Turbochargers Vs Superchargers - A Guide

If you're interested in adding power and performance to your
ride, no doubt you've considered adding a turbocharger (just turbo to tuners), or a supercharger to your ride. However, it can be difficult to determine which is the best for your needs. For instance, what is the peak operating range of a turbocharger, versus a supercharger? How much horsepower can you gain from each and which is more cost effective? Here are a few answers to your myriad of questions.

First, you need to understand how each system operates,
before you can make an informed choice. Both turbos and
superchargers are a form of forced air induction. In other
words, they provide boost by forcing more air into each
cylinder. More air means more fuel can be dumped in,
resulting in larger explosions, more rapid explosions and
greater speed. Basically, they provide more air, which
results in longer, cleaner burns. You waste less fuel, and
go farther, faster. However, that's where the similarities
end.

Turbos:

Turbochargers operate on spent exhaust gases. These gases
enter one half of the turbine, propelling the turbine and
forcing compressed air into the engine. The drawback to this
method is that the air is very hot (use an intercooler to
combat the heat) and the turbo operates at a fairly high RPM
rate (75K to 150K RPMs).

Superchargers:

Superchargers are a little different from turbos. Unlike
turbos, they do not operate on exhaust gas. Instead, they
use a pulley and the belts on your engine to drive the
impeller, rotating screws or rotors. This forces air into
the engine, providing more boost for your ride.
Superchargers operate at a lower RPM rate than do turbos
(anywhere between 15K to 40K, depending on the type of
supercharger).

That's all well and good, but which is better, you ask? That
depends on what you want. Both systems cost approximately
the same (there will be a few dollars difference, but not
much). However, superchargers experience much less lag than
do turbochargers. This results in more immediate power.
However, turbochargers can provide more boost at higher
rates of speed, meaning that you get more out of them at
higher RPM ranges.

Turbochargers also create more boost surge, which can damage
engines, as well as creating additional backpressure that
must be forced out through the headers. Superchargers
produce more noise than turbos, but are generally
longer-lived, providing you with a longer lasting
performance enhancement.

In short, it comes down to personal preference. Both devices
provide an amazing boost to your engine performance,
knocking your speed capabilities up dramatically. Both
systems have pros and cons associated with them, as well.
You choice will also depend on your usage. For instance, a
supercharger is ideal for a street machine, but if you are
going to the track, a turbocharger offers better benefits.
Before choosing either system, you will need to define your
needs, as well as any future use of your ride, in order to
make the best choice.

Duane Boodasingh http://www.trinituner.com

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