We are seeing a number of cars with turbocharged engines being launched in the country. Turbochargers not only help make more power but also help the engineers meet the emission norms.
The market is now seeing a sudden launch of cars being powered by turbocharged petrol and diesel engines. To name a few, cars like the Tata Nexon, Polo TSI, new Hyundai i20, and many more are offered with powerful and fuel-efficient turbocharged engines. These new engines are not only powerful but also run cleaner. Many of you would definitely have one common question – What is a turbocharger?
In simple words, a turbocharger is a turbine-driven forced induction device that increases an internal combustion engine’s efficiency and power output by forcing extra air into the combustion chamber. The main objective of a turbocharger is to improve an engine’s efficiency by increasing the density of the intake gas (usually air), thereby allowing more power per engine cycle. In addition to this, turbochargers help the manufacturers build lighter and more powerful engines which result in better performance.
How does a turbocharger work?
A turbocharger consists of two halves joined together by a shaft. On one side, hot exhaust gasses from the engine make the turbine spin. This turbine is connected to the other turbine, which sucks in air, compresses it and sends it into the engine. This additional boost helps the engine extract extra power and efficiency, all thanks to the availability of denser air that aids in better combustion.
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Advantages of a Turbocharger
- Turbocharger helps to extract more power from the same engine block as it sends in more air which aids in better combustion.
- Since a small engine can produce better power output, the brands are able to develop light engines which are as good as the big and bulky naturally aspirated engines.
- A turbocharged engine pollutes much less because of its smaller size and better combustion process
- Unlike superchargers, turbochargers are cheap and do not require additional power to run
- Turbochargers are reliable and easy to service
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Disadvantages of a Turbocharger
- Since turbochargers utilise hot exhaust gases from the engine, they can get extremely hot and require an additional cooling system to dissipate the heat
- Most of the turbocharged engines suffer from Turbo Lag which takes a toll on the overall performance and driving experience
- The fuel economy takes a huge hit when the engine is pushed hard
- Small engines with big turbochargers are not as reliable in the long run
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With this being said, what do you think about the working of the turbochargers? Do let us know in the comments box below. Also, join our exclusive AutoHunters Auto Enthusiasts Whatsapp Group to be a part of interesting automotive discussions. Also, follow us on YouTube for all the latest updates and unbiased reviews.
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