Radial Inflow Turbine Study

The radial inflow turbine is a primary component used both in small gas turbines and turbochargers. Better understanding of the flow processes occurring within the small passages of the machine could well result in the improved design of units. As most of the detailed aerodynamics is still ill- defined, a joint research project with the objective of improving our understanding has been instigated by Cranfield, the US Army and Turbaomach San Diego. This document gives the third report on the project. It describes the preparation of the ring stand and instrumentation for the machine. On-line data collection schemes and definitions of different parameters involved have been included. Problems faced while running the unit are identified together with solutions. The report includes preliminary test results of the turbine mapping.