How does a supercharger in car work?

A supercharger is a device that increases the power output of an internal combustion engine by forcing more air into the combustion chamber. Unlike a turbocharger, which uses exhaust gases to drive a turbine, a supercharger is mechanically driven, usually by the engine's crankshaft via a belt. This means it provides boost immediately, without lag.

Here's a breakdown of how it works:

1. Driven by the Engine: The supercharger is connected to the engine's crankshaft via a belt or gears. As the engine rotates, the supercharger spins as well.

2. Intake Air Compression: The supercharger contains an impeller (a type of fan with curved blades). This impeller spins rapidly, drawing in air from the intake system. The impeller's design forces the air into a smaller volume, increasing its pressure.

3. Increased Air Density: This compressed air is denser than atmospheric air. Denser air contains more oxygen molecules.

4. More Fuel, More Power: Because more oxygen is available, the engine's computer can inject more fuel, allowing for a larger and more powerful explosion during combustion. This translates directly to increased horsepower and torque.

5. Delivery to the Engine: The compressed air is then delivered to the engine's intake manifold, ready to be mixed with fuel and ignited in the cylinders.

Types of Superchargers:

There are two main types:

* Roots-type superchargers: These use two counter-rotating lobes to compress the air. They are known for their relatively simple design and high boost capability at lower engine speeds. However, they can be less efficient at very high RPMs.

* Centrifugal superchargers: These use an impeller similar to a turbocharger's turbine, but driven mechanically. They are generally more efficient at higher RPMs and produce less heat than Roots-type superchargers.

Advantages of Superchargers:

* Immediate boost: No turbo lag – power is available instantly.

* Relatively simple design: Generally less complex than turbochargers.

Disadvantages of Superchargers:

* Parasitic loss: They draw power directly from the engine, reducing the engine's overall efficiency slightly.

* Higher engine stress: The increased pressure and heat can put more stress on engine components.

* More expensive than turbochargers (generally): Though this gap is narrowing.

In short, a supercharger acts as an air pump, increasing the amount of air entering the engine's cylinders, leading to a significant boost in power.