What is the Difference Between Mechanical Supercharging and Turbocharging in Automobiles?

[StChristopher]

There are the following differences between mechanical supercharging and turbocharging in automobiles: 1. Different disadvantages. Mechanical supercharging: The most obvious issue with turbocharging technology is "response lag," which means the impeller's inertia causes a delayed reaction to sudden throttle changes. Even after improvements, the response time is still around 1.7 seconds, resulting in a delay in the engine's power output increase or decrease. Turbocharging: The acceleration effect is not very noticeable, and the difference from a naturally aspirated engine is minimal. It also consumes part of the engine's kinetic energy. Mechanical supercharging relies on a belt drive, and ultimately, the driving force still comes from the engine. 2. Different structures. Mechanical supercharging: The mechanical supercharger is connected to the engine crankshaft pulley via a belt, using the engine's speed to drive the internal blades of the supercharger, generating pressurized air that is sent into the engine's intake manifold. The overall structure is quite simple, with operating temperatures ranging between 70°C and 100°C. Turbocharging: The intake port of the turbocharger is connected to the exhaust manifold, and the exhaust port is connected to the exhaust pipe. 3. Different principles. Mechanical supercharging: It uses the engine's own power to drive a compressor for pressurization. The supercharger consumes engine power, and its speed changes with the engine speed, eliminating the issue of boost lag. It performs exceptionally well at low engine speeds but is limited by the engine's speed, resulting in insufficient boost at high engine speeds. Turbocharging: It utilizes the exhaust gases produced by the engine to drive a turbine in the exhaust pipe, which in turn drives a turbine in the intake pipe for indirect pressurization, without consuming the engine's power.