What are the main challenges and solutions for lubricating turbocharged engines?

Turbocharged engines are becoming more popular in the automotive industry, as they offer higher performance and efficiency than naturally aspirated engines. However, turbocharging also poses some challenges for the lubrication system of the engine, which is essential for reducing friction, wear, and heat. In this article, you will learn about the main challenges and solutions for lubricating turbocharged engines, and how to choose the right oil for your turbo engine.

1 Turbocharger basics

A turbocharger is a device that uses the exhaust gas from the engine to spin a turbine, which in turn drives a compressor that forces more air into the engine cylinders. This increases the power output and fuel efficiency of the engine, as it can burn more fuel and air in each cycle. However, a turbocharger also generates a lot of heat and pressure, which can affect the lubrication system of the engine.

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2 Lubrication challenges

One of the main challenges for lubricating turbocharged engines is to provide adequate oil flow and pressure to the turbocharger bearings, which operate at very high speeds and temperatures. The oil must be able to withstand the thermal and mechanical stresses, and prevent coking, which is the formation of carbon deposits that can block the oil passages and damage the turbocharger. Another challenge is to prevent oil leakage from the turbocharger seals, which can cause oil consumption and smoke emissions. Finally, the lubrication system must also cope with the increased load and heat generated by the engine itself, which can affect the oil viscosity, oxidation, and wear protection.

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Ricardo Torres De Martin

Gerente de Engenharia Vedamotors Athena
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I trully believe that one of the key challenges for all kind of turbocharger application on ICE powertrain still is the heat management to avoid heat soak back issues mainly. The lubricant oil formulation (including its additive package specification) also needs to evolve aiming to overcome the carbon build up issues. Depending on thermal exposure turbocharger performance over lifetime could be severely reduced leading to critical failure modes initiation. The fact of the carbon build-up layer deposits over main turbocharger components and main bearing internal surfaces could lead to the formation of a nocive thermal shielding effect thus contributing to premature and critical failure mode initiation.

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3 Lubrication solutions

To overcome the challenges of lubricating turbocharged engines, it is necessary to use a synthetic or semi-synthetic oil with a high viscosity index to maintain its thickness and lubricity over a wide range of temperatures. Additionally, the oil should meet the engine manufacturer's specifications, which may differ depending on the type, size, and design of the turbocharger and engine. It is also important to check the oil level and quality regularly, replacing the oil and filter according to the maintenance schedule. This will prevent oil degradation, contamination, and sludge formation. To further ensure proper lubrication performance and turbocharger life, it is recommended to avoid abrupt acceleration or deceleration when the engine is cold or hot.

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Ricardo Torres De Martin

Gerente de Engenharia Vedamotors Athena
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Oil formulation needs to withstand higher peak operation temperature avoiding or reducing to the minimum the carbon build up and varnish formation at the same time. A proper turbocharger design guidelines and best practices by means of thermal g simulation and vehicle testing would be preferential to insure acceptable and suitable turbocharger lifetime.

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4 Oil selection tips

Selecting the correct oil for a turbocharged engine can have a major impact on its performance and durability. Firstly, consult the owner's manual or the oil cap for the recommended oil viscosity and grade, such as 5W-30 or 10W-40. The lower the number before the W, the better it flows when cold, while the higher number after the W indicates better protection when hot. Secondly, check for oil certification marks on the label, such as API, ACEA, or ILSAC, which guarantee that it meets certain quality and performance standards. Additionally, you can look for specific approvals from engine or turbocharger manufacturers, such as VW, Ford, or Garrett. Thirdly, compare features and benefits of different brands and types of oil, like synthetic, semi-synthetic, or conventional. Synthetic oils tend to be more expensive but offer better performance and protection than conventional oils. Lastly, consider your driving conditions and habits to determine which oil properties and change intervals are best suited for your needs. For instance, if you drive in extreme temperatures or in stop-and-go traffic you may need an oil that can handle these conditions and prevent sludge formation. Ultimately, by following these tips you can lubricate your turbocharged engine effectively and reap its rewards for a long time.

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5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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What are the main challenges and solutions for lubricating turbocharged engines?

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1 Turbocharger basics

2 Lubrication challenges

3 Lubrication solutions

4 Oil selection tips

5 Here’s what else to consider

Internal Combustion Engines

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