Project Aim:
The research proposed aims to bring an integrated approach to deliver innovation through two novel concepts (a Variable Geometry Turbine and a Fixed Geometry Turbine), both based on axial turbine technology. The two concepts proposed aim to offer a unique gasoline engine variable geometry and dedicated pulsating flow energy recovery benefits, leading in both cases to improved turbine total-to-static efficiency, lower inertia, improved "time to torque", and improved fuel consumption and emissions, compared to conventional designs. As such the specific aims of the project are:
To understand the fundamental limits of exploitation of the inherent advantages of the two novel, axial turbine concepts and ensure that the underlying science is applied in their design process to achieve higher levels of gasoline engine exhaust energy recovery and reduced fuel consumption compared to established technologies.
To assess the viability of the concepts in providing VGT capability and superior pulsating flow performance for modern gasoline engines but also beyond and across the range of turbocharged ICE applications.
Project objectives:
1. To achieve levels of fuel efficiency equal to or higher than 2% for both of the proposed systems compared to established radial and mixed-flow turbines.
2. To evaluate the viability of the concepts and understand the real-world issues that will affect advanced axial turbocharger turbine concepts, through realistic on-engine testing.
3. To evaluate the validity of methods and viability of the concepts through standalone testing of the two concept turbochargers at the standalone test facility
4. To optimise the design of the two proposed, advanced axial turbocharger turbine concepts prior to experimental validation.
5. To inform and further develop the modelling methodologies applied in the in-house code to better predict axial turbocharger turbine performance.
6. To understand the issues affecting axial turbine efficiency under realistic (pulsating, hot) exhaust flow and to understand the issues affecting the scaling of the technologies proposed