How much heat do a turbocharger extract from exhaust gases in an ic engine?

In an internal combustion engine, the turbocharger extracts a significant amount of heat from the exhaust gases to drive the turbine, which in turn compresses the intake air. The exact amount of heat extracted depends on various factors such as engine design, turbocharger size, and operating conditions. However, it is generally estimated that a turbocharger can extract up to 35% of the total heat energy present in the exhaust gases.

Here's a breakdown of the heat transfer process in a turbocharger:

1. Exhaust Gas Flow: The hot exhaust gases from the engine are directed into the turbocharger's turbine housing.

2. Turbine Blades: The high-velocity exhaust gases strike the turbine blades, causing them to rotate rapidly.

3. Heat Transfer: As the turbine blades rotate, they absorb heat from the exhaust gases through convection and conduction. This heat transfer process increases the temperature of the turbine blades and the surrounding components.

4. Shaft Rotation: The rotational energy of the turbine blades is transferred to the turbocharger's shaft.

5. Compressed Air: The shaft rotation drives the compressor wheel on the other end of the turbocharger. The compressor wheel compresses the intake air, increasing its pressure and temperature.

6. Intercooling (Optional): Some turbocharged engines feature an intercooler between the turbocharger and the engine. The intercooler helps cool the compressed air, increasing its density and improving engine performance.

7. Reduced Exhaust Temperature: After passing through the turbocharger, the exhaust gases are typically cooler and have lower energy content compared to the raw exhaust gases from the engine.

It's important to note that while the turbocharger extracts heat from the exhaust gases, it also increases the overall efficiency of the engine by utilizing the waste heat to generate compressed air for combustion. This process improves fuel efficiency and enhances engine performance.