Turbocharger Flashcards
1 What is the function of a Turbocharger?
A turbocharger is used to boost the intake air pressure of internal combustion engine and by doing so, provide boost for the engine.
What are the main components of the Turbocharger?
- Turbine Wheel and Housing.
- Turbo Shaft
- Compressor Wheel and Housing
- Bearing Housing
How does the Turbocharger work? 4 steps.
- Hot exhaust gases from the exhaust manifold flow into the turbine housing, striking the fins on the turbine wheel, turning it.
- The turbine is connected via the turbo shaft to the compressor wheel and begins to rotate the compressor wheel.
- Air is pulled in by the compressor wheel under higher pressure than atmospheric pressure.
- The centrifugal force produced by the compressor wheel, throws the compressed air outwards, out of the housing and into the cylinders.
Why is important to provide the Turbocharger with proper oil feed?
The turbocharger has moving, metal parts which operate at high speeds, temperatures and pressures to provide sufficient boost to the engine. If not lubricated properly, the turbo shaft, bearings and wheels will wear down and fail.
What is the Turbocharger Bolted to?
Turbochargers are bolted to the exhaust manifold.
What is the importance of an Intercooler on a Turbocharged Vehicle?
The turbocharger operates at high temperatures, therefore the air that passes through it will also be hot. The air will also have reduced density. Intercoolers help to cool the air flowing from the turbocharger into the intake manifold, which increases the oxygen capacity and density of the air, providing more power. If the air remains hot, then it will get hotter during the compression stroke and may cause detonation.
What is Turbo Lag?
Turbo lag is the delay before the turbocharger develops sufficient boost; the turbine and compressor wheels take time accelerate due to inertia and some rotational resistance.
What is the importance of a Blow - Off Valve?
The Blow - Off or Dump Valve vents the extra air pressure into the atmosphere when the throttle body is closed. If this does not happen, the pressure will go back to the compressor wheel in the turbocharger.
What is the purpose of the Wastegate?
A waste gate limits the boost pressure produced from the turbocharger by limiting the amount of exhaust gases that go to the turbine wheel.
List three improvements to be made to an engine to safely operate with a Turbocharger.
- Lower Compression Ratio
- High Volume Oil Pump
- Knock Sensor
Differentiate between a Turbocharger and a Supercharger?
The Turbocharger is driven by exhaust gases, while the Supercharger is driven by the crankshaft via a belt, gear, or chain. The Turbocharger puts no extra load on the engine, while the Supercharger puts load on the crankshaft. The maximum amount of boost that can be provided by a Supercharger is also less than that of a Supercharger.
What are some things to check for when checking or servicing a Turbocharger?
- Inadequate boost pressure.
- Leaking shaft seals.
- Damaged wheels.
