The development of a high efficiency microturbine generator for a vehicle

Abstract

Abstract Currently, microturbines are becoming increasingly common in power generation. There is a desire to use them as an energy source for the hybrid cars with the wheels driven by an electric motor. However, stationary microturbines are not well adapted for use on the automobiles. The main differences are frequent engine stops and lack of space for large heat exchangers. These differences lead to a decrease in the engine efficiency. The article discusses the technical solutions for the design of microturbines with high efficiency, small size of the heat exchanger and the bearings with reduced friction losses. The calculation studies have shown a possibility of achieving high efficiency for microturbines in a car. Currently, tests of real engine components to confirm the calculations have ended. Based on the test data, a microturbine is being designed. This microturbine will have been made by the end of this year.