MAN B&W?s TCA set for sales release in March

MAN B&W expects to complete tests of its new TCA turbocharger range by the year end in time for a full sales release in March 2002, according to a company spokesman. A prototype model has been undergoing analysis on a test bed engine since the summer, with it achieving “better than expected” results. “We are very happy with the efficiency,” says the spokesman. The range will feature standard two-stroke models with pressure ratios up to 4.2:1 and standard four-stroke models with pressure ratios up to 4.7:1. These both feature aluminium alloy compressor wheels. The TCA range will also feature models for special applications, with titanium compressor wheels and capable of pressure ratios up to 5.2:1. MAN B&W says it has imposed a limit of 4.7:1 on aluminium alloy compressor wheels. The biggest model in the range, the TCA99, will be the largest commercially available turbocharger, replacing Mitsubishi?s MET90 model with that accolade. It will be capable of delivering air to the engine at a rate of over 60m3/sec says the company, which will suit the requirements of MAN B&W?s large two-stroke engines that until now have largely relied on Mitsubishi turbochargers.