Variable Area Turbocharger for High Output Diesel Engines

High output turbocharged diesel engines require efficient air delivery systems with high pressure ratio, broad range and surge-free compressors of very high efficiency. Similarly, high efficiency turbines with variable stators will be needed to maintain high turbine speed at times when engine speed and airflow are low. Theturbocharger that evolved in a U.S. Army TARADCOM sponsored program to meet these goals has a backward curved centrifugal compressor with a wedge type moveable vane diffuser for surge control and a radial inflow turbine with individually pivoted nozzle vanes for inlet flow area control. After several design iterations and bench tests, extensive engine tests were conducted to demonstrate the substantial improvements in diesel engine performance that are attainable with these turbochargers.