Turbocompounding Explained
The key product developed by Bowman to recover useful energy is a Turbogenerator. This uses gas turbine technology to convert thermal energy to mechanical power which in turn drives an electrical generator to produce electrical power.
Turbogenerator technology is used to extract power from the exhaust of a traditional reciprocating engine. The exhaust exists at high temperature and pressure and carries 35% of the energy in the fuel out to atmosphere. The Turbogenerator acts as a "bottoming cycle" for the engine in a similar way to that of a steam generator on Combined Cycle Gas Turbine plant (CCGT).
Three core technologies have been developed by Bowman to support the building of Turbogenerators to a world class standard:-
- Compact, simple, low cost turbo machinery.
- High speed electrical machines which are extremely efficient (98%) and small enough to couple directly to the shaft of turbo machinery.
- Software controlled power electronics to manage electrical power quality. ("Power Conditioners")
Using this technology power is boosted by up to 30% and fuel economy improved by 10 to 15%.
The electrical power generated can be used to power electrical loads or to directly drive the engine crank shaft. It represents a new way to increase product performance and expand the market for reciprocating engines, particularly where loads are moving towards being electrically driven. (This is an increasing trend in cars, trucks, tractors, buses, etc)
Bowman Power, based in Southampton U.K., have a multi disciplined team with expertise in Turbomachinery, Electromagnetics, High Power Electronics, Control Electronics & Software, System Design & Packaging, Sales and Marketing.
www.intergage.co.uk
