Class 4 (4th Engineer) MEKM 📅 Oct 2024

Exam Question

With reference to turbochargers:

(a) Explain the term surging, stating how it occurs, its effect on the turbocharger and how it can be avoided (8)

(b) Describe the procedures for cleaning EACH of the following and explain the precautions which should be taken: (8)

(i) Suction air

(ii) Turbine blades and nozzle ring

Reference Answer

### (a) Explanation of Turbocharger Surging
**Surging** in a turbocharger refers to an unstable aerodynamic operating condition of the compressor, characterized by an oscillating or intermittent flow reversal through the compressor. It is a critical phenomenon that can severely damage the turbocharger and compromise engine operation.
**How it Occurs:**
Surging occurs when the volume of air flowing through the compressor becomes insufficient for the pressure ratio it is trying to maintain. This typically happens when the engine demand for air is very low, or when there is a restriction downstream of the compressor. The sequence of events is as follows:

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