supercharged

Supercharged refers to a method of forced induction used to increase an internal combustion engine’s power by supplying compressed air. A supercharger uses a mechanically driven compressor, typically belt-driven from the crankshaft, to raise the air density entering the engine, enabling more fuel to be burned and more horsepower. It is distinct from turbocharging, which uses exhaust energy to drive a turbine.

Common types are Roots-type, twin-screw, and centrifugal superchargers. Roots-type positive-displacement blowers push air with intermeshing lobes; twin-screw units use intermeshing rotors to trap and move air; centrifugal units use an impeller to raise pressure as air flows outward into a diffuser. All are driven by the engine and provide boost without depending on exhaust flow, offering different responses and efficiency characteristics.

Supercharging has been used in automobiles, aviation, and racing since the early 20th century. It delivers immediate boost at low engine speeds, reducing lag compared with some turbocharged systems, and remains common in high-performance street cars and certain aircraft engines. Modern implementations may employ electronic controls or hybrid arrangements to optimize boost, reliability, and efficiency.

Advantages include quick throttle response and consistent boost across a broad RPM range. Disadvantages include parasitic power losses from belt drive, increased heat and engine stress, higher fuel consumption, and greater mechanical complexity and maintenance needs. Some contemporary systems integrate electric compulsion or intercooling to mitigate heat and improve efficiency.

The term supercharged is also used metaphorically to describe intensified energy or activity, such as a “supercharged” performance or atmosphere.