- + Strong global growth underway for DutyDrive technology
- + Environmental standards drive advanced turbo adoption
New Generation CV VNT™ Performs Extra Duty
Posted 07.26.2010
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The convergence of environmental legislation around the world is spurring the proliferation of advanced turbo technology, such as Honeywell’s VNT™ DutyDrive – previously called Double Axle VNT™ or DAVNT – in both on and-off highway environments.
First launched 10 years ago, Honeywell’s latest generation VNT™ DutyDrive turbocharger is on a rapid growth curve in medium and heavy-duty commercial vehicle sectors because of its ability to drive high pressure Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) and fuel efficiency advantages linked to improved aerodynamic efficiency.
Honeywell estimates that market penetration of VNT technology will reach close to 25% of on-highway applications in developed regions by 2015, while in the off-highway environment – covering everything from mining trucks to marine applications – tougher emissions targets will likely double demand for this advanced turbo technology in the same timeframe.
“Whether it’s EPA10, Euro6, Japan 09/10 or US Tier4, CV manufacturers are focused on increasing performance by exploiting complementary engine components and after-treatment systems that can deliver the levels of fuel efficiency and emissions control demanded by forthcoming legislation,” says Chris Holt, Business Manager of Commercial Vehicles at Honeywell Turbo Technologies.
“Whereas in the past, wastegate turbos could deliver satisfactory performance and emissions levels, manufacturers are now turning to variable nozzle turbine technology to help meet the forthcoming global environmental standards.”
VNT™ DutyDrive turbo features a Honeywell patented pressure balance system that channels exhaust gas to both sides of the turbine vanes, equalizing pressure and reducing friction and wear, while at the same time enhancing controllability. Its variable nozzle design offers optimized performance across a wide range of engine speeds and loads.
The latest innovations in second generation DutyDrive include cambered vanes and a new, more efficient turbine wheel design, which have helped to improve turbine efficiency and fuel consumption while at the same time enhancing low speed torque and maximum power capability.
“These performance improvements may typically translate into 1-2% improvement in overall engine fuel consumption across a typical CV drive cycle,” says Chris.
While Honeywell first introduced VNT™ DutyDrive in the USA, the technology has since become a turbo benchmark in Europe and Japan – with adoption now growing in emerging regions.
“This diversity of markets and applications gives Honeywell a unique insight into the global challenges and requirements of CV manufacturers…and how turbo technology can make a key contribution going forward.”
How DutyDrive Delivers
DutyDrive is valued particularly among CV manufacturers for the double advantage it brings to boosted engines utilizing Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR).
Firstly, EGR engines require relatively high boost pressure levels – and this is achieved through the variable nozzle turbine architecture, which is able to harvest large amounts of exhaust energy at low engine speeds through its moveable vane mechanism.
Secondly, an EGR engine requires exhaust manifold pressures higher than inlet manifold to ‘drive’ the EGR in the correct direction. This is typically not possible with wastegated turbocharger systems at low engine speeds…but can be delivered by DutyDrive.
The turbo technology also assists the thermal management of the engine – essential for the effective operation of after-treatments such as DPF regeneration and/or SCR (selective catalytic reduction) aftertreatment system. Together with EGR, these systems are key in helping engine manufacturers to meet stricter future emissions standards.
© 2009 Honeywell International Inc.