What does a turbocharger mean?
2 Answers
Turbocharging refers to the process where the exhaust gases from a car are not directly released into the atmosphere. Instead, they are used to drive the turbocharger, which pressurizes the intake air, thereby improving intake efficiency, increasing power output, and reducing fuel consumption. As the engine speed increases, the exhaust gas discharge speed and the turbocharger speed also increase simultaneously, enhancing the degree of air compression. This, in turn, increases the engine's air intake, thereby boosting the engine's output power. Precautions for using turbochargers: 1. Turbocharged engines require higher-performance engine oil that is resistant to high temperatures and has good oxidation resistance. Additionally, the oil change interval should be shortened accordingly to maintain the lubrication and cooling effects of the oil on the turbocharger. 2. Turbocharged vehicles are equipped with oil coolers and intake system cooling devices to lower the temperature of the turbocharger. The radiator and thermostat should also be appropriately enlarged to improve thermal efficiency, thereby fully enhancing the cooling conditions of the turbocharged engine.
Turbocharging is essentially installing an air compressor for the engine. It's like using a bicycle pump to inflate a tire—the turbo forces large amounts of compressed air into the cylinders, allowing gasoline to burn more completely. Even a small 1.5L engine can deliver power comparable to a 2.0L. I once disassembled the turbo from an old Passat: exhaust gases drive the turbine wheel at over 100,000 RPM, and the fresh air compressed into the cylinders can reach temperatures of 200°C, which is why an intercooler is needed to cool it down. Nowadays, even economy cars use this technology. However, it's important to note that turbocharged cars require full synthetic oil, and you shouldn't shut off the engine immediately after being stuck in traffic—let the turbo cool down first.
