Turbocharger Basics
Used in both gas and diesel-powered vehicles, a turbocharger is a component that is attached to the engine or exhaust manifold to improve fuel economy and power and lower emissions. Also known as a turbo, it increases the amount of air that enters the engine to improve the combustion process which in turn produces more power. Turbos can be found on many vehicles including passenger cars and trucks, and heavy-duty and performance vehicles.
How Does a Turbocharger Work?
A turbo features two main sections – a turbine and a compressor. The turbine pulls in exhaust gases and spins at speeds up to 200,000 RPM. While the turbine spins the compressor wheel, the compressor pulls in air and compresses it into the engine in a process called forced induction. As more air goes into the combustion chamber, fuel is burned to create more power.
What Are the Parts of a Turbo?
Compressor Section:
Compressor Air Inlet
Outside air is pulled into the turbo through this inlet before being compressed.
Compressor Wheel
Attached to the turbine wheel, the compressor wheel is forced to turn by the turbine wheel where it draws in 30% to 50% more air into the engine.
Compressor Housing
Funnels the clean air into the intake manifold.
Compressor Air Discharge
Attaches to the intake; the compressed air mixes with the fuel before it is burned.
Turbine Section:
Turbine Exhaust Gas Inlet
Connects to the exhaust manifold; exhaust gases go into the turbocharger through this connection.
Turbine Housing
Attaches to the turbine exhaust gas inlet. The gases flow through the housing as they come out of the exhaust manifold.
Turbine Wheel
Exhaust gases are pushed through the turbo by this blade that spins at a high rate of speed up to 200,000 RPM.
Turbine Exhaust Gas Outlet
Sends the gases from the turbo to the exhaust pipe.
Advantages of a Turbocharger
From increases in horsepower and torque to improved gas mileage and emissions, turbochargers have several advantages that make them popular across a wide variety of vehicles.
More Power in a Smaller Package
With the increase in power that a turbocharger creates, the size of the engine can be reduced which results in a smaller engine footprint that weighs less and takes less fuel to operate. This means that a turbocharged six-cylinder engine can produce the same power of a naturally aspirated V8 engine. The combination of fuel economy and increased power makes a turbocharged engine a popular option.
Responsive
A more responsive engine is another benefit of a turbocharged engine. With the added power, the engine responds quickly when the driver punches the accelerator. This helps the driver when passing a vehicle, merging into traffic or other scenarios where more power is needed.
Improved Emissions
Through improved overall engine efficiency, a turbocharger has a positive effect in reducing emissions. As the turbo burns fuel with more oxygen, it burns cleaner and produces fewer emissions.
Fuel Economy
Requiring less fuel when the driver hits the accelerator, a turbocharger can increase fuel economy anywhere from 10% to 25%. Turbos have become a popular option for manufacturers as they work to comply with tougher federal fuel efficiency regulations.
FP Diesel Turbochargers
Need to replace your turbocharger? FP Diesel has turbochargers for many commercial vehicle applications. Built with brand new components, turbos from FP Diesel meet OE specifications for fit, form and function. With a direct-fit design for easy installation, FP Diesel turbochargers optimize airflow to help restore combustion and engine performance.
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