Turbocharger for a passenger vehicle is a forced induction system that increases engine power and torque by compressing intake air. It's powered by exhaust gas, which spins a turbine connected to a compressor, forcing more air into the engine. This allows smaller engines to achieve the power of larger, naturally aspirated engines while potentially improving fuel efficiency under certain conditions.
How it works:
Exhaust Gas Turbine: The turbocharger utilizes the energy from the engine's exhaust gases.
Turbine Shaft: This exhaust gas energy spins a turbine wheel connected to a shaft.
Compressor: The turbine shaft also spins a compressor wheel.
Intake Air Compression: The compressor compresses the air drawn into the engine.
Increased Air Mass: The compressed air, containing more oxygen, is then fed into the cylinders, allowing for more fuel to be burned and more power to be generated.
Benefits:
Increased Power and Torque:
Turbochargers allow smaller engines to achieve higher power output and torque compared to naturally aspirated engines.
Potential Fuel Efficiency:
Under certain driving conditions, turbocharged engines can offer better fuel economy than larger, naturally aspirated engines.
Downsizing Engines:
Turbochargers enable engine downsizing, which reduces emissions and potentially improves fuel economy.
