Dominate the Oxford Reciprocating Engines Test 2025 – Rev Up Your Skills for Takeoff!

The waste gate of a turbo-supercharger is typically fitted in the turbine by-pass. The primary function of the waste gate is to control the flow of exhaust gases to the turbine, optimizing performance and preventing excessive boost pressure which can lead to engine damage.

When the engine is operating at low RPM or if the desired boost pressure has been achieved, the waste gate opens, allowing exhaust gases to bypass the turbine. This action prevents the turbocharger from spinning too quickly and producing more boost than the engine can handle. Therefore, its location in the turbine by-pass is crucial for managing the turbocharger's performance effectively.

Other options do not accurately represent the function or typical placement of the waste gate. The inlet manifold is responsible for mixing air and fuel before entering the cylinders, while causing high exhaust back pressure would unnecessarily reduce engine efficiency. Having the waste gate in series with the turbine would not allow for effective control of the boost, as it would not be able to bypass the exhaust flow when necessary. Hence, the correct choice is where the waste gate is placed in relation to the turbine by-pass.