Supercharger VS Turbocharger [Detailed Explanation with PDF]
What is Turbo Charger?
It is a device driven by a turbine and it is used to increase the performance and efficiency of an Internal Combustion Engine, by putting more compressed air to the engine cylinder.
Components of Turbocharger:
The components of Turbocharger is as follows:
- Compressor
- Turbine
- Engine cylinder (Inlet and Exhaust Valve)
Working Principle of Turbocharger:
It is a centrifugal compressor which is powered by a turbine that is driven by means of engine's exhaust gases.
Engine's volumetric efficiency can be improved by increasing the intake density.
The turbine converts the engine exhaust pressure energy and kinetic energy into rotational power, which is in turn used to drive the compressor.
Supercharger VS Turbocharger:
The difference between Supercharger and Turbocharger is shown in the Tabular column below.
| Supercharger | Turbocharger |
|---|---|
| They are basically compressors. | Turbos consist of both- turbine & air compressor mounted on the same shaft. |
| They draw power from the engine via a belt. | Turbocharger extracts the power from exhaust gases. |
| Cost of Supercharger is less than the Turbocharger | Cost of Turbocharger is more than the Supercharger |
| The supercharger is connected to the intake manifold of the vehicle. | Since it is a combination of both turbine & compressor, the turbine is connected to exhaust pipe while compressor to intake. |
| Less Efficient | More Efficient |
| Maintenance is Easy. | Difficult to maintain |
| Suitable for engines with smaller displacements. | Suitable for engines with higher displacements. |
| As soon as the engine starts, Superchargers start working. | Turbos won't start operating until a sufficient amount of exhaust gases are produced. |
This is a detailed explanation of the Supercharger and Turbocharger, and also I mentioned the difference between Supercharger and Turbo Charger. If you have any doubts, feel free to ask in the comments section.
