Water gets into the air intake primarily because it's drawn in along with the air needed for the engine to function, especially during wet weather conditions.
Several factors contribute to this:
- Wet Weather Operation: When vehicles or equipment operate in rain, snow, or even high humidity, moisture is readily available in the environment.
- Airflow and Suction: The air intake system is designed to pull air into the engine. This suction effect can draw in airborne water droplets.
- Vehicle Speed: Higher speeds, particularly in on-highway vehicles, increase the rate at which air (and any entrained water) is drawn into the intake.
- Splash and Spray: Water can be splashed or sprayed upwards from the road surface by tires, other vehicles, or wind. This water can then enter the air intake.
Essentially, the air intake system can act like a vacuum cleaner, pulling in air, and unfortunately, any water mixed with it, from the surrounding environment.
