The supercharging system is responsible for increasing the amount of air entering the engine, which consequently increases the amount of fuel that can be burned, generating more power. There are two main types of supercharging systems: the turbocharger and the mechanical supercharger.
Turbocharger
The turbocharger is made up of two turbines, one of which is driven by the engine's exhaust gases and the other is responsible for compressing the air that enters the engine. When the exhaust gases pass through the first turbine, they cause it to rotate, this rotation is transmitted to the second turbine through a shaft, causing it to compress the air that enters the engine.
Compressed air is then sent to the intake manifold, where it is mixed with fuel and burned inside the engine. The turbocharger is controlled by a wastegate valve, which diverts part of the exhaust gases out of the system, preventing excessive compressed air pressure.
Mechanical compressor
The mechanical compressor is driven directly by the engine, through a belt. It works like a fan, compressing the air that enters the engine and sending it to the intake manifold. This type of system is simpler and more efficient at low revs, but can generate power losses at high revs.
Regardless of the type of supercharging system used, it is important that the engine is designed to withstand the additional pressure generated by compressed air. In addition, the fuel delivery system needs to be adjusted to deliver the correct amount of fuel for the amount of air entering the engine.
