What is An External Wastegate?
External wastegates are devices that control boost. They limit the exhaust gases that flow through the turbocharger. Therefore, control the maximum boost pressure produced by the turbocharger itself. External wastegates consist of:
- An inlet and outlet port.
- A valve.
- A pressure actuator.
How Does An External Wastegate Work?
Boost pressure controls a pressure actuator and determines if the wastegate is open or shut. The wastegate is shut in a rest position. Furthermore, force is applied to the actuator when boost pressure is built. When the boost pressure exceeds the spring value. The actuator progressively opens the wastegate. Therefore, it will bypass some of the exhaust gases, while boost pressure is maintained at the set level. Very simply, wastegates prevent the boost pressure from climbing. This is important as it could result in a blown engine.
When is An External Wastegate Needed?
Most factory turbo systems feature an external wastegate designed to handle stock boost levels. When should you invest in an external wastegate? Here is a list of reasons why you would:
- Fitting an aftermarket turbo.
- Better control of the boost.
- Consequently the power output of your engine.
Most large frame turbochargers are not equipped with an internal wastegate system. Engine's that produce more than 400hp should upgrade to an external wastegate. Since a factory internal wastegate actuator spring could become overpowered by the high boost. Therefore, limits the maximum boost level that could be achieved.
Aftermarket external wastegates feature:
- A Large inlet and outlet port.
- High pressure spring.
- A Large actuator diaphragm, with a pupose to effectively control high boost pressure.
What’s So Special About Turbosmart Wastegates?
Turbosmart designed wastegates are special because they:
- Offer a superior flow path.
- Are high-temperature resistant.
- Engineered to outperform and outlast the competition.