Fastening device for fastening turbomachinery

The fastening device addresses the challenges of load-bearing capacity and ease of installation/removal for turbomachines by using integrated interconnecting elements for secure, one-piece coupling without additional fastening means, enhancing turbomachinery stability and maintenance efficiency.

JP2026518075APending Publication Date: 2026-06-03アクセラロン スウィツァーランド リミテッド

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
アクセラロン スウィツァーランド リミテッド
Filing Date
2024-05-16
Publication Date
2026-06-03

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing fastening devices for turbomachines, such as turbocompressors, face challenges in terms of load-bearing capacity, ease of installation and removal, and the need for additional fastening means during coupling and decoupling processes.

Method used

A fastening device with integrated interconnecting elements for turbomachinery, allowing vertical and rotational coupling without additional fastening means, and a one-piece design for improved load-bearing capacity and ease of installation and removal.

Benefits of technology

Facilitates easier installation and removal of turbomachinery, particularly turbochargers, with enhanced load-bearing capacity and secure coupling, especially suitable for cartridge-concept designs.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

Smart Images

  • Figure 2026518075000001_ABST
    Figure 2026518075000001_ABST
Patent Text Reader

Abstract

The present invention relates to a fastening device (10) for fastening a turbomachinery, and more particularly a turbocharger, to a base (11). The fastening device (10) comprises at least one leg (12) that can be fastened to the base (11). The fastening device (10) also comprises a first interconnection element (13) positioned on a first side surface (10A) of the fastening device (10) to establish interconnection and rotational fixed coupling with the corresponding interconnection element (42) of the first casing (41) of the turbomachinery without the use of additional fastening means. The fastening device (10) also comprises a plurality of fastening means receiving portions (14) positioned on the first side surface (10A) for receiving fastening means (18) for fastening the first casing (41) to the fastening device (10). In addition, the fastening device (10) includes a second interconnection element (15) positioned on a second side surface (10B) of the fastening device (10) to establish an interconnection that prevents vertical movement of the second casing (31) of the turbomachinery relative to the corresponding interconnection element (32) without the use of additional fastening means. The fastening device is formed as a single piece.
Need to check novelty before this filing date? Find Prior Art

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of fastening devices for fastening turbomachines, particularly turbocompressors and the like, to a base.

Background Art

[0002] Fastening devices for attaching turbomachines, particularly turbocompressors, to a base or foundation play an extremely important role in the stability and safety of installation. Here, it is necessary to check several important technical aspects in conjunction with the fastening device.

[0003] Generally, turbomachines, such as turbocompressors, are attached to a foundation or base to ensure stability and rigidity. The foundation needs to be sufficiently strong and robust to support the weight of the turbomachine and minimize vibration. Next, a fastening device is used to firmly fix the turbomachine to the foundation.

[0004] The most common method of fastening a turbomachine to a base is the use of screws or bolts. These are inserted into screw holes or fixing means previously prepared in the foundation or base. It is important to use high-strength screws or bolts that provide the tightening torque and strength necessary to hold the turbomachine firmly.

[0005] In order to minimize the transmission of vibration and sway, elastic elements or damping elements are often used. These elements can be rubber or elastomer pads, spring elements, or special vibration dampers. They serve to isolate the turbomachine from the vibration of the foundation and create a quieter and more stable operating environment.

[0006] Regarding the installation of a turbomachine, it is important to ensure correct orientation and alignment. This guarantees optimal performance and reduces wear and damage of components. An adjustable fastening device can be used to adjust the orientation of the turbomachine and ensure that it is fixed in the correct position.

[0007] Furthermore, the fastening device must be able to withstand the resulting loads. To ensure a secure and reliable installation, dynamic loads such as vibration, shock, or thermal expansion must be considered in addition to the weight of the turbomachinery.

[0008] Fastening devices for turbomachinery known from the prior art have certain drawbacks with respect to removal and installation, and it has been found that there is room for improvement in terms of load-bearing capacity. [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0009] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a fastening device for turbomachinery that can overcome some or all of the drawbacks known from the prior art. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] To address the above objectives, a fastening device for fastening a turbomachinery and a turbomachinery are provided according to the independent claims. Further aspects, advantages and features of the present invention can be found in the dependent claims, specification and accompanying drawings.

[0011] According to one aspect of the present invention, a fastening device is provided for fastening a turbomachinery, more particularly a turbocharger, to a base. The fastening device comprises at least one leg that can be fastened to a base. Furthermore, the fastening device comprises a first interconnection element positioned on a first side surface of the fastening device for forming interconnection and rotational fixed coupling with a corresponding interconnection element of a first housing of the turbomachinery without the use of additional fastening means. The fastening device also comprises a plurality of fastening means receiving portions positioned on the first side surface for receiving fastening means for fastening the first housing to the fastening device. Furthermore, the fastening device comprises a second interconnection element positioned on a second side surface of the fastening device for forming interconnection and vertical fixed coupling with a corresponding interconnection element of a second housing of the turbomachinery without the use of additional fastening means. The fastening device is formed as a single unit.

[0012] The present invention provides an improved fastening device for fastening turbomachinery. More specifically, embodiments of the fastening device described herein enable easy installation and removal of turbomachinery, particularly turbochargers. The fastening device is designed so that, in the initial installation step, at least one housing of the turbomachinery can be securely coupled vertically to the fastening device without the use of additional fastening means. Furthermore, at least one housing of the turbomachinery can be rotatably coupled to the fastening device without the need for additional fastening means. In the removal step, even after the first housing has been removed from the fastening device, the second housing remains fixed vertically. Furthermore, the fastening device according to the embodiments described herein improves the load-bearing capacity of the fastening of the turbomachinery to the base. The fastening device described herein is particularly advantageous with respect to turbomachinery, particularly turbochargers, having a cartridge structure.

[0013] A turbomachinery is provided according to a second aspect of the present invention. The turbomachinery comprises a first housing, a second housing, and a fastening device according to one of the embodiments described herein for fastening the turbomachinery. A first interconnecting element of the fastening device forms interconnection and rotational fixed coupling with a corresponding interconnecting element of the first housing of the turbomachinery. The first housing is coupled to the fastening device by a plurality of fastening means. The plurality of fastening means engage with fastening means receiving portions located on the first side surface. A second interconnecting element forms interconnection and vertical fixed coupling with a corresponding interconnecting element of the second housing of the turbomachinery.

[0014] The present invention will be described below based on exemplary embodiments shown in the drawings, which will reveal further advantages and modifications. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0015] [Figure 1] A perspective view of a fastening device according to an embodiment described herein is shown. [Figure 2] This specification shows a fastening device according to an embodiment described herein, as well as schematic perspective cross-sectional views of the first and second housings of a turbomachinery coupled to the fastening device. [Figure 3] This specification shows schematic axial cross-sectional views of a turbomachinery according to embodiments described herein, and more specifically, of the details of a turbocharger. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0016] Various embodiments are described below, each of which shows one or more examples in each figure. Each embodiment is used for illustrative purposes only and should not be interpreted restrictively. For example, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment may be used in some other embodiment or in combination with other embodiments to obtain another embodiment. This disclosure is intended to include such modifications and variations.

[0017] In the following description of the drawings, the same reference numeral refers to the same or similar component. Generally, only the differences in individual embodiments are described. Unless otherwise specified, the description of an element or aspect in one embodiment may also relate to a corresponding element or aspect in another embodiment.

[0018] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the turbomachinery according to this disclosure, and more specifically the fastening device 10 for fastening the turbocharger to the base 11, will be described. The coordinate system shown in Figures 1 to 3 represents the vertical z, axial x, and transverse y directions, which will be referenced in this disclosure.

[0019] In one embodiment, which can be combined with other embodiments described herein, the fastening device 10 comprises at least one leg portion 12 that can be fastened to a base portion 11. Figure 1 shows an embodiment comprising two leg portions 12. The fastening device 10 further comprises a first interconnecting element 13 located on a first side surface 10A of the fastening device 10. The first interconnecting element 13 is designed to form interconnection and rotatable fixed coupling with a corresponding interconnecting element 42 of a first housing 41 of a turbomachinery. The interconnection and rotatable fixed coupling can be provided without the use of additional fastening means. The fastening device 10 also comprises a plurality of fastening means receiving portions 14 located on the first side surface 10A for receiving fastening means for fastening the first housing 41 to the fastening device 10. The fastening device 10 also comprises a second interconnecting element 15 located on a second side surface 10B of the fastening device 10. The second interconnecting element 15 is designed to form interconnection and vertical fixed coupling with a corresponding interconnecting element 32 of a second housing 31 of a turbomachinery. Interconnection and vertical fixing can be provided without the use of additional fastening means. Typically, the fastening device is formed as a single integrated component.

[0020] Accordingly, an improved fastening device for fastening turbomachinery is provided compared to the prior art. More specifically, embodiments of the fastening device described herein enable easier installation and removal of turbomachinery, particularly turbochargers. More specifically, the fastening device is designed so that, in the first installation step, when attaching the first and second housings of the turbomachinery to the fastening device, at least one housing of the turbomachinery can be vertically fixedly coupled to the fastening device without the use of additional fastening means. More specifically, the fastening device is designed so that at least one housing of the turbomachinery can be rotatably fixed to the fastening device without the use of additional fastening means. The fastening device according to the embodiments described herein further has the advantage that, during the removal process, the second housing remains vertically fixed even after the first housing has been removed from the fastening device. Furthermore, the fastening device according to the embodiments described herein enables fastening the turbomachinery to a base in an improved manner with respect to load-bearing capacity. The fastening device described herein is particularly advantageous with respect to cartridge-concept turbomachinery, particularly turbochargers.

[0021] In relation to turbomachinery, the cartridge concept refers to a design in which the core of the turbomachinery is designed as an independent unit (which can be called a cartridge). This cartridge typically comprises one or more impellers (e.g., compressor wheel and / or turbine wheel) and associated bearing configurations. In relation to turbochargers, the cartridge concept refers to a design in which the turbocharger is divided into multiple components or modules. Each module performs a specific function and can be maintained or replaced independently of the other modules.

[0022] In the cartridge concept, a turbocharger is typically divided into three main components. The turbine housing can be regarded as the first main component. The turbine housing is the part of the turbocharger that comes into contact with the high-temperature exhaust gas. The turbine housing surrounds the turbine wheel. The compressor housing, which serves to compress fresh air within the turbocharger, can be regarded as the second main component. The compressor housing surrounds the compressor wheel. The compressor housing is connected to the engine's intake system and can be replaced separately from the turbine housing. The cartridge can be regarded as the third main component. The cartridge is the actual core part of the cartridge concept. The cartridge includes one or more impellers, such as a compressor wheel and / or a turbine wheel, and a bearing unit. The cartridge can be regarded as an independent unit and can be completely removed and replaced without the need to remove the turbine or compressor, thereby facilitating the maintenance and repair of the turbocharger.

[0023] In the present disclosure, it can be understood that the "fastening device for fastening a turbomachine to a base" means a special structure that serves to firmly and stably fasten the turbomachine to a predetermined position on the base. The "base" typically refers to a stable platform or structure to which the turbomachine is fastened. Specifically, the base functions as a foundation or support on which the fastening device is installed to firmly hold the turbomachine. The base can be composed of various materials such as steel, concrete, or other stable structural materials according to the specific requirements of the application and the forces acting on the turbomachine.

[0024] The term "legs that can be fastened to the base" in a fastening device can be understood as the part of the fastening device that can be directly coupled to the base and functions as a contact surface. These legs enable the fastening device to be securely fastened to the base. The legs can take on various shapes and sizes depending on the design and requirements of the fastening device. Typically, the legs are made of a sturdy and durable material such as steel or other high-strength alloys. The legs can have flat, round, rectangular, or other suitable support surfaces to ensure good stability and firm retention on the base. Typically, the legs are equipped with fastening holes or threads to allow for easy and secure fastening to the base. Screws, bolts, or other fastening elements can be inserted through the holes or threads to permanently connect the legs to the base. The main function of the legs that can be fastened to the base is to fix the fastening device on the base and provide a solid base for turbomachinery or any other component. The legs transmit forces and loads that may occur during operation to the base, and at the same time contribute to ensuring the stability, orientation, and safety of the device. The legs that can be fastened to the base can be an integral component of the fastening device.

[0025] In the present disclosure, the "interconnecting element" can be understood to mean an element, component, or structure of a fastening device configured to establish a firm interconnect between two or more parts. The first interconnecting element 13 refers to a specific component or structure of a fastening device that serves to create an interconnect and a rotationally fixed connection with a corresponding interconnecting element 42 of the first housing 41 of a turbomachine. The specific design of the first interconnecting element 13 typically depends on the specific structure and design of the turbomachine. This first interconnecting element can be a groove, a peg, a pin, a bolt, a tongue-and-groove joint, toothing, or some other form of structural element that exhibits interference fit or complementarity with the corresponding interconnecting element 42. The technical function of the first interconnecting element 13 is to create an interconnecting joint in which the two parts, the first interconnecting element 13 and the corresponding interconnecting element 42 of the first housing 41, interact and fit together to ensure a rotationally fixed connection. A rotationally fixed connection means a connection designed such that the two joined parts do not rotate relative to each other.

[0026] The second interconnecting element 15 refers to a specific component or structure of a fastening device that serves to create an interconnect and a vertically fixed connection with a corresponding interconnecting element 32 of the second housing 31 of a turbomachine. Similar to the case of the first interconnecting element 13, the specific design of the second interconnecting element 15 typically depends on the specific structure and design of the turbomachine. This second interconnecting element can be a groove, a peg, a pin, a bolt, a tongue-and-groove, toothing, or some other form of structural element that exhibits interference fit or complementarity with the corresponding interconnecting element 32. The technical function of the second interconnecting element 15 is to create an interconnecting joint in which the two parts, the second interconnecting element 15 and the corresponding interconnecting element 32 of the second housing 31, interact and fit together to ensure a connection designed to be fixed in the vertical direction. A vertically fixed connection means a connection designed to prevent unintended movement or displacement in the vertical direction of the two joined parts.

[0027] As can be seen from Figure 1, the second side surface 10B on which the second interconnecting element 15 is located in the fastening device is the side surface facing outward from the first side surface 10A. More specifically, the first side surface 10A and the second side surface 10B are opposite sides facing each other. "Opposite sides facing each other" can be understood as sides of the fastening device that are located on opposite sides of each other and facing in opposite directions with respect to orientation and positioning.

[0028] In one embodiment, which can be combined with other embodiments described herein, the first interconnecting element 13 extends axially. For example, the first interconnecting element 13 may be a pin or a peg, and the corresponding interconnecting element 42 of the first housing 41 may be a matching pin or peg receiving portion. Alternatively, the corresponding interconnecting element 42 of the first housing 41 may be a pin or a peg, and the first interconnecting element 13 of the fastening device 10 may be a matching pin or peg receiving portion. The external shape of the pin or peg may be circular, elliptical, circular, polygonal (e.g., triangular, quadrilateral, pentagonal, etc.), or may have other suitable external geometric shapes. Correspondingly, the internal shape of the pin or peg receiving portion may be circular, elliptical, circular, polygonal (e.g., triangular, quadrilateral, pentagonal, etc.), or may have other suitable internal geometric shapes.

[0029] In one embodiment, which can be combined with other embodiments described herein, the second interconnecting element 15 extends axially in the opposite direction to the first interconnecting element 13, as illustrated in Figures 1 to 3. For example, the second interconnecting element 15 may be an axial, arched, and more specifically, partially circular projection, and the corresponding interconnecting element 32 of the second housing 31 may be an axial, arched, and more specifically, partially circular groove. Alternatively, the corresponding interconnecting element 32 of the second housing 31 may be an axial, arched, and more specifically, partially circular projection, and the second interconnecting element 15 may be an axial, arched, and more specifically, partially circular groove. As can be seen from Figures 1 and 2, the arched, and more specifically, partially circular design refers to an arched or partially circular curvature around the axial x-axis.

[0030] Although only the first interconnecting element 13 and the second interconnecting element 15 are shown in the drawings, it is noted that in other embodiments, it is also possible to provide two or more first interconnecting elements and / or two or more second interconnecting elements. Accordingly, it is also possible to provide two or more corresponding interconnecting elements 42 on the first housing 41 and / or two or more corresponding interconnecting elements 32 on the second housing 31.

[0031] In one embodiment, which can be combined with other embodiments described herein, a plurality of fastening means receiving portions 14 are arranged in an arc-shaped, more specifically, partially circular configuration on the first side surface 10A of the fastening device 10. In other words, the fastening means receiving portions 14 can be arranged along a hypothetical arc, more specifically, a hypothetical circular segment. As illustrated in Figure 1, the fastening means receiving portions typically extend along the axial x. Figure 2 shows a schematic perspective cross-sectional view of the fastening device 10 coupled to the first housing 41 and the second housing 31. Figure 2 also illustrates fastening means 18 for fastening the first housing 41 to the fastening device 10.

[0032] In this specification, “fastening means receiving section” can be understood to mean a specific element or structure that serves to receive or fasten a screw, bolt, rivet, or other fastening element. A fastening means receiving section is typically an integral part of a fastening device.

[0033] In one embodiment, which can be combined with other embodiments described herein, the plurality of fastening means receiving portions 14 are arranged on one or more protruding elements 16. As illustrated in Figure 1, the plurality of protruding elements 16 typically extend in the axial direction x. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, there are two or more protruding elements 16, each having at least one fastening means receiving portion 14, and more specifically two fastening means receiving portions 14.

[0034] In one embodiment, which can be combined with other embodiments described herein, the first interconnection element 13 is positioned centrally among a plurality of fastening means receiving portions 14, as illustrated in Figure 1.

[0035] One-piece design of a fastening device can be understood as meaning that the fastening device is manufactured as a single, undivided part or component. This means that the fastening device does not contain separate parts or elements that need to be joined together. One-piece fastening devices are manufactured as a single piece by casting, molding, or machining from a single material. No additional joining, welding seams, or assembly steps are required to manufacture the fastening device. The advantages of one-piece fastening devices lie in their simplicity and high structural integrity. Because there are no joining points or intermediate elements, the risk of weak points or failures in the fastening device is reduced. Advantageously, this can lead to higher strength, reliability, and durability.

[0036] In one embodiment, which can be combined with other embodiments described herein, the first housing 41 is a bearing housing. “Bearing housing of a turbomachine” can be understood to mean a housing of a turbomachine that serves to house and protect the bearings for the rotor and shaft of the turbomachine. Turbomachines, such as turbochargers, typically have various rotating parts mounted on bearings to enable low-friction and reliable rotation.

[0037] In one embodiment, which can be combined with other embodiments described herein, the second housing 31 is a turbine housing. The term "turbine housing" can be understood to mean a housing of a turbomachinery that surrounds and protects turbine components such as the rotor and guide vanes.

[0038] The turbomachine 50 according to this disclosure will be described with reference to Figure 3. In one embodiment, which can be combined with other embodiments described herein, the turbomachine comprises a first housing 41, a second housing 31, and a fastening device 10 according to one of the embodiments described herein for fastening the turbomachine 50. A first interconnecting element 13 of the fastening device 10 forms interconnection and rotational fixed coupling with the corresponding interconnecting element 42 of the first housing 41 of the turbomachine 50. The first housing 41 is coupled to the fastening device 10 by a plurality of fastening means 18. The plurality of fastening means 18 engage with fastening means receiving portions 14 located on the first side surface 10A. A second interconnecting element 15 forms interconnection and vertical fixed coupling with the corresponding interconnecting element 32 of the second housing 31 of the turbomachine 50.

[0039] In one embodiment, which can be combined with other embodiments described herein, the turbomachinery is a turbocharger. The first housing 41 may be a bearing housing. The second housing 31 may be a turbine housing. Typically, the turbocharger comprises a compressor having a compressor housing 21, a turbine 30 having a turbine housing 31, and an inner bearing 40 positioned between the compressor housing 21 and the turbine housing 31 and having a bearing housing 41. For example, as illustrated in Figures 2 and 3, the compressor housing 21 may be coupled to the turbine housing 31 by at least one coupling means 17 extending through the bearing housing 41.

[0040] As will be apparent from the embodiments described herein, the present invention advantageously provides a fastening device for turbomachinery that is improved in terms of mounting / removal and load-bearing capacity. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0041] 10 Fastening device 10A First side view of the fastening device 10B Second side of the fastening device 11 Base 12 Legs 13. First interconnection element 14 Fastening means receiving part 15. Second interconnection element 16 Protruding elements 17 Coupling means 18 Fastening means 20 Compressors 21 Compressor casing 30 Turbine 31. Second housing, in detail the turbine housing 32 Corresponding interconnection elements of the second housing 40 Internal bearing 41. First housing, in detail the bearing housing 42 Corresponding interconnection elements of the first housing 50 Turbo Machinery, in detail turbocharger x-axis direction z vertical direction y horizontal direction

Claims

1. A fastening device (10) for fastening a turbo machine, more specifically a turbocharger, to a base (11), At least one leg portion (12) that can be fastened to the base portion (11), A first interconnecting element (13) is positioned on the first side surface (10A) of the fastening device (10) and, without using additional fastening means, forms interconnection and rotational fixed coupling with the corresponding interconnecting element (42) of the first housing (41) of the turbomachinery, A plurality of fastening means receiving portions (14) are arranged on the first side surface (10A) and receive fastening means (18) for fastening the first housing (41) to the fastening device (10), A second interconnection element (15) is positioned on the second side surface (10B) of the fastening device (10) and, without using additional fastening means, forms interconnection and vertical fixed connection with the corresponding interconnection element (32) of the second housing (31) of the turbomachine, Prepare, The fastening device (10) is a fastening device (10) formed as an integral part.

2. The fastening device (10) according to claim 1, wherein the first interconnecting element (13) is a pin or a peg, and the corresponding interconnecting element (42) of the first housing (41) is a matching pin receiving portion or a peg receiving portion, or vice versa.

3. The fastening device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second interconnecting element (15) is an axial, arc-shaped, and more specifically, partially circular projection, and the corresponding interconnecting element (32) of the second housing (31) is an axial, arc-shaped, and more specifically, partially circular groove, or vice versa.

4. The fastening device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the plurality of fastening means receiving portions (14) are arranged on the first side surface (10A) in an arc-shaped, more specifically, partially circular configuration.

5. The fastening device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the plurality of fastening means receiving portions (14) are arranged on one or more protruding elements (16).

6. The fastening device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first interconnecting element (13) is positioned in the center between the plurality of fastening means receiving portions (14).

7. The fastening device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first housing (41) is a bearing housing.

8. The fastening device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the second housing (31) is a turbine housing.

9. A turbomachinery (50), The first housing (41) and The second housing (31), A fastening device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 8 for fastening the turbomachinery (50), Equipped with, The first interconnecting element (13) of the fastening device (10) forms an interconnection and rotational fixed connection with the corresponding interconnecting element (42) of the first housing (41) of the turbomachinery (50). The first housing (41) is connected to the fastening device (10) by a plurality of fastening means, and the plurality of fastening means engage with a fastening means receiving portion (14) arranged on the first side surface (10A), The second connecting element (15) of the turbomachinery (50) forms an interconnection and vertical fixed connection with the corresponding interconnecting element (32) of the second housing (31) of the turbomachinery (50).

10. The turbomachinery (50) according to claim 9, wherein the turbomachinery is a turbocharger, the first housing (41) is a bearing housing, and the second housing (31) is a turbine housing.

11. The aforementioned turbocharger is The compressor (20) has a compressor housing (21), The turbine (30) having the turbine housing is provided, Displaced between the compressor housing (21) and the turbine housing (31), it includes an inner bearing (40) having a bearing housing (41), The turbomachinery (50) according to claim 10.

12. The turbomachinery (50) according to claim 11, wherein the compressor housing (21) is coupled to the turbine housing (31) by at least one coupling means (17) extending through the bearing housing (41).