What is the principle of a supercharger?
4 Answers
Mechanical supercharger works by: the engine crankshaft drives the supercharger body through a chain or belt to force air in, the compressed air is cooled and then enters the engine's combustion chamber to mix with fuel, and is compressed for ignition to perform work. A mechanical supercharger, also known as a supercharger, is a forced induction device for internal combustion engines. The mechanical supercharger utilizes the torque generated by the engine crankshaft, with a design purpose largely similar to that of a turbocharger, both aiming to draw more air into the engine through an air compressor, supplemented by an increased fuel supply, to enhance the engine's output power.
I understand the working principle of a supercharger is like adding a powerful fan to the engine. It's directly connected to the engine's crankshaft and driven by a belt or gear system. When the engine runs, the crankshaft rotation spins the supercharger's impeller rapidly, drawing in and compressing more air to increase air density. This way, with more oxygen in the cylinders, more fuel can be injected for combustion, generating stronger explosive force and boosting power output. Unlike turbochargers that rely on exhaust gases, superchargers respond quickly and deliver power right from startup, making them ideal for sports cars or large vehicles needing instant acceleration. The downside is they consume some engine power, resulting in higher fuel consumption. I've driven a car equipped with a supercharger and felt the aggressive take-off, linear acceleration without lag. Maintenance-wise, just check for belt looseness and clean carbon deposits regularly. During daily driving, if you hear a buzzing sound, it's time for servicing.
A supercharger essentially pressurizes air using the engine's own power. I've seen it work like a powerful air pump—when the engine crankshaft rotates, it drives the internal blades of the supercharger to spin, sucking in air, compressing it, and then delivering it to the intake manifold. This process doesn't rely on exhaust gases; it's directly mechanically driven, so there's no turbo lag, making it especially suitable for drivers who love the thrill of acceleration. However, it does consume some of the engine's output, leading to slightly higher fuel consumption. I've experienced a modified car equipped with this type of supercharger—the power kicks in instantly upon startup, making hill climbs or overtaking much more exhilarating. In terms of principles, there are types like Roots or centrifugal. Roots superchargers offer quick response but lower efficiency, while centrifugal ones are quieter and more efficient. When choosing, it's important to match the vehicle's condition—for example, older cars installing a new supercharger may require ECU parameter adjustments. Over time, blade wear can affect performance, so I recommend regularly replacing air filters and lubricating components to keep the intake clean. Supercharged cars deliver strong power, but they tend to guzzle fuel in city driving. I usually reserve full-throttle runs for the highway.
I think the supercharger works by being directly connected to the engine crankshaft via a belt or chain. As soon as the crankshaft turns, the internal blades of the supercharger start rotating, compressing air and sending it into the cylinders. This increases the oxygen supply, making combustion more intense and boosting power. I often see this device when repairing cars; it has a simple structure and is not prone to failure, but aging belts or blockages can cause noise. The advantage is its quick response, without the lag associated with turbos, making it suitable for large-displacement vehicles. The downside is higher fuel consumption and the need for frequent maintenance checks. It's quite fun for daily driving, and the principle is easy to understand.
