10.1 State TWO purposes of a supercharger - NSC Mechanical Technology Welding and Metalwork - Question 10 - 2017 - Paper 1

1. Superchargers are commonly used in racing cars to increase engine performance.

2. They are also found in four-stroke compression ignition engines in heavy vehicles.

A turbocharger operates by using exhaust gases from an internal combustion engine to spin an impeller. This action forces air into the engine's intake, enhancing performance. The essential steps include:

1. Exhaust Gases Drive the Turbine: The turbocharger is driven by the exhaust gases, which spin the turbine connected to the compressor.

2. Air Compression: As the turbine spins, it causes the compressor wheel to rotate, drawing in ambient air and compressing it.

3. Increased Air Flow: The compressed air is then forced into the engine, allowing for a higher volumetric flow of air.

4. Boosting Engine Power: With more air in the combustion chamber, more fuel can be injected, leading to an increase in engine power output.

The operation of a steam turbine involves several phases:

1. Steam Generation: Water is heated in a boiler to produce high-temperature steam.

2. Pressure Release: The steam is directed onto the turbine blades, causing them to rotate.

3. Mechanical Energy Production: As the turbine spins, it converts steam energy into mechanical energy, which can be used to drive generators or other machinery.

1. Water turbines
2. Gas turbines
3. Wind turbines