A turbocharger is a vital power source for marine engines and plays a significant role in reducing exhaust gas emissions. However, a faulty turbocharger can affect the engine parts while liberating excessive soot and smoke. Ships with such disorders can have emission compliance issues. At the end of the cycle (usually after covering 150,000 miles or more), repair is not a suitable option for turbo systems. Cummins turbocharger replacement is effortless to restore your craft to operation without hassles.
In this edition of our turbocharger series guide, we delve into the aspects of replacing a defunct turbo system and possibilities for vessel owners.
Surefire Signs the Cummins Turbocharger Needs Replacement
#1. Mutilated and Loose-fitting Turbine Parts
The turbine wheel blades and the base are expensive parts. These parts are vulnerable to damage depending on the miles and hours of continuous operation. Replacing individual parts, including bearing thrust, turbine blades, shaft, and wheelbase can be costly.
Moreover, a new turbocharger offers greater efficiency than an old system with major replaced parts.
#2. Mechanical Failure in the Compressor
Compressor fouling is a critical problem in marine turbochargers. As exhaust gases pass through the compressor, the inner walls of the unit accumulate oils, debris, and other particulates. This can significantly affect the efficiency, gas flow rate, and pressure ratio within the Cummins turbo system. This means reduced power efficiency and high heat rate. Over time, the deposits and overheating cause wearing of the internal parts and lower the blade creep longevity.
#3. Loss of Engine Power
Low acceleration is a sign of loss of engine power output. Power output in turbo-powered vessels is a combined effort of the fuel combustion and energy derived from exhaust gases. When the turbo system fails to deliver, it reduces the acceleration. The loss of acceleration in a marine turbocharger is rooted in bearing damage and misalignment. A misaligned bearing prompts imbalance and wobbling in the rotor, finally affecting the acceleration rate.
#4. Excessive Emission from the Exhaust
The prime function of the turbocharger is to regulate exhaust gases and derive power from these gases. When the turbo system fails, it causes the exhaust system to liberate excessive smoke and soot. This can damage the engine apart from rousing health risks for people on the deck.
Excessive smoke can compromise the vessel’s compliance with marine emission standards.
#5. Ear-splitting Noise in Cummins Turbo System
The loud sound followed by heavy vibration in the turbocharger results from bearing-rotor misalignment, worn-out turbine wheel, and faulty compressor. Check for the sounds around the engine bay. This is an early sign that it is time for an overhaul. But, when other options do not seem economical, replacement is the hassle-free alternative.
#6. Diminishing Oil Economy
As the turbocharger nears the end of life, the system consumes excessive fuel to regulate the operations. Moreover, the worn-out parts cause leaking, creating a channel for the fuel into the exhaust system. Oil deposits and grease in the exhaust lead to oil wastage and potential damage to the engine parts.
#7. Reduced Fuel Efficiency
Poorly performing turbochargers induce the engine to function solely on fuel oils. It means the engine will burn more fuel to empower the propelling system.
Upgrading to Cummins Turbo Technologies – What it Means for Your Vessel
Configuring your vessel to Cummins Turbocharger is a worthy solution if your vessel is running on Cummins engines. The brand has a massive product line of turbochargers uniquely designed for specific engines (based on power output and other specifications).
Choosing the right turbocharger for the engine ensures accurate and continued power supply, emission management, fuel efficiency, prolonged equipment lifecycle, safety, and reliability. Consult a marine engineer to find the best suit for your engine room.
Contact Alfa Marine Spare Parts if you need OEM spare parts and full-module turbochargers from renowned brands. We assure affordable prices, comprehensive warranty, and worldwide shipping.
