Discussion on the application of sequential turbocharging technology on trawlers

Abstract

To improve the performance needs of trawlers under the varying load and speed conditions of free-running and trawling operations, this article employs sequential turbocharging technology. By fitting the experimental curves of basic turbocharging and conventional turbocharging (two turbochargers), we obtained the universal characteristic curve of sequential turbocharging. Further, the propeller characteristic curves and load characteristic curves of trawlers under free-running and trawling operations were integrated. The analysis results show that the sequential turbocharging system increases the torque of trawlers by about 20% in the low-speed range; switching to two turbochargers in free-running mode reduces fuel consumption by ∼17.5 g/Wh; switching to basic turbocharging during trawling operations decreases fuel consumption by about 13.9 g/Wh. This study is not only beneficial for the economy of ships but also provides guidance for further improvements in engine mechanics, potentially attracting the interest of readers in the main engine manufacturing field.