Effect of Diffuser and Volute on Turbocharger Centrifugal Compressor Stability and Performance: Experimental Study

Abstract

Engine downsizing is potentially one of the most effective strategies being explored to improve fuel economy. A main problem of downsizing using a turbocharger is the small range of stable functioning of the turbocharger centrifugal compressor at high boost pressures. Several techniques were studied to increase the compressor operating range without sacrificing the compressor efficiency. This paper presents the effect of delaying diffuser stability on the compressor performance and surge line. Two different techniques were investigated, these are grooved and pinched diffuser. Moreover, the effect on retracting volute tongue on compressor performance is also studied. Pinched diffuser shifted surge line to low flow rates, while dropping pressure through compressor. On the other hand, some interesting results were obtained when using grooved diffuser, these are pressure increase at high flow rates, and choke line shift to high flow rates. While retracting volute tongue was interesting in improving compressor efficiency, and pressure lines at high speed. © 2011, IFP Energies nouvelles.