Etterkølers

Etterkølers, also known as aftercoolers or intercoolers, are heat exchangers used in internal combustion engines and other systems to cool compressed air. The primary purpose of an etterkøler is to reduce the temperature of the air that has been compressed by a turbocharger or supercharger before it enters the engine's cylinders.

When air is compressed, its temperature increases significantly. Hotter air is less dense, meaning it contains fewer oxygen molecules per unit volume. By cooling the compressed air, the etterkøler increases its density, allowing more oxygen to enter the combustion chamber. This leads to a more efficient combustion process, resulting in increased engine power and torque. Additionally, cooler intake air can help reduce the risk of engine knocking, a phenomenon where the fuel-air mixture ignites prematurely.

Etterkølers typically work by using a secondary fluid, most commonly ambient air or engine coolant, to absorb heat from the compressed intake air. Air-to-air etterkølers use the flow of air around the vehicle or a dedicated fan to cool the compressed air passing through internal passages. Air-to-liquid etterkølers use engine coolant or a separate cooling circuit to achieve the same cooling effect. The design and placement of the etterkøler are crucial for optimal performance and can vary widely depending on the application and the type of forced induction system employed. They are a common component in performance-oriented vehicles and industrial machinery.