Study of the Influence of Operational Factors on the Performance of a Turbocharger of a Gasoline Internal Combustion Engine

Abstract

The influence of operating factors on the durability of a turbocharger in a gasoline internal combustion engine is investigated. A study was conducted on operating conditions that most significantly determine the performance and durability of the turbocharger’s bearing assembly. Particular attention is given to parameters such as the rotor speed immediately prior to engine shutdown, changes in clearances within the bearing assembly, and the drop in oil pressure after the engine stops. The main causes of reduced durability of the assembly were identified, including violations of lubrication regimes, overheating, abrasive wear, thermocyclic fatigue, oil starvation, and the use of low-quality fuel and lubricants. It was established that these factors significantly affect the characteristics of the lubrication process, the thermal state, and the wear intensity of turbocharger components, thereby determining its reliability and service life. Calculations were performed to assess the impact of operating modes on the stress state of the rotor, lubrication conditions of the bearing assembly, and wear intensity. It is shown that the combined effect of unfavorable factors can reduce the service life by more than 2.8 times.