What is a turbocharger and how to avoid its failure?

The main task of the turbocharger is to recharge the engine power. For this purpose, exhaust fumes are used for its propulsion. How is the turbocharger built, how it works and  what are its adventages? And above all – ha to avoid turbocharger failure? Find the answer below.

How is it built?

The turbocharger consists of a turbine, a compressor and two rotors. The first two elements are connected by one shaft. It is worth to mention that the turbine does not have a combustion chamber, because this is the role of the combustion engine. Thanks to the turbine, we can achieve higher engine performance on the same capacity.

How it works?

The operation of the turbine is not complicated. The exhaust fumes injected into it hits the vane (the so-called heat side of the turbine) and unscrew it. Then through the shaft placed in the middle the speed is transferred to the compression part (the so-called cold side). The impeller of the compressor is designed to create a subpressure, draw in the air, compress it and force it into the engine compartment. In this way, without the need to enlarge the engine’s capacity in liters, we easily increase its power. Because more air in the cylinder is the opportunity to deliver more fuel.

Turbocharger failure – how to avoid breakdowns?

Damage to turbochargers is rarely associated with their operation. Most often their failure occurs due to i inappropriate use.

If the turbocharger powers the engine of your machine, you have to remember to cool it down after hard work. If you quickly turn off the excavator, the turbocharger can be destroyed. It is because despite the engine turned off, the turbocharger rotor will still be spinning. Of course, the turbocharger will not be damaged at the first time. But if we often turn off the hot engine, sooner or later we will break it.

Of course, an important issue for the life of a turbocharger is proper lubrication and appropriate engine oil, or rather its regular replacement. Old and dirty oil causes grooves on bearings.

The turbocharger bearings are lubricated with oil supplied from the engine system. But the turbocharger working conditions are much more difficult. In connection with the above, any irregularities lead to its failure.

The lifespan of a turbocharger depends on our operation and care for the equipment and its proper use.