Extending the Lifespan of a Diesel Turbine Supercharger
Introduction
A turbine-based supercharger (also known as a turbocharger) is an engine component found in diesel engines, designed to increase the amount of air drawn into the combustion chamber. Normally, atmospheric pressure is the only source of power for the propulsion of the internal combustion engine. A turbine-based supercharger uses exhaust energy to actively force additional air into the air-intake, which increases the engines power output.
A common problem when using a turbine-based supercharger is that it wears down over time, resulting in less efficient power output and increased fuel consumption. Fortunately, there are ways to extend the lifespan of a diesel turbine supercharger, by taking precautions during use and regular maintenance.
Operation
The turbine-based supercharger is made up of three main components: a turbine wheel, a compressor wheel and a cartridge housing. The turbine wheel is housed in the exhaust manifold and is driven by the expanding gases from the burning fuel. The compressor wheel is located in the intake manifold and compresses the air drawn in from the air intake. The cartridge housing is the connecting component between the two, and is largely responsible for the smooth transfer of energy between the two components.
When the engine is in operation, exhaust gas rushes past the turbine wheel, creating a centrifugal force which spins it up to 30,000 RPM. The energy from the turbine wheel is then transferred to the compressor wheel, which pulls in air from the air intake and compresses it, adding density to the air-fuel mixture entering the combustion chamber. This in turn increases the power output of the engine, as more usable energy is derived from each combustion cycle.
Improving Efficiency
Although a turbine-based supercharger substantially increases the efficiency of a diesel engine, their longevity is much lower than other engine parts. Proper care and maintenance is essential for increasing their lifespan and avoiding costly repairs or replacements.
The first step in maximizing the lifespan of a turbine-based supercharger is to keep up with the factory-recommended maintenance schedule. This includes regular inspections of the unit, to ensure that all components are in good condition and that there is no build up of debris or contaminants. If an issue is found, it should be addressed immediately and not left to worsen.
Additionally, it is important to check and replace the oil used in the supercharger regularly, which cools the wheel bearings, allowing them to spin efficiently. Using a high-quality, synthetic oil is essential for preserving the lifespan of the supercharger, as it lubricates the wheel bearings and reduces friction.
Conclusion
Turbine-based superchargers are an invaluable component of many modern diesel engines, allowing them to produce significantly more power than they would otherwise. Although they provide an undeniable benefit, they can wear down relatively quickly if not properly taken care of. The best way to extend the lifespan of a diesel turbine supercharger is to keep up with the recommended maintenance schedule and use a high-quality synthetic oil for lubrication. Doing so will ensure that the supercharger is running at peak efficiency for longer, providing more power at a fraction of the cost.
