CNC Machining of Turbocharger Parts

CNC machining processes for turbocharger parts

Turning: Initial shaping and forming of concentric features are done on CNC turning centers. Ceramic inserts are often used to minimize work hardening of the material.

5-Axis CNC Machining: This is used for complex aerodynamic features like blade contours and hub geometries. It allows for the creation of intricate shapes with high precision in a single clamping, often achieving tolerances within ±0.01mm

Drilling: High-precision holes for cooling and oil flow are created using CNC drilling, sometimes employing peck drilling cycles and through-coolant drills to manage tool wear in tough materials.

Grinding: Critical surfaces, such as sealing surfaces and journal bearing diameters, are finished with CNC grinding to achieve very fine surface finishes (e.g.,Ra≤0.4 μm) for optimal performance at high speeds.

Heat Treatment: Processes like heat treatment are performed before or after machining to improve material properties. Some turbocharger components undergo heat treatment in specialized furnaces.