Turbochargerand fuel cell system
By employing a backswept turbine wheel with a specifically determined blade incline angle, the turbocharger for fuel cell systems addresses high axial thrust loads, enhancing efficiency and reducing energy consumption.
WO2025062122A1 Publication Date: 2025-03-27CUMMINS LTD
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Patent Information
- Application Number
- PCT/GB2024/052409
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2023-09-18
- Filing Date
- 2024-09-17
- Publication Date
- 2025-03-27
AI Technical Summary
Technical Problem
Existing turbochargers for fuel cell systems face challenges with high axial thrust loads due to the size difference between the compressor and turbine wheels, which can lead to inefficiencies and the need for larger, more power-intensive motor assistance.
Method used
The turbocharger design incorporates a backswept turbine wheel with a blade incline angle determined by the formula DI
Benefits of technology
The reduced axial thrust loading allows for more efficient operation of the turbocharger, reducing the energy required to maintain compressor rotational speed and improving overall system efficiency.
✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.
Abstract
There is provided a turbocharger for a fuel cell system. The turbocharger comprises: a shaft, a compressor wheel, a turbine wheel, a motor, and a gas-lubricated thrust bearing. The shaft is supported for rotation about a central axis (A). The compressor wheel is rotationally connected to the shaft. The turbine wheel is rotationally connected to the compressor via the shaft. The motor is electro-magnetically connected to the shaft for rotationally driving the shaft. The gas-lubricated thrust bearing is arranged to react a resultant axial load applied to the shaft by the compressor wheel and the turbine wheel. The turbine wheel comprises a blade defining a leading edge, the leading edge defining a blade incline angle (φ) being inclined relative to a radial direction (r) originating from the central axis (A) in a positive angular direction relative to the direction of rotation (ω) of the turbine during use.
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