphon tubes.

Q Where can I get answers to my technical questions, as well as technical support?

A Nitrous Supply offers free technical support. Our tech support team is second to none in the industry. With 35 years of combined experience, Wady Hamam, Mike Flynn and Shaun Snow are known industry wide to be the people with the answers when it comes to nitrous oxide tech. You can get your free tech support by simply calling (714) 373-1986. DR