Turbocharger

Question 1

What is a turbocharger?

Answer 1

A device in an engine that uses exhaust gases to compress air, increasing the engine’s power and efficiency.

Question 2

How do turbochargers function?

Answer 2

• Exhaust gases flow through the turbine section. Heat and pressure spin the turbine, which drives the compressor
• The compressor wheels draw in air through the air filter and intake pipe. The fins force air through a smaller chamber where it’s compressed and forced into the cylinder

Question 3

What is the role of the intercooler?

Answer 3

• Ensures the air temperature is at ambient levels
• Hot air passes through the fins for cooling and is redirected to the intake manifold

Question 4

What is the role of the wastegate?

Answer 4

• Controls exhaust gases passing through the turbocharger
• Prevents turbocharger from producing excessive pressure

Question 5

What is the role of the blow-off valve?

Answer 5

Releases pressure when the throttle is released, causing air to shoot out of the valve

Question 6

What is the role of boost controller?

Answer 6

• Adjusts the amount of pressure the turbo supplies to the cylinders
• Rated in PSI

Question 7

Describe the sequential twin turbo setup

Answer 7

• Two turbos, one low-powered or for low revs, the other high-powered or high revs
• This setup reduces lag when the throttle is applied

Question 8

Describe the parallel twin turbo setup

Answer 8

The work of each turbo is split separately to provide equal power output

Question 9

How does a twin scroll turbo setup function?

Answer 9

• Exhausts exits cylinder in a pulse
• Cylinder separated in pairs to prevent interference with pulses
• Continuous stream of max pressure exhaust reaches the turbine

Question 10

Describe the pros and cons of Turbochargers over Superchargers

Answer 10

• High efficiency as it uses waste energy from exhaust gases
• Turbo lag occurs as time is taken to build turbine speed and pressure
• More complex to install and maintain