One of the most important components of a turbo is the wastegate. A wastegate has an important role in a turbo, and you should know certain facts to ensure you understand its function. Read on for some interesting things to know about wastegates.
The Role of a Wastegate
It’s important to know the role of a wastegate to understand how it affects the turbo and the engine. A wastegate releases excess exhaust from the turbo to prevent the turbine wheel from spinning quickly.
The wastegate has settings that cause it to open when a specific amount of pressure builds in the turbine housing. It will open and release the gas through a pressure release valve to maintain a flow of exhaust, and the turbo will create a controlled boost for the engine.
Different Types of Wastegates
The primary wastegate types include external and internal, which are inside or outside of the turbo, respectively. These wastegates branch into other types—electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic—that open via different methods ranging from electrical components to vacuum tubing.
You’ll have options for various turbos from different brands and designs. For example, Garrett turbos have special ball-bearing technology that puts less stress on parts moving the wastegate. This technology helps Garrett turbo dealers sell models in large quantities due to their popularity.
The Size of the Wastegate Affects Boost
Wastegates have not only different components but also different sizes. Small wastegates produce more bursts in the engine because the exhaust valve is thinner and won’t release as much as bigger wastegates, causing the turbine and compressor wheel to spin faster. Large wastegates create smaller boosts from more exhaust that won’t cause the turbine to spin faster.
Wastegates Require Maintenance
The wastegate needs maintenance, like the turbo and the engine, as a mechanical or electrical part. Maintenance is an important thing to know about wastegates to keep them functioning properly. The continuous opening and closing of the wastegate will eventually cause some wear, especially when you lower the amount of boost and cause more exhaust to flow from the turbo.
The butterfly and actuator shaft must remain lubricated to prevent wear. Cleaning the wastegate will ensure no obstructions are in the way and decreases the release of exhaust.
Wastegates Will Affect Different Engine Sizes
Engines come in different sizes, like turbos, and the right wastegate is necessary for the best boost. If you have a small engine with a small wastegate, there’s less exhaust to release from the small engine, and the boost won’t feel as significant. Understanding each part that the wastegate affects is important to have a turbo with the most effective change in your vehicle.
Wastegates are interesting components of turbos and have an essential role. Understanding these facts about wastegates is essential to ensure it functions properly and that you have the boost you want.