Turbocharger: Definition, Function & How It Works!

The term "turbocharger" may already be familiar to automotive enthusiasts. Initially, turbocharger technology was only used in diesel-powered vehicles, but now gasoline engines can also utilize this technology. Turbochargers are often associated with high-performance cars like racing or sports vehicles. But what is the actual function of a turbocharger in a car? Find the answer in the following article.

 

Many modern car brands have embraced turbocharger technology, including Chevrolet, Mercedes Benz, BMW, Honda, Isuzu, and Toyota. Turbochargers come in various types, allowing them to be tailored to the specifications of your car's engine. In the GIIAS 2023 exhibition, various cars equipped with advanced technologies like turbochargers will be showcased. This event will provide you with a clearer understanding of car specifications and components, such as the type of turbocharger used. So, how does a turbocharger work? Let's read on and explore this article until the end for a comprehensive explanation!

 

Definition of Turbocharger

The turbocharger was first invented by Swiss engineer Alfred Büchi in the early 1900s. It is a component, a form of technology, installed in a car's engine, usually placed in the exhaust gas stream. Its main purpose is to enhance the engine's power by increasing the volume of air entering the engine's combustion chamber. You might find labels like "VGT," "VNT," or "VCDI" on cars, indicating the turbocharger technology used.

 

Function of Turbocharger

The primary function of a turbocharger is to boost the engine's power. It achieves this by compressing air and directing it into the engine's cylinders. The turbocharger employs the principle of forced induction, using exhaust gas from the vehicle to supply and channel compressed air into the combustion chamber. Forced induction is the process of delivering compressed air to the engine as an additional element for the combustion process, resulting in higher output performance. Another function of the turbocharger is to increase engine torque and power, enhance fuel efficiency, upgrade small engine specifications to more substantial ones, and reduce engine exhaust emissions.

 

Read also: Unfamiliar with the Difference Between Torque and Horsepower? Read More Here

 

How Turbocharger Works

The turbocharger operates when the engine reaches a certain RPM (Revolutions Per Minute), as the turbine will start spinning when there is sufficient exhaust gas pressure. The faster the engine's rotation, the stronger the flow of exhaust gas generated. A turbocharger consists of two turbines located on the same shaft, utilizing the hot airflow from the engine's exhaust gas to increase air pressure and density in the combustion chamber.

 

The exhaust gas is directed towards the turbocharger's turbine, which causes it to spin. The remaining energy in the exhaust gas drives the turbocharger's shaft and rotates the turbine within it. Both components are on the same shaft, allowing the air that rotates the turbine to also rotate the compressor. The compressor utilizes mechanical energy to draw in more outside air into the engine's combustion chamber. The rotational speed achieved inside the turbo can reach up to 150,000 RPM or 30 times faster than a regular car engine's rotation.

 

Components of Turbocharger

Here are the components present in a turbocharger:

 

1. Compressor

This component functions to convert mechanical energy into kinetic energy in the airflow. It is located on the same shaft as the turbine, so the compressor will rotate at the same speed when exhaust gas spins the turbine.

 

2. Turbine

The turbine consists of the turbine wheel and the turbine housing. Its role is to convert the heat energy of the fluid into mechanical energy of turbine rotation. The fluid is processed into hot power that rotates the shaft in the turbocharger component. The turbine housing acts as a guide for exhaust gas towards the turbine wheel. The energy obtained from the exhaust gas will rotate the turbine wheel, and the gas will be expelled through the exhaust area.

 

3. Connecting Rod

This component serves as a connector between the compressor and the turbine. Both components are connected and undergo a diffusion process to produce more air to assist in fuel combustion.

 

Read also: Top 10 Fastest Cars in the World 2023

 

4. Types of Turbocharger

Turbochargers are available in various types, including single and twin turbochargers, twin-scroll turbochargers, variable geometry turbochargers, variable twin-scroll turbochargers, and electric turbochargers. Generally, there are three types of turbochargers used in cars, namely:

• Turbocharger

This turbocharger uses engine exhaust gas as the driving force for the turbine. The advantage of this turbocharger is that the air intake obtained will be stronger, resulting in a faster rotation. However, you need to include an intercooler in the car's engine to control the air temperature passing through.

• Supercharger

This type uses engine pulley power, connected to the compressor charger using a special belt. The advantage of a supercharger is that the power output does not face air temperature issues like a turbocharger.

• Electric Charger

The electric charger uses an electric motor for its operation. The advantage of this type is that it eliminates problems with intake air temperature and interference with the engine.

 

 

Advantages of Turbocharger

Cars equipped with turbochargers have several benefits, including:

1. Fuel efficiency

2. Environmentally friendly

3. Increased diesel power

4. Reduced noise

 

However, turbochargers also have some drawbacks, such as turbo lag, which is a delay in response time when the driver presses the gas pedal. When using a turbocharger, the engine requires regular maintenance. Regular oil changes are necessary to prevent turbocharger damage. Additionally, it is advisable to reduce speed before parking and turn off the engine when parked to prevent the buildup of heat in the engine compartment, which could damage the turbocharger.

 

If you need a rental car for personal or office use, choose a reliable car rental service. One of the trusted rental car providers in Jakarta is MPMRent. MPMRent currently has 8 branch offices and 18 representative branches spread across Indonesia. MPMRent always ensures that the cars are in the best condition for your driving comfort. Please contact the nearest rental car service in your city.