Discover Why Aircraft Tires Are Filled ONLY with Nitrogen, Not Air!
Image Description - Main Landing Gear Assembly
Nitrogen is an inert gas, meaning it doesn't react with other substances. This helps reduce the oxidation of tire materials, extending their lifespan.
Imagine you’re planning a journey to two extreme destinations: one is a freezing Arctic landscape, and the other is a scorching desert. At these extremes, the air is harsh, unpredictable, and unwelcoming. Now, think of nitrogen as the travel companion who’s perfectly suited to these extremes; it’s calm, stable, and doesn't react much to the environment. Unlike oxygen or other gases, nitrogen doesn’t get excited or "change" when temperatures shift or pressure fluctuates. It stays the same no matter if you’re in the intense cold or heat.
The triple bond between 2 Nitrogen atoms makes the gas (N₂) very stable and relatively unreactive under normal and some extreme conditions.
Now, picture your aircraft tires as the vehicle for this journey. The air inside needs to be reliable, not prone to sudden changes or reactions that could lead to problems. Oxygen, for example, is like that companion who might get excited and "overreact" when conditions change, causing issues like increased pressure or even oxidation that could damage the tire. Nitrogen, on the other hand, is steady and unbothered by extreme temperatures, keeping the tire pressure stable and ensuring a smoother, safer ride through the unpredictable heights of the sky. That’s why aircraft tires are filled with nitrogen, it’s the perfect travel companion for such a volatile environment!