Experimental Evaluation of the Active Control Turbocharger Prototype under Simulated Engine Conditions

摘要

The current paper presents the results from a comprehensive set of experimental tests on the first prototype active control turbocharger allowing a final evaluation of the first prototype of the active control turbocharger to be gained in a simulated-engine test rig conditions (since hot engine exhaust flow was simulated through equivalent compressed air cold flow test conditions). Data was obtained throughout the turbocharger speed and load range during unsteady operation. Three modes of testing were employed: FGT (Fixed Geometry Turbocharger), VGT (Variable Geometry Turbocharger) and ACT (Active Control Turbocharger). FGT and VGT tests were employed as a reference (of turbochargers predominantly in use today) against which ACT performance was compared. The effects of phasing the variable area device at 30°, 60°, 90° and 240° relative to the pulse generator opening time were assessed. Overall, the Active Control Turbocharger provided encouraging results in terms of the benefit in actual power recovered. The current system is penalised by an inefficient area-regulating design, but it was the easiest and most reliable method to carry out the investigation with, in this first prototype attempt. ACT offers a distinct potential for increased internal combustion engine power output compared to current state-of-the-art, VGT-equipped engines.