Forced Induction
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Forced induction is a term used to describe internal combustion engines that are not naturally aspirated. Instead, a gas compressor is added to the air intake, thereby increasing the quantity of air or air-fuel mixture available for combustion. This includes Turbochargers, Superchargers, Nitrous systems, and other mechanical systems, but not hood scoops which just direct outside air into the engine. Both Superchargers and Turbos use a compressor to "force" air into the engine, making it more dense (i.e. more oxygen). When a proportionately larger amount of fuel is added to the denser air charge, the mixture creates a much larger explosion and thus more power from the engine. Nitrous Oxide Systems (NOS) work by directly injecting Nitrous Oxide (N20) into the engine. The higher concentration of oxygen found in N20 (compared to air) and more fuel leads to the same effect as Superchargers and Turbos. Although the basic concepts are similar, each differs in their design and execution.
