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Turbocharging
Radial Turbochargers
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INTRODUCTION

The radial flow (sometimes referred to as a mixed flow) turbocharger is fitted to smaller engines. Manufactured for
outputs of up to 4700kW per turbocharger, the size is limited by manufacturing techniques and materials. The radial
turbocharger is more efficient (84%) than the axial turbocharger in these smaller sizes. It can operate with pressure ratios
of 4.5 - 5. Other advantages include compact lightweight design, reliability, long service intervals and easy maintenance.

Modern materials allow the use of HFO up to 720cSt. Earlier design of radial flow turbines could only be used with
MDO. Can be used with exhaust gas temperatures of up to 720C

The turbine and nozzle ring is similar in appearance to the compressor and diffuser, but of course the flow is in the
opposite direction.

The nozzles work in a similar way to conventional axial flow turbine nozzles; i.e. pressure
energy is converted into kinetic energy and the gas is directed onto the turbine wheel. As the
gas passes through the turbine wheel, it changes direction, and this change of direction
produces an impulsive force which turns the wheel. The nozzle ring can be replaced without
having to dismantle the turbine outlet casing and exhaust gas pipe.

The single piece turbine wheel is of an investment cast nickel alloy (highly wear resistant)
friction welded to the hardened steel shaft.

The uncooled casing of nodular cast iron aids the simplicity of the design, reduces the mass, and the risk of corrosion due
to water washing.

The Compressor wheel is milled from high tensile aluminium alloy.

The rotor is supported in inboard plain bearings with the thrust being taken at the compressor end, and expansion allowed
for at the turbine end. This gives a short strong rotor of high rigidity and low mass. It also allows undisturbed admission
of air and exit of gas, and easy access to turbine and compressor wheels. Bearing life 25000hrs+

Lubrication is from the main engine LO system. - no separate pump, cooler and filter required. or from a dedicated

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turbocharger lubrication system

Labyrinth glands (MAN B&W NR/S) or piston ring sealing (ABB

TPS) prevent leakage of air and exhaust gas into the bearing
casing,

VARIABLE NOZZLE RING GEOMETRY

The radial turbocharger lends itself to variable nozzle ring geometry for more efficient operation. In the type shown
above, two nozzle rings are used one for part load, the other for full load operation. Air pressure in a radial cylinder
pushes the nozzle ring from one position to the other.

In this experimental type the individual nozzle blades are moved by a ring gear
to the appropriate angle for the load. The advantage her is that the angle of the
nozzles is infinitely variable.

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