If you have ever wondered exactly how a car’s turbo works, what it does, and all that jazz, then read on……..
A Turbocharger is a forced induction system. Basically, as the name suggests, it is a power enhancement. Turbos are used to give a greater torque on a smaller engine. They can improve the fuel efficiency and reduce the exhaust emissions as well as performance.
Turbochargers compress the air flowing into an engine. The air enters the engine and then passes through an exhaust driven compressor or turbine which in turn spins an air pump. The turbine in the turbocharger can spin of speeds of up to 150,000 rotations per minute (rpm), which is actually approximately 30 times faster than any normal car engine. Due to the fact that it is linked to the exhaust, the temperatures in the turbine are very high.
Compressing the air means that there is a larger amount of air being forced into the engine, therefore creating more power. Larger exhaust gases drive the turbine wheel faster, thus providing more air and producing more power. Once a limit is met, which is pre-determined, the boost pressure is achieved. When this point occurs, the exhaust gas is redirected away from the turbine wheel, thus slowing it down and limiting the maximum boost pressure. This redirection valve is known as the waste gate. This device therefore prevents any over boost from damaging the engine.
The bonus of adding all this compressed air, is that it lets the engine squeeze more air into a cylinder, meaning more fuel can be added. It is then possible to receive more power from each of the explosions in each cylinder. This is then where the power-to-weight ratio for the engine can be improved.
To help reduce the extremely high temperatures in the turbine, many manufacturers are now adding an intercooler. This is a radiator for air, and is usually situated in front of the main radiator. Some turbos also use water-cooling. This is made possible by connecting the turbo to the coolant system, ensuring that the turbo operating temperature is limited by the temperature of the cooling system, which in turn protects the system from any excessive exhaust temperature.
Understanding how a turbo works makes it even more important for car owners to check their existing car warranty documents carefully in order to ensure maximum cover is provided in the event of turbo failure causing damage to your vehicle’s other components.
It is imperative that the oil supply entering the turbo is full and clean to ensure proper lubrication. If the oil supply becomes too low or contaminated, the turbo unit may become damaged. The most common cause of failure is the lack of lubrication, and as such will fall under neglect, potentially rendering a claim under your mechanical breakdown insurance policy invalid. Large particles can also enter the air stream from the intake, to help avoid this, regularly check the air filter and ducting to ensure that it is clean. It is also possible that engine parts can enter the exhaust system, so regular servicing is essential.
Many car owners may not be aware that when your manufacturer’s policy expires, it is possible to purchase an extended car warranty from a specialist insurer. A good policy will offer add-ons, such as cover for turbo failure. Investing in a comprehensive policy is a wise move, as it will give you peace of mind that you are covered against expensive repairs in the event of your power enchancer failing to give you that extra boost!
