How does the turbocharger works?

A turbocharger, often simply referred to as a turbo, is a device that increases the efficiency and power output of an internal combustion engine by compressing the incoming air. It is commonly used in both gasoline and diesel engines to improve their performance. Turbochargers work on the principle of forced induction, which means they force more air into the engine's combustion chamber than it would naturally draw in on its own. Here's how a turbocharger works:

1.     Exhaust gases are collected: The process begins with the engine's exhaust gases exiting the combustion chamber after the power stroke. These hot and high-pressure exhaust gases are directed into a component called the exhaust manifold.

2.     Exhaust gases spin a turbine: The exhaust gases flow through the exhaust manifold and into the turbine housing of the turbocharger. Inside the housing, there is a turbine wheel connected to a shaft. As the exhaust gases flow over the curved blades of the turbine wheel, they cause it to spin. This is often referred to as the "exhaust gas-driven turbine."

3.     Shaft and compressor wheel: The shaft that connects the turbine wheel extends into the center housing of the turbocharger. On the other end of the shaft is another wheel called the compressor wheel. The compressor wheel is located in the fresh air intake side of the engine.

4.     Compressor wheel compresses air: As the exhaust gas spins the turbine wheel, it also spins the shaft and the compressor wheel. The compressor wheel draws in ambient air and compresses it before delivering it to the engine's intake manifold. This compressed air is cooler and denser than the surrounding air, which results in a higher oxygen content.

5.     Increased air density: The compressed air is forced into the engine's intake manifold, where it mixes with fuel and enters the combustion chamber. The increased air density allows the engine to burn more fuel and produce more power, resulting in improved performance.

6.     Boost pressure: The pressure of the compressed air entering the engine is referred to as "boost pressure." Turbochargers can be designed to provide varying levels of boost, depending on the engine's requirements and the desired performance characteristics.

Turbocharging provides several benefits, including increased horsepower and torque, improved fuel efficiency (when used judiciously), and reduced emissions due to more complete combustion. However, it can also lead to increased engine stress and heat generation, which necessitates proper cooling and lubrication systems to ensure engine durability.

In summary, a turbocharger uses exhaust gases to drive a turbine wheel, which is connected to a compressor wheel that forces compressed air into the engine. This process increases the engine's efficiency and power output, making it a popular technology for enhancing automotive performance.