Improved Turbo/Superchargers for UAS/UGS Application

Florida Turbine Technologies, Inc. (FTT) proposes the design, fabrication and integrated engine testing of a turbocharger with an oil-free hydrostatic air bearing shaft support system supporting the USAF goals of improving reliability and performance of existing and future Unmanned Aerial System turbocharged internal combustion (IC) engines.FTT will modify an existing oil-lubricated commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) turbocharger, replacing the oil-lubricated bearing system with an oil-free hydrostatic air bearing system.FTT will integrate and test a modified turbocharger in an instrumented IC engine.Test data collected will demonstrate basic system characteristics over the entire operating range, raising the technology readiness level from TRL 2 to TRL 6 at the completion of Phase II.The conceptual design and feasibility analysis performed during Phase I confirmed the hydrostatic air bearingsacceptable load capacity and damping characteristics.The elimination of oil, predicted reduction in parasitic losses, precision shaft position control and virtually wear-free operation will have a positive impact on turbocharged engine performance, reliability and durability.The ability to package the turbocharger in any orientation will reduce the difficulty of integrating a turbocharged engine into UAS applications.Likewise, the technology has major implications in both government and commercial automotive, marine and aviation markets.