Principles of Operation

Turbocharger

Principles of Operation

The turbocharger is an exhaust-driven centrifugal air compressor. Its purpose is to increase power output by supplying compressed air to the engine. The internal components are oil, coolant and air cooled. Engine oil and coolant are circulated through the center housing which acts as a heat barrier between the "hot" turbine and the "cold" compressor. Bearings are sleeve type and lubricated by engine oil. Oil is circulated to the turbocharger center housing and returned to the sump through an oil drain in the center housing.

Expanding exhaust gases drive the turbine shaft assembly to speeds up to 200,000 rpm. Filtered air entering the compressor side of the turbocharger is compressed and delivered through a Charge Air Cooler (CAC). The very hot compressed air is cooled, then continues on to fill the intake manifold at a higher pressure than atmospheric pressure. Because considerably more air is forced into the intake manifold, the results are increased power, fuel efficiency and the ability to maintain power at higher altitudes.