What does Twin Turbo do? That’s the question on many car enthusiasts’ and speed demons’ minds. Twin Turbo is an engine layout that employs two turbochargers to increase performance and power.
Twin Turbo engines can improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, making them an appealing option for environmentally conscious drivers. Understanding what Twin Turbo engines can do is vital whether you’re a gearhead eager to push the limits of performance or a commuter looking for a more efficient journey. So strap in and join us as we explore the thrilling world of Twin Turbo technology.
What is a Twin Turbo?
Two turbochargers operate together to compress the intake fuel/air combination (or intake air in the case of a direct-injection engine). The most common version employs two identical or mirrored turbochargers that operate concurrently, each processing half of the exhaust produced by a V engine via separate pipes. The size of the two turbochargers can be the same or different.
What Does Twin Turbo Do?
By pumping more air into the engine, the twin-turbo helps to boost its power production. That improves acceleration and overall performance, making it a common component in high-performance automobiles and sports cars.
Despite of the enormous advantages, twin-turbos do have some drawbacks, including increased complexity and potentially higher maintenance costs. Let’s examine how the twin-turbo works and affects your driving experience
How Does a Twin Turbocharger Work?
A twin turbocharger works by compressing the air entering the combustion chamber of an engine, allowing more fuel to be burned effectively and producing greater power and torque.
As the RPMs rise, the second turbocharger engages, supplying additional compressed air to the engine. Twin turbos require accurate calibration to produce the best performance, typically accomplished through electronic controls and manual tweaking.
- The most commonly used turbo setup is the parallel twin turbo setup, utilized in engines with V-orientation, such as V6s, V8s, V10s, and V12s. This setup involves two identical turbochargers feeding a bank of cylinders each, and it is the earliest and simplest form of twin turbocharging in terms of exhaust piping.
- On the other hand, series turbo setups position the two turbochargers in a series. A smaller turbocharger compresses the air before sending it to a larger turbocharger, which further compresses it before giving it to the engine.
- The sequential twin turbocharger setup is gaining popularity due to its versatility compared to the other two setups. This setup involves two turbochargers, where a smaller one is used at lower engine speeds, and as the revs rise, the second, larger one takes over.
Alternatively, both turbochargers may deliver boost simultaneously under high rpm and loads.
How Many Types of Twin Turbos Are There?
Parallel Twin Turbo
Parallel twin-turbo engines use two similarly sized turbochargers in a parallel layout, where each turbocharger receives half of the exhaust gases. This setup is ideal for V-shaped engines, such as V6 and V8, as each turbocharger can be assigned to one cylinder bank, minimizing the exhaust piping required for the system.
It also reduces turbo lag, a common issue in turbocharged vehicles, using two smaller turbochargers instead of a single large one.
Sequential Twin Turbo
Engines with sequential twin-turbo systems use two turbochargers, one for low-speed efficiency and the other (or both) for high-speed efficiency. This setup addresses the problem of low RPM turbo lag by using a smaller turbocharger for low speeds and a larger one for high speeds.
Series Twin Turbo
Series twin-turbo engines have turbochargers set up in a sequence or series. The second turbocharger compresses the first’s output, resulting in a huge pressure rise and power boost.
What are the Advantages of Twin Turbos?
- In terms of twin turbo systems, a parallel arrangement is the most efficient for engine bay packaging and the quantity of exhaust pipe necessary. It also allows using smaller turbos instead of larger ones, as larger turbos can lead to turbo lag at lower revs. Although a parallel turbo setup still suffers from some lag, it is cost-effective.
- A series turbo setup, on the other hand, can be more difficult to fine-tune, as controlling the boost is crucial to prevent damage to the second turbocharger and engine. However, it can minimize turbo lag to a great extent by pre-charging the second turbocharger, similar to Twincharger setups in some engines.
- The sequential dual turbocharger configuration is gaining popularity among manufacturers because it eliminates turbo lag when properly regulated. It may offer a noticeable increase as low as 1,800rpm, making it suitable for stop-and-go traffic where parallel setups may underperform.
Sequential twin turbos are the most complex setup, needing more inlet and exhaust pipework, and can be costly to diagnose and fix.
From Where Can I Buy Twin Turbos?
Now if you’re looking to purchase a twin-turbo setup or turbo kit, Diesel Components Inc is your go-to place. We offer a wide selection of stock and individual components to help you create a customized setup perfect for your needs. With the help of our experts, you’ll be able to find the ideal setup for your vehicle. You can contact us by visiting our website or calling (800) 252-6625 or (952) 890-2885. You can also write to us at sales@dieselcomponentsinc.com.
