Turbocharging of an agricultural tractor engine

Journal of Agricultural Engineering Research

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A medium power agricultural tractor was monitored for performance output after 1675 h of work. After servicing the engine, a further set of measurements was obtained. A turbocharger was then retrofitted and the performance output compared with the naturally aspirated version. Significant increases in p.t.o. torque and power output resulted but exhaust temperatures and bulk oil temperatures were reduced, possibly due to improved combustion of the diesel fuel.

Maximum exhaust temperatures and turbocharger housing temperatures were experienced during engine shutdown when lubricating oil passing through the turbocharger was at times subjected to temperatures approaching the oil breakdown limit. The effects of idling the engine for periods of 20, 40, 60 and 80 s before shutdown were monitored. Idling for at least 1 min before shutdown significantly reduced the maximum temperatures experienced, therefore justifying recommended practices.