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Cryogenic Process Frequently Asked Questions

1. What it is that makes the Cryogenic-Superfinish LLC cryogenic process special?
   Cryogenic Superfinish (CSF) uses a very precise direct contact cryogenic procedure consistent with that commonly used by the aerospace defense industry.
   
   
2. What does direct contact cryogenic treatment really mean?
   "Direct contact" cryogenics is a procedure where the components being treated are systematically submerged in liquid nitrogen, for a period of time.
   
   
3. How long will it take to process my components?
   Allow 10-14 days depending on the size and scope of the project.
   
   
4. Will I really notice a difference?
   That depends on many factors. If you are developing an engine, utilizing top notch machining and assembly practices, tune accordingly you will notice a substantial and quantifiable gain in power and accelerated velocity in heat transfer.
   
   
5. I heard that liquid nitrogen can warp or crack my heads or block?
   Not true. By using a carefully controlled and precise decent rate there is little or no risk with anything warping or cracking. This does not mean however that a casting flaw or hidden crack will not become obvious after treatment. Also, any machine work should be performed after treatment due to the fact that any residual stresses will be reduced therefore any previously machined surfaces can move around and become slightly out of true. This is a good thing; now you know stress has been released and when everything is touched up (deck, cylinders, mains, heads etc.) they will remain in spec during dynamic operating conditions. The results; more power, less wear and heat.
   
   
6. I have been told that cryogenic treatment makes everything brittle?
   Not true! This can happen with certain types of steel alloys only if they are not properly heat tempered after the cryogenic process. CSF uses a special tempering oven to properly temper the materials that require such.
   
   
7. Can CSF process an assembled engine?
   Yes. Single cylinder go kart and motorcycle engines are routinely processed assembled. However, maximum results are realized when engines are processed disassembled as part of a machine/build strategy designed to fully exploit the CSF cryogenic process. Also, sealed spec engines that cannot be disassembled can be processed (up to 4 cylinders) this will provide a decisive and undetectable advantage. There is some risk to certain types of rubber seals.
   
   
8. Will the CSF cryogenic process make my engine faster?
   Yes; especially when the cryogenic process is properly exploited during the machining and tuning phase.
   
   
9. What can CSF process?
   Almost anything weighing less than 2000 pounds.
   
   
10. Why do some people think that cryogenic does not do much if anything?
    Because there are very few if any commercially available cryogenic processes that are modeled after the procedures used within the aerospace industry.
    
    
11. Is the CSF cryogenic process worth the money?
    YES!
    
    
12. Why does my engine builder tell me "If cryogenics really made a difference they would be doing it?
    Your engine builder has not been exposed to aerospace grade cryogenics, where temps are held below a critical number for an extended time period; days, not hours.
    
    
13. Will I have to tune the engine differently?
    Yes; to fully exploit the dramatic increase in heat transfer velocity the engine will respond positively to anything that will intensify heat in the combustion chamber. The pistons will tolerate much higher combustion temps before melting. Ring land integrity is also much improved.
    
    
14. Will any tolerances be changed as a result of the cryogenic process?
    Usually not.
    
    
15. Will I notice a reduction in operating temperatures?
    Yes; especially when the radiator and oil cooler are treated. This will allow racers to tape up the nose of the car, to take advantage of the improved aerodynamics.
    
    
16. Can CSF process brake and clutch components?
    Yes; brake rotors, calipers and pads especially demonstrate improved heat dissipation and resistance to cracking.
    
    
17. Can CSF consult with my engine builder?
    Yes.
    
    
18. Can CSF meet industrial production needs?
    Yes.
    
    
19. Can I just cryogenically treat individual components (i.e.: block or heads)
    Yes, but why stop there? It is the totality of all the details that really add up to something really noticeable.
    
    
20. Will cryogenics help radiators, oil coolers and intercoolers be more efficient?
    Yes; the result will be a reduction or reduced air inlet requirement thus providing an aerodynamic opportunity.
    
    
21. I've heard cryogenics is just BS?
    True, but not true if you use CSF.
    
    
22. What about spark plugs, wires and other ignition components?
    The CSF process will benefit these components enabling the use of wider spark plug gaps for greater combustion efficiency.
    
    
23. Does CSF guarantee my parts won't crack or break?
    No. CSF has no control over how the components were manufactured or used. If there is any undetectable flaw particularly in a casting (cast iron, alum magnesium etc.) that flaw will generally manifest itself in a huge crack or break completely. You might say that the CSF cryogenic process is the ultimate quality control check. NOTE: it is very rare to have a component failure during our cryogenic process. We have never had any type of failure with components that have passed a competent magnaflux or zyglo test; however we do not assume any responsibility for any type of failure.
    
    
24. I had my race engine cryogenically treated and now it runs too cold?
    Tape up the radiator inlet, use hotter plugs and raise the compression. These are some ways to exploit the CSF cryogenic processing.
    
    
25. I cryogenically treated my engine and now it makes less power?
    The CSF cryogenic process must be used as part of a complete engine build strategy that will entail exploiting all of the positive benefits of increased heat transfer velocity and an engine with more stable tolerances in the dynamic condition. When this is done the results are amazing!
    
    
26. Can CSF cryogenically process aircraft or diesel engines?
    Yes, however these engines require more time and a larger investment to process.
    
    
27. Should I have my engine parts cryogenically treated before or after machine work?
    More positive results are gained by processing the engine before any machining. Residual stresses are reduced or removed completely. Machined dimensions can move slightly, thus machining after treatment will ensure a more stable engine during dynamic conditions. Result; more power, longer life and lower temps.
    
    
28. Why should I cryogenically treat my crankshaft if it's not prone to failure?
    The CSF cryogenic process will transform the crankshaft into a more stable and longer lasting component. More importantly, this process will improve the crankshafts ability to cope with the harmonic and torsional vibrations at elevated RPM's enabling more precise ignition timing and reduced parasitic drag.
    
    
29. How much does CSF charge to cryo an engine?
    CSF LLC specializes in providing aerospace grade cryogenic treatment to complete engine and drive train components to the most advanced engine builders. Prices are project specific. Feel free to complete our "Request for Quote" form and we will be glad to provide you with an accurate quote for your particular application.