Improved Turbochargers for Small IC Engines

During the Phase I, Baker Engineering Inc. (BEI) proposes to research the feasibility of developing an advanced micro-turbocharger that can be applied to small UAS propulsion systems in the 2-20 horsepower range. BEI will focus the research and design efforts on a micro-turbocharger to fit the 3W-28i propulsion platform (ScanEagle UAV). Incorporating a specially designed micro-turbocharger system on this 2 Hp engine would increase engine performance in areas such as takeoff power, efficiency, power at altitude, exhaust scavenging, and noise suppression. The smallest UAV propulsion system attests to be the most difficult application for a turbocharger system.A key benefit for the development of a micro-turbocharger for the 3W-28i engine is the potential to scale the system up for use in other applications under 20 hp. The Phase I study will include design, analysis, and sample part manufacturing. During a Phase II effort, BEI will incorporate data and results from the Phase I effort to develop, build and test the micro-turbocharger design. BEI will draw from previous turbocharger development expertise (OSD13-PR5) as well as hands-on knowledge of the 3W-28i engine for this new program.BEI is currently developing a larger advanced turbocharger under SBIR Phase II FA8650-16-C-2622.