Turbochargers

Turbocharger – How It Works

Jump to:
1. What the Turbocharger Does
2. How It Works – Step by Step
3. Key Components Involved
4. Common Misconceptions
5. Why This Matters

Anchor 1

A turbocharger increases the amount of air entering an engine so that more fuel can be burned efficiently. It does this by using energy from the engine’s exhaust gases—energy that would otherwise be wasted—to drive a compressor that forces more air into the combustion chambers.

The result is higher air density in the engine, improved combustion efficiency, and increased power from a smaller engine.

How it Works - Step by Step

Anchor 2

Exhaust gas energy
As the engine runs, exhaust gases leave the combustion chambers. In a turbocharged engine, this exhaust flow is directed towards the turbocharger.
Turbine operation
The exhaust gas spins a turbine wheel inside the turbocharger. This wheel can rotate at very high speeds.
Shared shaft connection
The turbine wheel is connected by a shaft to a compressor wheel on the intake side of the turbocharger. Both wheels rotate together.
Air compression
As the compressor wheel spins, it draws in ambient air and compresses it. Compressing the air increases its density and temperature.
Charge air cooling
The compressed air passes through a charge air cooler, where its temperature is reduced. Cooling the air increases its density further.
Improved combustion
The cooled, dense air enters the engine. With more oxygen available, the engine can burn more fuel efficiently during combustion.

Key Components Involved

Anchor 3

Turbine wheel
Driven by exhaust gases to extract energy from the exhaust flow.
Compressor wheel
Compresses incoming air before it enters the engine.
Shaft
Mechanically links the turbine and compressor wheels.
Charge air cooler
Reduces the temperature of compressed air to increase density.
Engine exhaust system
Supplies the energy used to drive the turbocharger

Common Misconceptions

Anchor 4

Turbochargers create energy
A turbocharger does not create energy; it reuses energy from exhaust gases that would otherwise be lost.
Turbocharging only increases power
Turbocharging also improves efficiency by allowing smaller engines to produce the same power as larger ones.
Compressed air alone improves performance
The cooling of compressed air is essential, as cooler air is denser and more effective for combustion.

Why This Matters

Anchor 5

Understanding how a turbocharger works explains how modern engines achieve higher power and efficiency without increasing engine size. Turbocharging allows manufacturers to reduce fuel consumption and emissions while maintaining performance.

This concept is central to modern engine design and combustion efficiency.

Quick Reference

System: Engines & combustion
Component: Turbocharger
Energy source: Exhaust gas
Primary function: Increase intake air density
Key benefit: Improved efficiency and power