Variable Geometry and Waste-Gated Automotive Turbochargers: Measurements and Comparison of Turbine Performance Available to Purchase

In turbocharging automotive Diesel engines, an effective method to extend the turbine flow range and control the boost level is the use of a variable geometry turbine (VGT): This technique can be very helpful to improve the transient response of the engine and reduce exhaust emissions. In order to compare the performance of variable geometry and conventional waste-gated turbines, a thorough experimental investigation was developed on a test facility at the Department of Energetic Engineering of the University of Genoa (DINE). Two VG turbines were considered: a variable area turbine (VAT) and a variable nozzle turbine (VNT). The VG turbines were compared with a fixed geometry waste-gated turbine in both steady and unsteady flow conditions, referring to mass flow and efficiency characteristics.