When buying a car, many consumers are often faced with an important choice: whether to buy a car with a turbocharger or a car with a naturally aspirated engine, which is a difficult question because many people don't know the differences and pros and cons behind these two different technologies. However, it is especially important for car buyers to make the right choice, because once the purchase is complete, it is too late to regret it.
As a common automotive power lifting technology, turbocharger increases the output of the engine by using the energy of exhaust gases to increase the amount of air intake in the cylinder. In contrast, a naturally aspirated engine relies on the opening and closing of the valves to achieve air into the cylinder through negative pressure in the cylinder. In terms of power delivery, turbocharged engines are generally able to provide more acceleration and torque, while naturally aspirated engines are more focused on smooth and linear power delivery.
However, determining which technology is best for an individual's needs requires a range of factors to consider, including the individual's driving style, usage needs, and financial strength. Only by understanding the characteristics and application scenarios of different technologies can car buyers make an informed choice and avoid regrets and regrets after purchase. Therefore, before buying a car, it is important to have an understanding of turbocharged and naturally aspirated engines, and make a purchase decision based on your actual situation.
Definition and working principle of a turbocharged engine
A turbocharged engine is an internal combustion engine that uses a turbocharger to increase the intake air pressure, thereby increasing the supply of oxygen, improving combustion efficiency and increasing power output.
Here's how a turbocharged engine works:
1. Exhaust gas drive: Exhaust gases are generated from the combustion process of the engine and flow through the turbocharger in the exhaust system. The energy from the exhaust gases is used to drive the turbine in the turbocharger, causing it to rotate at high speed.
2. Turbo drive: There are two parts inside the turbocharger, one is the turbine and the other is the compressor (the compressor and the turbine are connected by the same shaft). The energy of the exhaust gases pushes the turbine, which spins at high speed.
3. Compressor compression: The turbine rotation will drive the compressor (a compressor is a centrifugal compressor on a shaft) to push the intake air towards the cylinder by rotation.
4. Pressurization: The compressor compresses the inlet air to increase the inlet air pressure and oxygen content. This allows the combustible mixture in the cylinder to be burned more fully, improving combustion efficiency and power output.
5. Combustion and exhaust: The compressed mixture is conveyed to the cylinder through the fuel injection system and burned together with the spark plug in the ignition system. Combustion pushes the pistons, generating power. At the same time, the exhaust gases are discharged into the exhaust system due to the increase in pressure.
With turbocharging technology, the engine can harness the energy of the exhaust gases to increase the intake pressure, allowing more fuel to burn and providing a higher oxygen supply. This design can significantly increase the engine output and improve the power performance. Turbocharged engines are often used in high-performance vehicles and racing cars in pursuit of higher power output.
Advantages of turbocharged engines
Enhanced Power Performance:
First of all, the turbocharged engine is able to provide higher engine power and torque output. By harnessing the energy of the exhaust gases, the turbocharger pushes more air into the engine, resulting in fuller combustion and more efficient combustion. As a result, the engine's output and torque have been significantly increased. This means that when accelerating, the turbocharged engine is able to quickly deliver more power, giving the driver a stronger push back feeling.
Secondly, the turbocharged engine is also able to improve the vehicle's acceleration and overtaking ability. Thanks to the addition of turbocharging technology, the engine is able to produce more torque faster, making the vehicle perform better at starting and accelerating. Especially in the low-rev range, the turbocharged engine delivers more torque, providing excellent climbing and overtaking capabilities.
Improved fuel economy:
The turbocharged engine improves fuel economy. By pushing more air into the engine, the turbocharged engine achieves fuller combustion and improves fuel utilization. Compared to naturally aspirated engines of the same power, turbocharged engines are able to produce the same or higher power output with higher efficiency, thus reducing fuel consumption.
Turbocharged engines are also capable of improving thermal efficiency. When the turbocharger works, it uses the energy in the exhaust gases and converts it into power to propel the turbocharger, which improves the thermal efficiency of the system. This means that the turbocharged engine is able to produce the same amount of power with less energy loss, improving the energy efficiency of the entire engine system.
Turbocharged engines are also capable of reducing emissions. By improving combustion efficiency and thermal efficiency, turbocharged engines are able to reduce unburned fuel and exhaust emissions. This is especially important for vehicles that meet or exceed emissions regulations, where turbocharged engines can help reduce tailpipe emissions and reduce environmental pollution.
Adaptation to high altitude and high temperature advantages:
Turbocharged engines have an advantage in handling the challenges of altitude and temperature changes. Naturally aspirated engines face degraded performance at high altitudes and low temperatures due to the decrease in air density due to the increase in altitude and the decrease in air temperature. Turbochargers, on the other hand, can compensate for the loss of performance caused by reduced density by increasing the intake pressure and providing more oxygen to the engine. This allows the turbocharged engine to deliver good power delivery and performance at high altitudes or in cooler temperatures.
In addition, the turbocharged engine performs well at start-up. Because turbochargers are able to rapidly increase intake pressure and provide more compressed air, turbocharged engines tend to reach working order more quickly when they start. Compared to naturally aspirated engines, turbocharged engines provide the required power more quickly at start-up and respond more quickly to driver movements.
Disadvantages of turbocharged engines
Delayed response time:
The turbocharged engine's delayed response time is one of its main drawbacks. This is due to the fact that the turbocharger requires exhaust gases to drive and takes a certain amount of time before reaching the rotational speed. As a result, the turbocharged engine may experience a delayed acceleration response at low revs. This delay is often referred to as "turbo hysteresis". In contrast, naturally aspirated engines typically have a more immediate and immediate response due to the absence of a turbocharger.
However, modern turbocharged engine manufacturers have taken some steps to mitigate turbo lag. For example, advanced turbine design, variable turbine geometry (VGT) technology, and the use of small turbine combinations and light materials can reduce turbo hysteresis. In addition, some manufacturers use electric supercharger (e-turbo) technology, which drives the turbocharger through an electric motor, resulting in faster response times.
Still, turbocharged engines can still have some delay at low rpm, which requires the user to adapt and pay attention while driving.
Loss of energy efficiency:
Turbocharged engines may experience a loss of energy efficiency in some cases. This is mainly because the turbocharger is driven by exhaust gases, which convert the energy of exhaust gases into compressed air for engine combustion, thereby increasing engine output. However, under high loads, the pressure ratio of the turbocharger increases due to the need to supply more compressed air, which increases the exhaust drag and increases the overall energy consumption of the engine system.
However, the development of modern turbocharging technology has reduced energy efficiency losses to some extent. Energy efficiency losses are reduced through the use of advanced turbine design, lightweight materials and a digital control system.
While turbocharged engines may experience a loss of energy efficiency in some cases, overall, turbocharged engines offer clear advantages in terms of improved engine power and fuel economy. These engines are generally capable of delivering higher power output and perform well at high speeds and on hill climbs.
Thermal Management Challenges:
Since turbocharged engines need exhaust gases to drive the turbocharger, exhaust gases can take away a considerable amount of heat. As a result, the distribution and control of heat in turbocharged engines becomes more complex and requires special design and management.
Turbochargers and exhaust gas turbines in turbocharged engines are often subject to high temperatures and pressures, requiring materials and cooling systems that can withstand high temperatures to maintain their proper operation and longevity. At the same time, the supercharging process can also lead to an increase in the intake air temperature, which can cause knocking and overheating of the engine. As a result, turbocharged engines need to take measures to control and reduce the intake air temperature, such as using an intake air cooler or a cooling system through a supercharger.
In addition, heat dissipation of the turbocharger is also an important issue. During high-load operation, turbochargers generate a lot of heat, which can affect engine performance and life if heat dissipation is poor. Therefore, designing an efficient turbocharged engine requires consideration of the design and optimization of the cooling system.
Although thermal management is a disadvantage of turbocharged engines, these challenges can be addressed with proper design and optimization, ensuring stable operation and longevity of the engine. In recent years, the development of thermal management technology has also opened up new possibilities for improving the performance and efficiency of turbocharged engines.
High maintenance costs:
Turbocharged models are typically more expensive to maintain than non-turbocharged models. This is mainly due to the complexity of the turbocharging system, where components such as the turbocharger are susceptible to damage or wear and tear and require more frequent maintenance and replacement.
First of all, the turbocharger needs to be cleaned and calibrated on a regular basis to ensure that it is functioning properly. Especially in high-temperature and high-pressure operating environments, turbochargers are prone to the accumulation of carbon scale and particulate matter, resulting in degraded performance and affecting engine output. This necessitates regular dismantling and cleaning of the turbocharger, increasing maintenance costs and time.
Second, due to the higher pressures and temperatures involved in turbocharged engines, some critical components, such as cylinder heads, pistons and piston rings, also require higher quality and durability. As a result, these parts will be more expensive to repair and replace.
Finally, since the turbocharging system generates higher temperatures when operating, this can put additional stress on the cooling and exhaust systems. This requires more powerful cooling systems and more heat-resistant exhaust components, which can increase the cost of repairing and replacing them, especially in turbocharger models, where water and oil leaks due to accelerated aging due to high temperatures. (Regular inspections are required, and problems are found to be solved in a timely manner)
However, despite higher maintenance costs, turbocharged models are often able to offer improved performance and fuel economy. Therefore, when it comes to weighing maintenance costs and vehicle performance, consumers need to consider their needs and budget in a comprehensive manner. In addition, proper maintenance and maintenance of turbocharged vehicles can also reduce maintenance costs.
Definition and working principle of a naturally aspirated engine:
A naturally aspirated engine is an internal combustion engine that uses natural atmospheric pressure to draw in air to achieve combustion in the cylinder. It does not rely on any external equipment such as a turbocharger to increase the intake pressure, but relies on the negative pressure generated by the movement of the cylinder to draw in air.
Here's how a naturally aspirated engine works:
1. Suction stage: During the piston descending process, the valve opens, and the exhaust gas in the cylinder is discharged, generating negative pressure. At the same time, during the upward movement of the piston, the valve closes and the intake valve gradually opens. Due to the negative pressure inside the cylinder, the pressure exerted by the atmospheric pressure on the intake valve pushes the air through the intake tract into the cylinder.
2. Compression Phase: The piston begins to travel upwards and compresses the incoming air, increasing its pressure and temperature.
3. Combustion stage: When the piston reaches its apex, the ignition system triggers the spark plug ignition, igniting the compressed air and fuel mixture, producing burst combustion and pushing the piston downward.
4. Exhaust stage: During the piston descending, the exhaust gas is discharged and ready for the next suction cycle.
Compared with turbocharged engines, naturally aspirated engines have lower intake pressures, larger cylinder volumes, more adequate fuel mixture supply, and relatively higher combustion efficiency, but the corresponding power output is relatively low. As a result, naturally aspirated engines are often used in some economy and everyday cars, and turbocharged engines are preferred for vehicles that require higher power output.
Advantages of a naturally aspirated engine
Smoother power delivery:
Lower maximum torque point: Naturally aspirated engines typically reach their maximum torque output point at lower revs. This means that the driver can easily get enough power at low revs without having to press the accelerator too much or wait for the turbocharger to react.
More linear power delivery curves: Naturally aspirated engines typically have a more linear power delivery curve and are relatively smoother. This allows the driver to achieve a relatively consistent power response at different speeds, resulting in a smoother overall driving experience.
Delivers a more comfortable driving experience: Thanks to the relatively smooth and linear power delivery of the naturally aspirated engine, it is easier for the driver to achieve a smoother acceleration in everyday city driving, reducing sudden power shocks. This provides a more comfortable driving experience for long distances or situations where frequent speed changes are required.
It is important to note that while naturally aspirated engines have advantages in terms of smoothness and linearity of power delivery, they have lower power output and combustion efficiency than turbocharged engines.
More Reliable Engines:
Simplified structural design: Compared to turbocharged engines, naturally aspirated engines are more simple and straightforward in structure. By reducing the complexity of turbocharging machinery and the associated cooling system, a naturally aspirated engine can eliminate many additional components and piping. Such a simplified design not only makes it easier to manufacture, but also helps to reduce the weight and complexity of the overall engine.
Reduced breakdown and repair costs: Due to the relatively simple structure of the naturally aspirated engine, the probability of failure is low. In addition, turbocharged engines often require more maintenance and repairs, such as more frequent replacement of the turbocharger and associated cooling system. In contrast, naturally aspirated engines are less expensive to maintain and repair, and are easier to perform with routine maintenance.
It is important to note that while naturally aspirated engines have a simplified structure and lower maintenance costs, turbocharged engines generally have advantages in terms of power delivery and fuel efficiency.
Stability of mature technology:
Proven over many years: The naturally aspirated engine is a proven technology that has been proven over many years. It has been widely used in many vehicles and machinery equipment, and has been tested and improved over a long period of time. As a result, its reliability and performance have been widely recognized and verified.
Less technical risk and possibility of problems: Since the design of the naturally aspirated engine is relatively simple, without complex components such as turbochargers, the likelihood of technical risks and problems during use is low. In contrast, turbocharged engines require more control and regulation in their design and operation, and as a result, they may face more technical challenges and the risk of problems.
Disadvantages of naturally aspirated engines
Low torque output: Naturally aspirated engines typically deliver lower torque output at low revs than turbocharged engines. This results in a lack of power at the start and acceleration, requiring higher revs to generate enough power, which affects the vehicle's acceleration performance.
Power drop: Naturally aspirated engines have poor power performance at high altitudes or in warmer temperatures. Due to thin air or high temperatures, naturally aspirated engines are unable to obtain enough oxygen, resulting in a decrease in engine power and impaired acceleration performance.
Lower fuel efficiency: Due to the low torque output, the naturally aspirated engine requires a larger throttle input to increase the revs in situations where higher revs are required to provide enough power. This leads to an increase in fuel consumption, which is relatively less fuel efficient.
Poor responsiveness: Naturally aspirated engines require a certain amount of time and rev to get maximum power delivery after the driver presses the throttle. This results in a sense of lag when accelerating, making the driving slightly less responsive.
Limits the power increase potential: Due to the working principle of naturally aspirated engines, their power increase potential is relatively low. In contrast, a turbocharged engine can improve power delivery by increasing intake pressure, making it easier to upgrade and tune performance.
These disadvantages are not to say that naturally aspirated engines are useless, relatively speaking, they are generally more reliable and easier to maintain, while performing better at low revs and in everyday city driving situations. However, for those looking for more horsepower and more acceleration, a turbocharged engine may be a better fit for their needs.
Is it better to choose turbocharged or naturally aspirated when buying a car?
Whether to buy a car with a turbocharged engine or a naturally aspirated engine is a matter for individual needs and preferences. Here are the features of turbocharged and naturally aspirated engines:
Features of the turbocharged engine:
Higher power delivery: The turbocharged engine can provide higher torque and power delivery at lower rpm by increasing the intake pressure, resulting in stronger acceleration performance of the vehicle. Especially in the medium to high rev range, the turbocharged engine shows good power reserve and explosive power, which is suitable for drivers who like to drive fast and at high speeds.
Improved gradeability and high-altitude performance: The turbocharged engine performs better at high altitudes or in warmer temperatures. Since the booster system compensates for the thinning of oxygen, more oxygen is available, so that the power of the engine does not drop significantly.
Higher fuel efficiency: Turbocharged engines can improve fuel efficiency by compressing their own air, thereby improving fuel efficiency. Turbocharged engines can achieve better fuel economy with the same power output than naturally aspirated engines.
Features of the naturally aspirated engine:
High reliability and durability: Naturally aspirated engines are simpler than turbocharged engines and reduce the complexity of the supercharging system. This makes the naturally aspirated engine more reliable and less maintenance. Similarly, naturally aspirated engines avoid some of the problems that can lead to turbocharged engines, such as turbine leaks, turbo lag, etc., because they do not have a supercharging system.
Smooth power delivery: The naturally aspirated engine provides a relatively linear and smooth power delivery in the low rev range, making the driving feel more comfortable and smooth. For long hours of city driving, smooth road conditions, and the need for comfortable cruising, a naturally aspirated engine is more suitable.
Lower car purchase and maintenance costs: Naturally aspirated engines are less expensive to purchase than turbocharged engines, and maintenance and maintenance costs are relatively low. Because the naturally aspirated engine has a simple structure and does not require the maintenance of the booster system, it is more convenient and economical to repair.
In summary, turbocharged engines are suitable for drivers who are looking for high performance, power and high speeds, but also for high altitudes or high temperatures. The naturally aspirated engine, on the other hand, is suitable for drivers who are more concerned about reliability, ride and low cost, especially when everyday city driving and smooth cruising are the main concerns. Ultimately, an individual's budget, driving needs, use, and personal preferences will be key factors in deciding whether to buy a turbocharged engine or a naturally aspirated engine.