Axial Power Turbine Can Improve Fuel Economy

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Axial Power Turbine Can Improve Fuel Economy

Did you know that the EPA07 version of the Detroit Diesel DD15 uses an Axial Power Turbine (APT) in addition to a traditional turbocharger?

Unlike a traditional turbocharger, the APT wheel actually provides extra torque to the engine crankshaft with thermal exhaust energy as it comes out of the conventional turbocharger. The APT uses that thermal energy to drive a gearbox that transfers up to 100 lb/ft of torque at high idle through massive gear reduction. 

Understanding this system can help you diagnose an exhaust or turbocharger related symptom. And a properly-functioning APT can improve MPG by as much as 5%!

 

Sources:   Tractor-Trailer.net and Diesel Power Magazine

About the Author

James Luzbetak

James Luzbetak is an ASE Master Certified Technical Editor at Mitchell 1, responsible for the Repair-Connect.net product. He started at Mitchell 1 in 2008 and has over 10 years of experience in the automotive industry.