Intercooler are a crucial component in turbo engines, designed to improve performance and efficiency by cooling intake air.
Now, faced with the need to reduce polluting gas emissions, vehicle manufacturers are reducing displacement in vehicle engines more and more often.
But how can engines produce more power? Through superchargers and adding turbos.
Keep reading to find out what an intercooler is, how it works, and the different types available!
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What is an Intercooler?
An intercooler is an air-cooling component used in turbo engines, similar to a radiator.
While an air radiator cools the engine’s coolant fluid, an intercooler cools the air that feeds into the engine block.
What is the Purpose of an Intercooler?
The purpose of an intercooler is to reduce the temperature of the compressed air flowing through the turbo compressor, where temperatures can reach 700°C, before it reaches the engine cylinders.
Where is the Intercooler Located?
Intercoolers are located in the front of any vehicle due to the increased airflow in this location.
What Types of Intercoolers are there?
There are two types of exchangers:
-
Air Intercoolers
Air intercoolers are the most common on the market and are fed by outside air at room temperature, cooling the air inside the system;
-
Air/Water Intercoolers
Air/water intercoolers are widely used in compact cars, using water to cool the air circulating within them.
How do Intercoolers work in Turbo Engines?
Intercoolers push compressed air through the turbo or compressor, which reaches very high temperatures.
This dense air contains less oxygen, therefore affecting engine performance. The denser the air, the more power the engine has.
For a turbo engine to operate normally, compressed air is pumped into the component from the turbo and compressor, cooling it with air or water.
It then flows on to the engine cylinders at the optimum temperature.
How much does an Intercooler influence engine power?
As an alternative to reprogramming the electronic control unit, you can install an intercooler to cool the intake air in a combustion engine, increasing engine power.
It is important to remember that these changes are not legal and are made only for sporting purposes.
Does an Intercooler Affect Fuel Consumption?
Yes, an intercooler helps reduce fuel consumption by increasing engine power and efficiency and lowering the temperature of the compressed air sent to the engine.
What are the Benefits of an Intercooler?
Playing an essential role in improving engine performance and efficiency by providing thermal efficiency, the main advantages of an intercooler are that it:
- Cools the air flowing into the engine;
- Increases power;
- Improves engine efficiency;
- Increases engine durability by reducing the thermal load on internal engine components;
- Reduced fuel consumption.
Should your Intercooler be serviced regularly?
As with other vehicle components, preventive maintenance is required to avoid oil from pooling in the intercooler, for example.
As such, you should:
- Regularly inspect your intercooler;
- Clean your intercooler to prevent dirt from accumulating;
- Clean or replace air filters whenever necessary;
- Check the pressure system;
- Regularly inspect the air circuit that feeds the intercooler.
Which materials are required to clean an Intercooler?
To clean an intercooler correctly, follow the recommendations provided in your user manual. You’ll need the following materials:
- Water;
- Specific cleaning fluids.
How should you clean your car’s Intercooler?
To clean an intercooler, follow these instructions:
- Wear protective equipment (gloves, mask, and goggles);
- Remove the intercooler by removing each corresponding screw;
- Pour the oil inside into a bucket;
- Put it into another bucket to be able to clean it with the respective cleaning products;
- Spray cleaning fluid for specific use on the outside of the component;
- Let the residue sit for between 30 seconds and 1 minute;
- Rub with a wet cloth;
- Rinse again and let dry for 2 hours.
How do you Clean the Inside of an Intercooler?
In addition to the outside, you must also clean the inside of the component, as follows:
- Spray the inside with cleaning fluid;
- Let the residue sit for a few minutes;
- Rinse the inside of the component with water to wash off any remaining fluid;
- Leave to dry for a few hours;
- Reassemble, ensuring all the screws are replaced correctly.
What are the Symptoms of a Damaged Intercooler?
To avoid worrying that damage has been done to this component, pay attention to the main signs of damage:
1. Leaky Pipes
Installation problems can lead to leaky intercooler pipes.
Pipes and hoses fixed with cable ties can come loose if improperly installed.
2. Collision Damage
As it is located at the front of the vehicle, the component is susceptible to damage from collisions, rocks, and even road debris.
3. Oil contamination
If your car has recently had a turbo problem, it is likely that the intercooler was also affected.
One of the problems is oil from the turbocharger accumulating (thanks to turbo leaks), which prevents air from cooling effectively.
How much does an Intercooler cost?
Intercoolers cost around 100 euros, though their price will always depend on the vehicle in question.
You are advised to take your car to your trusted mechanic if it needs replacing.
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