Climate change and its consequences are a topic of hot discussion. As a result, auto manufacturers are under tremendous pressure to make necessary changes to their parts, especially the engine and the turbo.
The Australian government has set a target of reducing vehicular emissions to at least 26-28% below 2005 levels by 2030. Ideally, a vehicle should lower fuel consumption and provide high power density.
So, the turbochargers of the past are constantly undergoing innovations to usher in a new era of fuel efficiency and enhanced engine performance. Are you excited to know more about it?
Here’s a list of what turbocharger trends are currently dominating the industry. Well, keep an eye out for these!
1. New Materials Emerging
The heating up of the turbocharger continues to remain an issue as one side of it faces the exhaust stream. Not only that, but this also causes the vehicle to consume more fuel to keep the turbo functioning at its optimum.
To cope with these issues, a new set of alloys are introduced – nickel and stainless steel. Stainless steel, by replacing iron, is expected to resolve the heating issues without compromising the vehicle’s fuel efficiency.
2. Smart Sensors
Early detection of engine-killing detonation can help prevent the problem. This is especially vital because engine detonation or pre-ignition can cause severe internal damage to the vehicle – damaged head gaskets, cracked piston rings, melted pistons, and more.
Smart sensor technology is coming to the rescue. How? Firstly, smart sensors help in the detection of engine detonation. Secondly, they can also improve ignition timing. As a result, modern turbochargers are well-equipped to regulate different parameters such as cam timing, turbo boost, and more, thereby reducing incidences of engine failure.
3. Analytical Tools are Redefining Turbochargers
Through tech advancements and powerful analytical tools, the traditional design of a turbocharger is being challenged. For example, a slight change in the blades’ shape can significantly enhance the vehicle’s fuel efficiency.
Similarly, tech-derived models of the turbocharger can also bring down the vehicle’s overall weight.
Where is the Future Going?
Though turbochargers have been around for quite some time, these important vehicle components are undergoing massive change. The future might see them in a more advanced light thanks to novel technologies.
A glimpse of this change can already be seen in the form of Variable Turbine Geometry (VTG) in compact diesel cars. This is being done to reduce friction while improving response.
However, this is not the only big thing on the horizon – electric turbochargers are also expected to enter the market soon. These are expected to enable vehicles with smaller engines to move comfortably without compromising fuel efficiency.
It is undoubtedly true that electric turbochargers will face a number of challenges, but they will help achieve the carbon footprint reduction that nations are striving towards.
Wrapping Up
That was about the future, for now. But what about right now? Currently, is your vehicle experiencing frequent power loss, a whining engine, or exhaust fumes? If that is the case, then there are high chances that its turbo might be failing and needs a replacement.
Many turbocharger manufacturers and suppliers are located across Australia, but not all are the same. Make sure you connect with a company that is reputed and specialises in supplying only the highest quality products.
