Installing a turbocharger in your vehicle is a testament to the fact that you are a speed enthusiast. But before installing a new turbocharger system in your vehicle, there are certain things you need to understand about them. Advanced Radiators, the biggest engine cooling and climate control company in North East England, has got you completely covered as they discuss some important information regarding turbochargers.
Why Install a Turbocharger?
A turbocharger improves the airflow into the cylinder and since more air is mixed with the fuel, the engine’s performance enhances a great deal. This is not the only advantage you would get out of a turbo. A turbocharged engine delivers the same power as a naturally aspirated mill consuming lesser gas.
Moreover, a turbocharger enables your engine to supply more torque, meaning quicker and stronger performance. Make sure you get the right type of turbocharger.
General Terms Associated with Turbochargers
Before heading out to buy yourself a turbocharger, make sure you understand the following important terms related to the technology:
A/R ratio: The area/radius ratio is used to define the characteristics of the compressor or the turbine housings.
BOV: The Blow Off Valve (BOV) is a valve located on the side of the turbocharger system that works as a pressure release system.
Boost: Boost is measured in psi unit or bars (b) and is the pressure measured above atmospheric pressure. It determines the engine’s displacement, engine rpm and throttle opening.
Compressor: A compressor is where the intake air passes through and reaches the car’s engine.
Compressor Surge: A compressor surge occurs when air pressure delivered by the compressor exceeds the limit of air pressure the compressor can maintain.
Intercooler: An intercooler is located between the turbocharger and the car’s engine. It draws heat from the air, which blows out during a boost.
Lag: Lag is defined as the delay between the change in throttle position and the building up of a boost.
Turbine: A turbine is the exhaust port of the turbocharger.
What is an Intercooler and How Does it Work?
Intercoolers are extremely important as they help engine in delivering an even higher output. An intercooler cools down the charged air after it has been heated due to boosting. When the air is cooled, it becomes denser and can be combusted in a better way, thereby improving the engine’s power.
However, if you opt for a low quality or poorly designed intercooler, your vehicle’s performance would deteriorate instead of getting a bump. Therefore, it is vital to opt for an efficient intercooler.
An inefficient or poorly designed intercooler suffers from a phenomenon known as pressure drop. A pressure drop occurs when the pressurized air while passing through the intercooler loses some of its pressure due to aerodynamic loss. If the air loses too much pressure, then the process of cooling down the air becomes pointless.
On the other hand, a good intercooler effectively cools down the air while ensuring minimum loss of air pressure. Learn more about intercoolers with this guide.
You now know the basic fundamentals of a turbocharger and won’t have any problem buying yourself an ideal turbocharger to make your car more powerful and fuel efficient.