Analytical and Experimental Investigation of the Stability of the Rotor-Bearing System of a New Small Turbocharger

Abstract

This paper presents an overview of the development of a reliable bearing system for a new line of small turbochargers where the bearing system has to be compatible with a new compressor and turbine design. The first part demonstrates how the increased weight of the turbine, due to a 40 % increase in flow capacity, influences the dynamic stability of the rotor-bearing system. The second part shows how stability can be improved by optimizing important floating ring parameters and by applying different bearing designs, such as profiled bore bearings supported on squeeze film dampers. Test results and stability analyses are included as well as the criteria which led to the decision to choose a squeeze film backed symmetrical 3-lobe bearing for this new turbocharger design.