ABB Turbocharging has kindly provided us with the following information:
This Safety Alert is to advise you of a possible safety hazard associated with ABB turbochargers of the type A100-M radial (A130-M, A135-M, A140-M, A145-M, A150-M and A155-M).
Background information
This safety alert is issued due to an incident experienced on an A155-M turbocharger.
While the engine was operated in idling condition an unusual event led to a sudden and excessive energy increase in the exhaust system of the engine. This resulted in excessive overspeed causing the rotor to burst. The collateral damage was small and no injuries have been reported. Following the incident, ABB Turbocharging immediately set up a taskforce to investigate the particular conditions of this incident since parts of the rotor had penetrated the outer burst protection of the turbocharger. Ongoing investigations brought forward new technical findings about the burst behaviour, especially in cases where the turbocharger is forced into excessive overspeed at cold condition of components. It is currently assumed that this specific and rather rare operating condition is not covered by the known standards and guidelines. Given the circumstances of the known failure pattern, this new knowledge may have an impact on the containment safety assessment of certain turbochargers of the type A100-M radial.
Member Alert is published by The Swedish Club as a service to members. While the information is believed correct, the Club cannot assume responsibility for completeness.