Abstract: A monitoring system and method monitor changes in clearance distances between a sensor and a rotating component of a machine. Imbalance and/or wear in the machine is identified based on the changes in the clearance distances. The system and method optionally both measure the clearance distances and a rotating speed of the rotating component of the machine with the same sensor. In order to identify imbalance in the machine, a spectral energy of the machine can be calculated based on the changes in the clearance distances, and the imbalance in the machine can be identified based on the spectral energy. The system and method can determine a trigger speed of the machine that is associated with the wear in the machine based on the changes in the clearance distance. A remaining useful life of the machine can be estimated based on changes in the trigger speed.

Abstract: A monitoring system and method monitor changes in clearance distances between a sensor and a rotating component of a machine. Imbalance and/or wear in the machine is identified based on the changes in the clearance distances. The system and method optionally both measure the clearance distances and a rotating speed of the rotating component of the machine with the same sensor. In order to identify imbalance in the machine, a spectral energy of the machine can be calculated based on the changes in the clearance distances, and the imbalance in the machine can be identified based on the spectral energy. The system and method can determine a trigger speed of the machine that is associated with the wear in the machine based on the changes in the clearance distance. A remaining useful life of the machine can be estimated based on changes in the trigger speed.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for operating a turbocharged engine. An engine system comprises a turbocharger, a bypass path, and a turbo-compound unit. The turbocharger may include a turbine mechanically coupled to a compressor. The turbo-compound unit may include a turbine mechanically coupled to a load, such as a generator. The turbo-compound unit may be coupled in a bypass path around the turbocharger turbine. In this manner, thermodynamic energy flowing through the bypass path may be harvested to increase the engine-operating efficiency. Further, gas flow through the bypass path may be adjusted to potentially improve the transient response of the turbocharger.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for operating a turbocharged engine. An engine system comprises a turbocharger, a bypass path, and a turbo-compound unit. The turbocharger may include a turbine mechanically coupled to a compressor. The turbo-compound unit may include a turbine mechanically coupled to a load, such as a generator. The turbo-compound unit may be coupled in a bypass path around the turbocharger turbine. In this manner, thermodynamic energy flowing through the bypass path may be harvested to increase the engine-operating efficiency. Further, gas flow through the bypass path may be adjusted to potentially improve the transient response of the turbocharger.

Abstract: A system and method for monitoring at least one operating parameter indicative of an operating condition of an engine and controlling a turbocharger assist device to maintain desired operating conditions of the engine equipped with a turbocharger. In one embodiment, a controller is provided to control operation of a turbocharger assist device in an engine for generating electric power when an excess of energy exists in the exhaust of the engine to subtract work from a turbocharger drive shaft.

Abstract: Method and system for emission control of a compression ignition locomotive engine. The method includes measuring an actual power level of the engine, comparing a desired power level with the actual power level of the engine; implementing a combustion strategy based on the comparing of the desired and the actual power levels; and implementing an emission strategy based on the combustion strategy. The emission strategy is intended to attain a predetermined emission level in the exhaust from the engine.

Abstract: A technique comprising an apparatus for monitoring at least one operating parameter indicative of an operating condition of a diesel engine and controlling a turbocharger assist device to maintain desired operating conditions of the diesel engine equipped with a turbocharger.

Abstract: A diffuser (30) for a centrifugal compressor (60) having a flow slot (34) formed between the leading edge portion (36) of a diffuser vane (32) and an adjoining diffuser wall (70) for the passage of working fluid (67) over the vane from the pressure side ((40) to the suction side (42) of the vane. The portion (38) of the working fluid passing over the vane is injected into the flow boundary region (43), thereby minimizing the growth of a flow separation zone (58) along the suction side.

Abstract: Compressor wheel and techniques for manufacturing such a wheel are provided. The wheel may include a hub with a counterbore internally treated to impart residual compressive stresses for enhanced endurance to stress-induced fatigue. The surface treatment allows extending the counterbore relatively closer to a plane of typical maximum stress of the wheel. This design flexibility advantageously allows avoiding or reducing overhang of the compressor wheel, thereby improving rotor dynamics and reducing the axial length of the hub, and the overall foot print of the compressor wheel.

Abstract: An integral thrust/journal bearing assembly, e.g., useable in a turbocharger is provided. The assembly includes a journal bearing configured to operate at a first mechanical load. The assembly further includes a thrust bearing including a thrust bearing face. The thrust bearing may be configured to operate at a second mechanical load different than the first mechanical load. A fluid circuit that includes parallel branches is provided within the integral bearing assembly for delivering parallel flows of lubricating fluid to the thrust bearing face and the journal bearing.