Diesel engines are on the trajectory of becoming extinct in the near future. This is because diesel engines have a relatively high emission of harmful greenhouse gases. But this enables us to ask the question, why is diesel still in use in the first place? Well, diesel engines are more efficient than their petrol counterparts. Not only that, diesel engines offer more torque than their petrol counterpart. Well, keeping that in mind, before the diesels get completely extinct, let’s have a look at a fact. The fact that majority of the diesel engines in the market come with a turbocharger, but Why? Let’s dive right in.
The working of a diesel engine
Before answering the question, we need to understand a few basics and technical jargon about diesel and diesel engines. As you know, diesel engines do not come with spark plugs. Because the diesel doesn’t need a spark to ignite, instead, it uses a principle called compression ignition.
Diesel fuel has a low flash point. What is a flash point? Well, this is the lowest liquid temperature at which, under specific specified conditions, a liquid emits vapours in sufficient quantity to be capable of igniting a spark is known as a material’s flash point. This is lower than that of petrol. Also, the flash point of diesel is at around 52 degrees Celsius.
Interesting Read: Diesel Cars Banned In Delhi | What You Should Know!
Diesel engines require air compression to ignite the gasoline, and a greater air compression ratio causes the fuel to burn more quickly, increasing torque levels. The diesel engine’s longer strokes enable the piston to travel more, aiding in the torque.
But Why Turbo Charged?
In other words, in a diesel engine, the piston has to do more work to extract power from the fuel. Hence the compression ignition engines that are naturally aspirated are lethargic and take a lot of time to gain momentum.
Here are the 6 Reasons Why We Still Need Diesel Engines In India
Along with that, diesel engines also have a lower peak RPM. This is to keep the NVH levels in check. Otherwise, the motion of the piston will generate high-frequency vibrations. And these vibrations can be catastrophic.
Hence to make diesel engines drivable in the city and other applications, they often come with forced induction.
Forced induction in diesel engines allows the engine to increase the peak power and torque. Not just that, a turbocharger in the vehicle also aids in the increase of the overall engine efficiency. So, it’s a win-win situation. After all, a turbocharger takes the waste energy from the exhaust gasses.
GoMechanic News: No more Diesel cars in NCR?
So this is why 98% of the diesel engines used in automotive applications come with a turbocharger. Let us know in the comment section which engine do you prefer, a naturally aspirated petrol, turbo petrol or turbo diesel.
FAQs
1. Why are diesel engines turbocharged?
Diesel engines use turbochargers to push more air into the engine. More air means more fuel can burn, which gives more power and torque. This helps diesel engines perform better, especially at low speeds, and makes them good for carrying heavy loads and towing.
2. What is the purpose of a turbocharger on a diesel engine?
The purpose of a turbocharger is to increase engine power and efficiency. It uses exhaust gases to push extra air into the cylinders, helping the fuel burn better. This gives more power, better fuel economy, and lower pollution.
3. Why is the turbo default in a diesel engine?
Turbochargers are standard in diesel engines because diesel engines naturally produce less power. The turbo helps by using waste exhaust gas to add more air, which increases power and torque. This makes the engine smaller, stronger, and more efficient.
4. What are the advantages of a turbocharger in a diesel engine?
A turbocharger gives more power and torque, improves fuel efficiency, and reduces emissions. It also helps the engine work well at high altitudes and allows smaller engines to produce high performance without losing strength.
