Gasket-equipped flange fitting for turbocharging system

Abstract

A flange assembly (110) for a turbocharging system (100) is described. The flange assembly includes a housing assembly (112) of a turbocharging system (100), the housing assembly having a first flange portion; and an auxiliary assembly (111) of the turbocharging system (100), the auxiliary assembly having a second flange portion (115). The housing assembly (112) and the auxiliary assembly (111) are attached to each other via the first flange portion and the second flange portion using a plurality of fastening elements (113). The flange assembly also includes a gasket (120, 220) disposed at least partially at one of the first flange portion and the second flange portion and secured to the flange portion. Furthermore, the use of the gasket (120, 220) in a flange fitting (110) of a turbocharging system (100) is described herein.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to flange fittings for turbocharger systems. In addition, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to the use of a gasket in a flange fitting of a turbocharger system. Background Art

[0002] A turbocharger system comprises several housing components and other auxiliary components, such as an intake component or an exhaust component, which are fixedly connected to one another by means of a flange connection, for example by a bolt connection of two flange joints.

[0003] During operation of the turbocharger system, these components and the corresponding flange parts are subject to high mechanical loads. High mechanical stresses may lead to component failure. Failure of a mechanical component of the turbocharger system may cause damage to "spread" to other components of the turbocharger system that may not be directly affected by the initial occurrence of the failure nor by damage to external components.

[0004] For example, a flange of an intake assembly may break at or near the opening in the flange containing the connection bolts. Even though the bolts may still be intact, the bolted connection may be lost in this case. These and related situations should be avoided to avoid the risk of losing too many bolted connections and the intake port possibly breaking and falling off the turbocharger. Another undesirable situation may be due to axial movement between the two components of the flange assembly, which may be caused by the inertia of one of the components (for example, if the material properties of the two components are different). This may lead to radial cracks in one or both of the flange parts of the components. Additionally or alternatively, rotation may occur between the components of the flange assembly due to the inertia of one of the components (for example, if the material properties of the two components are different). In this case, breaking of the flange outside the hole and / or slipping of the bolts out of the connection should be avoided. Summary of the invention

[0005] In view of the above, a flange assembly for a turbocharger system and the use of a gasket in a flange assembly for a turbocharger system are provided to overcome at least some of the above limitations and / or reduce the risk of some undesirable situations. In particular, it is an object of the invention to provide a flange assembly that is able to inhibit damage, such as preventing damage from spreading to other components that are not directly affected by the initial occurrence of a fault. This object is achieved by means of a flange assembly according to claim 1 and a gasket according to claim 15. Further aspects, advantages and features are apparent from the dependent claims, the description and the description of the drawings.

[0006] According to an aspect of the present invention, a flange assembly for a turbocharger system is provided. The flange assembly includes a housing assembly of the turbocharger system, the housing assembly having a first flange portion. The flange assembly also includes an auxiliary assembly of the turbocharger system, the auxiliary assembly having a second flange portion. The housing assembly and the auxiliary assembly are attached to each other via the first flange portion and the second flange portion using a plurality of fastening elements. The flange assembly includes a gasket at least partially arranged at one of the first flange portion and the second flange portion and fixed to the flange portion. The gasket includes a first radially inward portion and a second radially inward portion circumferentially spaced from the first radially inward portion, each of the first radially inward portion and the second radially inward portion including a through hole, and a corresponding one of the fastening elements extending through the through hole. The gasket also includes a third radially inward portion circumferentially spaced from the first radially inward portion and the second radially inward portion. The third radially inward portion is configured to provide a contact area for one of the first flange portion and the second flange portion. The gasket includes a connecting portion connected to each of the first radially inward portion, the second radially inward portion, and the third radially inward portion.

[0007] The gasket of the present disclosure comprises at least two radially inward portions with through holes. The radially inward portions allow the gasket to be connected to the auxiliary component and the housing component by means of at least two fastening elements. If the flange portion of one or more of the auxiliary component and the housing component breaks at a fastening element connection, the flange assembly is held in place by the combination of the intact connection between the fastening element and the flange portion and the gasket. The damaged component (auxiliary component or housing component) is protected from falling off the turbocharger system.

[0008] The gasket of the present disclosure allows to increase the contact area between the gasket and the auxiliary or housing component. This is achieved in particular by providing a third radially inward portion, and preferably by having the first radially inward portion and the second radially inward portion extend through the flange portion (of the auxiliary component or the housing component). The increased contact area of ​​the gasket reduces the stress around the through hole of the first radially inward portion and the second radially inward portion, in particular in the event of a break in one of the auxiliary component and the housing component at a fastening element connection.

[0009] When referring to axial, radial or circumferential directions in this document, the respective directions are defined by the flange portion of the assembly, which in embodiments correspond to the direction defined by the axis of the turbocharger.The axial direction is substantially perpendicular to the main surface of the flange portion of the assembly.

[0010] Turbocharger systems typically include a plurality of components that are releasably connected to one another via flange portions. The present invention is not limited to a particular flange assembly of a turbocharger system.

[0011] When one of the components is brittle or one of the components is more brittle than the other component, it is best to use a flange assembly to connect the components. For example, where one of the components (such as an auxiliary component) is a cast aluminum component, the flange assembly of the present disclosure is particularly advantageous. The flange assembly of the present disclosure is particularly advantageous for an intake component of a turbocharger system, the housing of which may be more brittle than other components, especially if the housing is made of cast aluminum.

[0012] In an exemplary embodiment, the housing assembly is a housing assembly of a compressor of a turbocharger system. The assembly can accommodate a rotating assembly of the turbocharger system, such as an impeller of the compressor.

[0013] Additionally or alternatively, the auxiliary component may be an intake component of the turbocharger system. For example, the auxiliary component may be a muffler component, a suction branch, a compensator or a supply line component for connecting the first turbocharger stage to the second turbocharger stage (preferably a muffler).

[0014] The fastening elements of the flange assembly are not particularly limited, but preferably allow a releasable connection between the (auxiliary and housing) components. Typically, the fastening element may be a combination of a screw or bolt and two nuts, or a combination of a stud bolt and a nut. For example, one of the (auxiliary or housing) components may have a threaded stud bolt. The other component may include a through hole for receiving a stud bolt therethrough, and the component may be fixed to the other by means of a nut. Alternatively, both components (auxiliary component or housing component) may include a through hole for receiving an attachment element.

[0015] A plurality of fastening elements are arranged circumferentially around the flange portion, and in particular circumferentially around the radially outer end of the flange portion.

[0016] The gasket is preferably arranged at the side of the flange of one of the components (auxiliary components or housing components) away from the other components. In other words, the gasket is preferably not arranged between the two flange parts of the component, but arranged outside or outside of one of the flanges (or the first flange part and the second flange part). The contact surface between the housing component and the auxiliary component can be generated by attaching the first flange part to the second flange part by a plurality of fastening elements. The outside or exterior of each of the first flange part and the second flange part is the side away from the contact surface. The gasket can be formed by metal. The gasket can be arranged between the fastening element (particularly the end of the fastening element) and the side (particularly the outside) of one of the flange parts. The gasket can improve the connection between the flange part and the fastening element.

[0017] In addition, the flange assembly may also include an O-ring, a gasket or other suitable device located between the two flange portions of the housing component and the auxiliary component. The gasket may be a shaped sheet for sealing the joint between the housing component and the auxiliary component. The gasket and the washer are different components. In other words, the gasket is not a gasket.

[0018] The fastening element may have an axial component which extends through the washer, in particular the first radially inward portion and the second radially inward portion of the washer, and also through the first flange portion or the second flange portion and subsequently through the remaining flange portion (the second flange portion or the first flange portion).

[0019] The fastening element preferably has an axial end portion in direct contact with the washer, in particular an axial end portion in direct contact with the first radially inward portion and the second radially inward portion of the washer. The washer is preferably also in direct contact with one of the first flange portion or the second flange portion. In other words, the washer can be axially clamped between the first flange portion or the second flange portion and the axial end portion of the fastening element.

[0020] Preferably, the washer is axially arranged between the axial end portion of the fastening element and the second flange portion of the auxiliary component (i.e. the surface of the second flange portion facing away from the first flange portion), in particular when the auxiliary component is a fragile component, for example made of cast aluminum. Each of the first radially inward portion, the second radially inward portion and the third radially inward portion can be arranged above and in contact with the second flange portion. Each of the first radially inward portion and the second radially inward portion can be arranged between one of the fastening elements and the second flange portion of the auxiliary component.

[0021] The washer may be integrally formed, ie formed from one piece of material. For example, the washer may be formed from a sheet of material. The first radially inward portion, the second radially inward portion and the third radially inward portion are preferably each flat and lie in a common plane.

[0022] The first radially inward portion, the second radially inward portion and the third radially inward portion of the gasket may generally be arranged completely within the outer periphery of the flange portion (the first flange portion or the second flange portion). The first radially inward portion, the second radially inward portion and the third radially inward portion may be adjacent to each other, but preferably do not contact each other and / or do not abut each other. The gasket does not form a continuous surface within the outer periphery of the flange portion (the first flange portion or the second flange portion), but is interrupted by radially inward portions spaced apart from each other.

[0023] The connection portion of the gasket may also be considered as the radially outward portion of the gasket. The connection portion may generally be arranged mostly or completely radially outward from the outer periphery or radial end of the flange portion. The connection portion may not be radially arranged or sandwiched between the flange portion and the fastening element. The connection portion may not contact the fastening element and / or the flange portion.

[0024] The connecting portion may have several sections. Exemplarily, the connecting portion may include a section for each radially inward portion of the gasket, and optionally a section for connecting these sections. Alternatively, the connecting portion may include two sections: a first section connecting the first radially inward portion and the third radially inward portion, and a second section connecting the third radially inward portion and the second radially inward portion. The sections of the connecting portion may be different, for example, different in their radial and / or circumferential dimensions.

[0025] The gasket may include any number (but at least three) of radially inward portions, each radially inward portion being circumferentially spaced apart from an adjacent radially inward portion. For example, the gasket may include a fourth radially inward portion, the fourth radially inward portion including a through hole through which a respective one of the fastening elements extends, and / or the fourth radially outward portion does not include a through hole.

[0026] The radially inward portions may be spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. Thus, a radial recess may be formed between pairs of circumferentially adjacent radially inward portions. The radial recess may be defined in the circumferential direction by the adjacent radially inward portions of the corresponding pair and in the radially outward direction by the connecting portion. The radial recess may be open on the radially inner side of the recess. At least one of the radial recesses may extend radially outward further than the flange.

[0027] In particular, a first radial recess may be defined between the first radially inward portion and the third radially inward portion; and a second radial recess may be defined between the second radially inward portion and the third radially inward portion. The first radial recess may extend radially outward further than the second radial recess. The radial recess allows for accommodating a stabilizing structure (e.g., a strut) of the flange region extending therethrough, while a connecting portion radially arranged radially outside the radial recess still allows for connecting the radially inward portions to each other.

[0028] According to an embodiment, the third radially inward portion is configured to provide a contact area for one of the first flange portion and the second flange portion between adjacent fastening elements. The third radially inward portion can provide a contact area in a space where no fastening element is arranged. This allows maximizing the contact area of ​​the gasket with the flange portion, thereby reducing the stress around the through hole of the first radially inward portion and the second radially inward portion, particularly in the case where one of the auxiliary component and the housing component is broken at a fastening element connection. The third radially inward portion can preferably be arranged between adjacent fastening elements and spaced apart from adjacent fastening elements.

[0029] According to an embodiment, the third radially inward portion is arranged circumferentially between the first radially inward portion and the second radially inward portion.The third radially inward portion may provide additional contact area in a space not or cannot be occupied by the first radially inward portion or the second radially inward portion.

[0030] In an exemplary embodiment, the third radially inward portion does not contain a hole.The third radially inward portion may provide additional contact area in segments that do not include fastening elements.

[0031] The gasket may also have more than two radially inward portions containing through holes, for example three or four (fourth, sixth radially inward portions, etc.). In this case, additional intermediate (fifth, seventh, etc.) radially inward portions may be arranged between each pair of adjacent radially inward portions containing through holes.

[0032] According to an embodiment, the gasket is substantially flat. Therefore, all parts of the gasket can be flat, including the first radially inward portion, the second radially inward portion, the third radially inward portion and the connecting portion. Each of the first radially inward portion, the second radially inward portion, the third radially inward portion and the connecting portion can be located in a common plane. Making the gasket flat facilitates assembly of the flange portion. Preferably, the gasket can be made of a sheet material.

[0033] According to another embodiment, the gasket may not be flat. The first radially inward portion, the second radially inward portion and the third radially inward portion may be arranged in a common plane. The connecting portion may define a connecting plane. The connecting plane may be arranged at an angle relative to the common plane. For example, the angle between the common plane and the connecting plane may be between 80° and 120°. Preferably, the common plane is substantially perpendicular to the connecting plane. The connecting portion may be substantially flat, in particular except for the curved section that contacts the first radially inward portion, the second radially inward portion and the third radially inward portion. The gasket may be made of a sheet material.

[0034] The connecting portion can extend substantially in the axial longitudinal direction and in particular not in the radial direction. Advantageously, the connecting portion can provide a radial barrier for the fastening element in the event of damage to the flange assembly. Thus, if one or both of the flange portions break around a fastening element, the fastening element may become loose. However, the connecting portion extending in the axial longitudinal direction prevents the fastening element from sliding out of the flange assembly and in particular prevents the fastening element from sliding radially over the gasket. Thus, a broken part of the flange assembly can be contained within the flange assembly without causing damage to any other components, such as other components of the turbocharger system.

[0035] The flange assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may also include several washers as described herein. For example, the flange assembly may include 3 to 8 washers.

[0036] According to another embodiment, the flange assembly may include a second gasket that is different from the above-mentioned gasket (which may also be referred to as a first gasket or a first-type gasket).

[0037] The second (or second type) gasket may be at least partially arranged at one of the first flange portion and the second flange portion and fixed to the flange portion. The second gasket may also include a radially inward flat portion having a through hole, through which the fastening element extends. Preferably, the second gasket has a single through hole and / or no additional one or more radially inward portions. The second gasket may also include a radially outward portion arranged at an angle to the radially inward flat portion. The angle between the radially inward portion and the radially outward portion may be in the range of 80° to 120°. Preferably, the radially inward flat portion is substantially perpendicular to the radially outward portion.

[0038] The radially outward portion of the washer can extend substantially along the axial longitudinal direction. Advantageously, the radially outward portion of the second washer can provide a radial barrier for the fastening element in the event of damage to the flange assembly. Therefore, if one or both flange portions break around the fastening element clamping the second washer, the fastening element may become loose. However, the radially outward portion extending along the axial longitudinal direction prevents the fastening element from sliding out of the flange assembly, and in particular prevents the fastening element from radially sliding through the second washer. Therefore, the broken part of the flange assembly can be contained within the flange assembly without causing damage to any other components, such as other components of the turbocharger system.

[0039] The above statements regarding the arrangement of the (first) gasket within the flange assembly apply correspondingly to the second gasket (eg regarding the arrangement of the first and second flange parts and the attachment element).

[0040] Typically, the flange assembly may include several first washers and several second washers. The second washers are smaller than the first washers and can be used around the peripheral portion of the flange assembly where space is too limited to accommodate the first washers. When the flange portions are fixed to each other with fastening elements, the second washers are easy to install. The combination of the second washers and the flat first washers is particularly advantageous. Both the first washers and the second washers are easy to install and can collaborate to constrain the flange assembly when the flange assembly is damaged. Exemplarily, the flange assembly may include 2 to 4 first washers and 1 to 4 second washers.

[0041] According to an embodiment, the auxiliary component and / or the housing component, preferably the auxiliary component, comprises a plurality of pillars arranged circumferentially at the flange portion. The pillars may extend along the radially outer portion of the (first and / or second) flange portion, in particular to the radially outer end of the (first and / or second) flange portion. In other words, the radially outer end or end portion of the (first and / or second) flange portion may be interrupted by the pillars. For example, the pillars may be part of the auxiliary component, for example when the auxiliary component is a muffler. The pillars may support the housing component of the muffler. The pillars may preferably be arranged at the surface of the second flange portion facing away from the first flange portion. Exemplarily, the pillars may be arranged adjacent to the axial end portions of the fastening element and the washer.

[0042] Each of the first radially inward portion, the second radially inward portion, and the third radially inward portion of the gasket can be disposed between adjacent pairs of struts. Preferably, only one of the first radially inward portion, the second radially inward portion, and the third radially inward portion is disposed between a given pair of adjacent struts. The third inward portion can then be disposed between adjacent pairs of struts. One or more of the first radially inward portion, the second radially inward portion, and the third radially inward portion can span a large portion or a complete portion of the circumference (arc length) between adjacent struts. This allows for maximizing the contact area between the (first, second, and third) radially inward portions and the flange portion.

[0043] The struts may be unequally distributed around the circumference of the flange portion. Additionally or alternatively, the radial length and / or circumferential length of the struts may be different. The first washer is particularly advantageous for use in a portion of the flange assembly where space is not limited by the struts. Due to the small size of the second washer and the simplicity of installation, the second washer is particularly advantageous for use in a portion of the flange assembly where space is quite limited.

[0044] The connecting portion of the (first) washer may extend circumferentially beyond at least two struts. The connecting portion may include a radially inward gap for accommodating each strut. Typically, the connecting portion may extend circumferentially beyond two struts and include two radially inward gaps, wherein a strut is disposed in each radially inward gap. A section of the connecting portion may connect the first radially inward portion and the third radially inward portion and extend beyond one strut. Another section of the connecting portion may connect the third radially inward portion and the second radially inward portion and extend beyond another strut.

[0045] The connecting portion of the (first) washer may extend circumferentially radially outwards from and along the at least two struts.

[0046] The struts may be unequally distributed around the circumference of the flange portion and may have different radial lengths or arc lengths. The connecting portion may include respective segments having different arc lengths and / or different radial lengths.

[0047] According to one aspect of the present invention, a turbocharger system is provided. The turbocharger system comprises a flange assembly according to any embodiment described herein.

[0048] Another aspect of the present invention relates to the use of a gasket in a flange assembly of a turbocharger system, for constraining the turbocharger system in the event of damage to the flange assembly. The gasket includes a first radially inward portion and a second radially inward portion circumferentially spaced apart from the first radially inward portion, each of the first radially inward portion and the second radially inward portion including a through hole for receiving a fastening element passing through the through hole. The gasket also includes a third radially inward portion circumferentially spaced apart from the first radially inward portion and the second radially inward portion. The third radially inward portion is configured to provide a contact area for the flange portion of the turbocharger system. The gasket also includes a connecting portion connected to each of the first radially inward portion, the second radially inward portion, and the third radially inward portion.

[0049] The gasket may be provided according to any embodiment described in the present disclosure.Thus, the gasket may comprise any of the features described above with respect to the flange assembly.

[0050] The third radially inward portion is preferably configured to provide a contact area for a flange portion of the turbocharger system between adjacent fastening elements.

[0051] According to one aspect of the present invention, a gasket for a flange assembly in a turbocharger system is provided. The gasket includes a first radially inward portion and a second radially inward portion circumferentially spaced apart from the first radially inward portion, each of the first radially inward portion and the second radially inward portion including a through hole for receiving a fastening element passing through the through hole. The gasket also includes a third radially inward portion circumferentially spaced apart from the first radially inward portion and the second radially inward portion. The third radially inward portion is configured to provide a contact area for a flange portion of a turbocharger system. The gasket also includes a connecting portion connected to each of the first radially inward portion, the second radially inward portion, and the third radially inward portion.

[0052] The gasket may be provided according to any embodiment described in the present disclosure.Thus, the gasket may comprise any of the features described above with respect to the flange assembly.

[0053] The third radially inward portion is preferably configured to provide a contact area for a flange portion of the turbocharger system between adjacent fastening elements.

[0054] Those skilled in the art will recognize additional features and advantages upon reading the following detailed description, and upon viewing the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0055] The components in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, but rather focus on illustrating the principles of the present invention. In addition, in the drawings, the same reference numerals represent corresponding components. The drawings relate to embodiments of the present disclosure and are described below:

[0056] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of a turbocharger system and a flange assembly according to an embodiment described herein;

[0057] Figure 2a shows a schematic top view of a flange assembly according to embodiments described herein;

[0058] Figure 2b Shows Figure 2a a schematic side view of the flange assembly shown;

[0059] Figure 2c Shows Figure 2a A schematic diagram of the flange assembly along line BB is shown;

[0060] Figure 2d Shows Figure 2a A schematic diagram of the flange assembly along line AA is shown;

[0061] Figure 3 shows a schematic diagram of a gasket according to another embodiment described herein;

[0062] FIG4 a shows a schematic diagram of another gasket according to another embodiment described herein; and

[0063] FIG. 4 b shows a side view of the gasket shown in FIG. 4 a along line BB. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0064] Reference will now be made in detail to various embodiments, one or more examples of which are shown in each figure. Each example is provided by way of explanation and is not meant to be limiting. For example, a feature shown or described as part of one embodiment can be used in any other embodiment or used in combination with any other embodiment to produce another embodiment. The present disclosure is intended to include such modifications and variations.

[0065] In the following description of the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals represent the same or similar components. Usually, only the differences from the various embodiments are described. Unless otherwise stated, the description of a part or aspect in one embodiment can also be applied to the corresponding part or aspect in another embodiment.

[0066] For example, reference Figure 1 , depicts a turbocharger system 100 including a flange assembly 110 according to the present disclosure. The flange assembly 110 includes a housing component 112 of the turbocharger system 100 and an auxiliary component 111 of the turbocharger system.

[0067] Figure 1 One possible flange assembly included in the turbocharger system 100 is shown. Figure 1 In the particular example shown, the housing assembly 112 is a component of a compressor. The assembly 112 houses the impeller of the compressor. The auxiliary assembly 111 is a muffler. The muffler 111 is releasably secured to the assembly 112 of the compressor. The muffler 111 and the assembly 112 are attached to each other via a first flange portion and a second flange portion using a plurality of fastening elements. However, the muffler 111 obscures the Figure 1 View of the center flange assembly.

[0068] Figure 2a shows a schematic top view of components of a flange assembly 110 according to an embodiment described herein, and Figure 2b Shows Figure 2a For clarity, some parts of the assembly are cut away. Figure 2a In FIG. 1 , a portion of the auxiliary assembly 111 is cut away to better view the components of the flange assembly. Figure 2b In the embodiment, the top of the auxiliary component 111 and the bottom of the housing component 112 are cut away.

[0069] Figure 2a The auxiliary component 111 (housing component in Figure 2a Most of it is not visible, but in Figure 2b 1). The auxiliary component includes a second flange portion 115. The second flange portion 115 has a first side or first surface that contacts a side or surface of the first flange portion 116. The two sides form a flange joint. The second flange portion 115 also has a second side or second surface that faces away from the first flange portion 116.

[0070] The flange assembly 110 includes a plurality of pillars 114 circumferentially spaced apart from the radially outer portion of the second side of the flange portion 115. The pillars 114 may be used for different purposes and therefore may not necessarily be equally spaced or have equal arc lengths. Some pillars may not extend all the way to the radially outer end of the second side of the second flange portion 115, but may provide space at the radially outer end of the second side of the second flange portion 115.

[0071] The second flange part 115 is releasably attached to the first flange part 116 by means of a plurality of fastening elements 113. In the example shown in Fig. 2, the fastening elements 113 are a combination of studs and nuts.

[0072] The flange fitting 110 further comprises at least one (first) gasket 120 . Figure 2a The portion of the flange assembly 110 shown in FIG. 1 shows two washers 120 , but the flange assembly 110 can have more or less than two washers 120 .

[0073] Figure 3 A gasket 120 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The gasket includes a first radially inward portion 121 , a second radially inward portion 122 , a third radially inward portion 123 and a connecting portion 124 .

[0074] The first radially inward portion 121 includes a through hole 126 for receiving the fastening element 113 therein. The second radially inward portion 122 also includes a through hole 125 for receiving the fastening element 113 therein.

[0075] The third radially inward portion 123 preferably has no through hole for accommodating the fastening element 113. The third radially inward portion 123 provides a contact area for the second flange portion 115 between adjacent fastening elements 113.

[0076] Each of the first radially inward portion, the second radially inward portion, and the third radially inward portion is circumferentially spaced from each other. The first radially inward portion, the second radially inward portion, and the third radially inward portion are adjacent to each other, but do not contact each other or abut each other. Each of the first radially inward portion, the second radially inward portion, and the third radially inward portion is preferably flat and configured to contact the second side of the flange portion away from the other flange portions. The radially inward portion allows full surface contact with the second side of the flange portion.

[0077] Third radially inward portion 123 is circumferentially arranged between first radially inward portion 121 and second radially inward portion 122 .

[0078] The connecting portion 124 includes two sections, one section connecting the third radially inward portion and the second radially inward portion, and the other section connecting the first radially inward portion 121. Figure 3 In the particular example shown, the two segments each form a gap that is configured to accommodate a post. The two segments have different radial depths and form gaps of different sizes corresponding to the size of the posts 114 of the flange assembly 110. Depending on the type and size of the posts 114 of the flange assembly, the segments of the connecting portion 124 may be sized and shaped to correspond to the posts 114 of the flange assembly. Figure 3 Different than shown.

[0079] Figure 2a The illustrated gasket 120 is substantially planar and is integrally formed from a sheet of material.

[0080] Return to reference Figure 2a , a plurality of fastening elements 113 attach the second flange portion 115 to the first flange portion 116. Figure 2c As further shown, the washer 120 is clamped between the axial end portion of the fastening element 113 and the second side of the second flange portion 115. This can be achieved by inserting the fastening element 113 into the through holes 125, 126 of the first and second radially inward portions and through the opening in the second flange portion 115 and optionally the opening in the first flange portion 116. Figure 2c Shows Figure 2a Side view along line BB.

[0081] The third radially inward portion 123 contacts the second side surface of the second flange portion 116 between adjacent fastening elements 113 and between adjacent pillars 114. Therefore, the contact area between the gasket and the second flange portion is maximized.

[0082] According to an embodiment, the flange assembly 110 (eg Figure 2a and Figure 2b The second washer 130 is fixed to the second flange portion 115 by means of a fastening element 113. The second washer 130 is sandwiched between the axial end portion of the fastening element 113 and the second surface of the second flange portion 115. The second washer 130 includes a radially inward flat portion 131 having a through hole and a radially outward portion 132 arranged at an angle to the radially inward flat portion 131. The angle is about 90°. Figure 2d Shows Figure 2a Side view along line AA. Figure 2d It can be seen that the radially outward portion 132 is curved relative to the radially inward portion 131 .

[0083] The radially outward portion 132 of the second gasket 130 provides a radial barrier for the fastening element 113 in the event of damage to the flange assembly.

[0084] Figures 4a and 4b show a gasket 220 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4b is a side view of Figure 4a.

[0085] Unless otherwise noted, the gasket 220 is substantially the same as the gasket 120. The gasket 220 may also be used in the same flange assembly 110 shown in FIG2. The gasket 220 may also be combined with the second gasket 130 described above with reference to FIG2.

[0086] The washer 220 includes a first radially inward portion 221, a second radially inward portion 222, a third radially inward portion 223 and a connecting portion 224. The first radially inward portion 221 and the second radially inward portion 222 each include a through hole 225, 226 to receive the fastening element 113 therein.

[0087] The first radially inward portion 221, the second radially inward portion 222 and the third radially inward portion 223 are arranged in a common plane, and the connecting portion 224 defines a connecting plane arranged at an angle relative to the common plane. The angle is about 90°.

[0088] Therefore, in view of the above, it should be understood that, compared to the prior art, the described embodiments allow the flange assembly to be contained in the event of damage to the flange assembly. The gasket is secured by at least two fastening elements, an extended contact surface and an optional radial barrier, allowing the flange assembly to be contained in the event of one or both of the flanges being broken outside the hole (opening).

[0089] While the foregoing description is directed to embodiments, other and further embodiments may be devised without departing from the basic scope, and the scope is determined by the claims that follow.

[0090] Reference numerals

[0091] 100 Turbocharger System

[0092] 110 Flange assembly

[0093] 111 Auxiliary components

[0094] 112 Shell assembly

[0095] 113 Fastening elements

[0096] 114 Pillar

[0097] 115 Second flange portion

[0098] 116 First flange portion

[0099] 120, 220 washers

[0100] 121, 221 first radially inward portion

[0101] 122, 222 second radially inward portion

[0102] 123, 223 Third radially inward portion

[0103] 124, 224 connection part

[0104] 125, 126, 225, 226 through hole

[0105] 130 Second gasket.

Claims

1. A flange assembly (110) for a turbocharger system (100), comprising: A housing assembly (112) of the turbocharger system (100), the housing assembly having a first flange portion; as well as An auxiliary component (111) of the turbocharger system (100), the auxiliary component having a second flange portion (115); wherein the housing component (112) and the auxiliary component (111) are attached to each other via the first flange portion and the second flange portion using a plurality of fastening elements (113); A gasket (120, 220), the gasket being at least partially arranged at one of the first flange portion and the second flange portion and fixed to the flange portion, wherein the gasket is substantially arranged on the outer side of one of the first flange portion and the second flange portion, the gasket (120, 220) comprising: a first radially inward portion (121, 221) and a second radially inward portion (122, 222) circumferentially spaced from the first radially inward portion, each of the first radially inward portion and the second radially inward portion comprising a through hole (125, 126, 225, 226) through which a respective one of the fastening elements (113) extends; a third radially inward portion (123, 223) circumferentially spaced from the first and second radially inward portions (121, 122, 221, 222), wherein the third radially inward portion (123, 223) is configured to provide a contact area for one of the first and second flange portions (115); and A connecting portion (124, 224) connected to each of the first radially inward portion, the second radially inward portion, and the third radially inward portion (121, 122, 123, 221, 222, 223).

2. The flange assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The third radially inward portion (123, 223) is configured to provide a contact area for one of the first flange portion and the second flange portion (115) between adjacent fastening elements (113).

3. A flange fitting according to any preceding claim, wherein: The third radially inward portion (123, 123) is circumferentially arranged between the first radially inward portion and the second radially inward portion (121, 122, 221, 222).

4. A flange fitting according to any preceding claim, wherein: Each of the first radially inward portion (121, 221) and the second radially outward portion (122, 222) is disposed between one of the fastening elements (113) and a second flange portion (115) of the auxiliary component (111).

5. A flange fitting according to any preceding claim, wherein: The third radially inward portion (123, 223) does not contain a hole.

6. A flange fitting according to any preceding claim, wherein: The connecting portion (124, 224) is arranged radially outside the radial end portion of the flange portion (115, 116).

7. A flange fitting according to any preceding claim, wherein: The gasket (120, 220) is substantially flat and is in particular made of a sheet material.

8. A flange fitting according to any preceding claim, wherein: The first radially inward portion, the second radially inward portion and the third radially inward portion (221, 222, 223) are arranged in a common plane, and the connecting portion (224) defines a connecting plane arranged at an angle relative to the common plane, and in particular, wherein the gasket (220) is made of a plate material.

9. A flange fitting according to any preceding claim, wherein: The connecting portion (224) extends substantially in an axial longitudinal direction and / or is configured to provide a radial barrier for the fastening element (113) in the event of damage to the flange assembly.

10. A flange fitting according to any preceding claim, wherein: The housing assembly (112) is a housing assembly of a compressor of the turbocharger system (100) and accommodates a rotating assembly of the turbocharger system (100).

11. A flange fitting according to any preceding claim, wherein: The auxiliary component (111) is an intake component of the turbocharger system, preferably a muffler component, a suction branch pipe, a compensator or a supply line component for connecting the first turbocharger stage and the second turbocharger stage.

12. A flange fitting according to any preceding claim, wherein: The auxiliary component (111) is a cast aluminum intake component and / or the auxiliary component (111) and the housing component (112) have different fragility, and the gasket (120) is arranged at the more fragile flange.

13. A flange assembly according to any preceding claim, further comprising a second gasket (130) at least partially arranged at and fixed to one of the first and second flange portions, the second gasket (130) comprising a radially inwardly facing flat portion (131) having a through hole, the fastening element (113) extending through the one through hole, wherein The second gasket (130) further comprises a radially outward portion (132) arranged at an angle to the radially inward flat portion (131), and optionally, wherein the radially inward flat portion (131) is substantially perpendicular to the radially outward portion (132).

14. A flange fitting according to any preceding claim, wherein: The auxiliary component (111) has a plurality of pillars (114) circumferentially arranged at the flange portion (115); and optionally, wherein each of the first radially inward portion, the second radially inward portion and the third radially inward portion (121, 122, 123) of the gasket (120) is disposed between adjacent pillars (114).

15. Use of a gasket (120, 220) in a flange assembly (110) of a turbocharger system (100), for restraining the turbocharger system in the event of damage to the flange assembly, wherein: The gasket is configured to be arranged substantially on the outside of the flange portion of the flange assembly, optionally according to any one of the preceding claims, the gasket (120, 220), comprising: a first radially inward portion (121, 221) and a second radially inward portion (122, 222) circumferentially spaced from the first radially inward portion, each of the first radially inward portion and the second radially inward portion comprising a through hole (125, 126, 225, 226) for receiving a fastening element (113) therethrough; a third radially inward portion (123, 223) circumferentially spaced from the first and second radially inward portions (121, 122, 221, 222), wherein the third radially inward portion (123, 223) is configured to provide a contact area for a flange portion of the turbocharger system; and A connecting portion (124, 224) connected to each of the first radially inward portion, the second radially inward portion, and the third radially inward portion (121, 122, 123, 221, 222, 223).

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