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Ricardo - Third Party External Report-V11a
Ricardo - Third Party External Report-V11a
Ricardo conducts technical assessment of Bowman turbogenerators in the 0.5 MW to 2.0 MW diesel engine range with positive performance benefits. Ricardo
Ricardo is a global, world-class, multi-industry consultancy for engineering, technology, project innovation and strategy. With almost a century of delivering value, Ricardo employs over 2300 professional engineers, consultants and staff. Ricardo is committed to providing outstanding value through quality engineering solutions focused on high efficiency, low emission, class-leading product innovation and robust strategic implementation. Ricardos client list includes the world's major transportation original equipment manufacturers, supply chain organizations, energy companies, financial institutions & governments. Guided by corporate values of respect, integrity, creativity & innovation and passion, Ricardo enables their customers to achieve sustainable growth and commercial success.
Chief Engineer, Ricardo The application of Bowman turbogenerator systems shows the potential for significant fuel consumption benefits in continuous power applications. For the right applications, they have the potential to provide significant fuel savings for end users, with risks to engine reliability and durability being managed providing system output level is maintained.
Dave Rawlins, Chief Engineer, Ricardo UK Limited
Bowman turbogenerator
The Assessment
During 2012 and 2013, Ricardo completed a two month simulation and experience based assessment of Bowman's turbogenerator systems. The assessment focused on diesel engine power ratings from 0.5 MW to 2.0 MW, and was based on Ricardos WAVE modelling and on data provided by Bowman Power. The study reviewed the potential impact on engines of fitting turbogenerator systems, including areas such as component thermal loading, exhaust back pressure, boost system interaction and the lubrication and cooling system. It also reviewed potential risks to engines in terms of retrofitting, durability, maintenance and packaging.
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Conclusions
In summary, the technical assessment undertaken by Ricardo showed that Bowman turbogenerators offer significant fuel saving improvements and, if system level output is maintained, the potential risks to engine reliability and longevity are minimised. Ricardo reported that the primary engine sub-system risk is the valvetrain system, with component durability being influenced by changes in exhaust conditions and may be straightforward to mitigate. For instance, in fuel saving applications, when a diesel engine is fitted with a Bowman turbogenerator the same system power output is produced, whilst running at a reduced base engine power output. This may be enough to mitigate the risk and if not changes to the valvetrain components may be required (i.e. stiffer valve springs). Ricardo also reported that the risks associated with increased exhaust temperature and pressure should be minimal. In cases where the Bowman turbogenerators are used in continuous power applications, the diesel engines generally run at a de-rated output when compared with other variants. The increase in exhaust temperature and pressure still potentially leaves the engines operating within the normal parameters of the higher rated variants of the same engines. For more information, please contact
Typical Engines