Oil Coking in Turbochargers


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Turbochargers operate under extreme conditions, with temperatures reaching up to 1000°C. For this reason, their cooling and lubrication systems are crucial to ensuring long-term and efficient performance. Poor cooling can lead to one of the most dangerous phenomena – Oil Coking, where the oil overheats, loses its properties, and turns into carbon deposits and tar-like residues.

Oil Coking – Oil Overheating and Carbon Deposit Formation

Oil Coking occurs when engine oil overheats at high temperatures, causing it to carbonize and turn into solid carbon residues. This typically happens in the turbo bearings and shaft areas, where the temperature is the highest.

Consequences of Poor Oil Circulation

Thermal Breakdown – Oil Degradation at High Temperatures

Thermal Breakdown occurs when prolonged high temperatures cause the oil’s molecular structure to degrade, leading to loss of viscosity and lubrication properties.

Oil Oxidation – Degradation Due to Oxygen Exposure

Oil Oxidation is a process where prolonged exposure to oxygen and high temperatures causes chemical breakdown, leading to sludge formation and increased oil viscosity.

Hot Shutdown Damage – The Risk of Sudden Engine Shutdown

Hot Shutdown Damage occurs when an engine is shut down immediately after high load operation. Without proper cooldown time, residual oil can overheat, causing Oil Coking and mechanical damage to the turbocharger.

How to Avoid Oil Overheating and Extend Turbocharger Life?

Proper turbocharger maintenance will not only reduce the risk of oil overheating but also ensure long-lasting and efficient engine performance.

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