RH RH-13

Common issues

• Bearing wear (journal and thrust bearings) leading to increased axial/radial play and potential rotor contact.
• Fouling of compressor wheel and diffuser, reducing efficiency and airflow.
• Fouling or damage to turbine blades and nozzle ring, causing reduced power and increased exhaust back pressure.
• Oil leakage from bearing housing seals (labyrinth or piston ring type) into exhaust gas or compressor air streams.
• Vibration due to rotor imbalance, bearing wear, or foreign object damage (FOD).
• Exhaust gas leakage from casing joints or cracks, indicating gasket failure or thermal stress.
• Surging, often caused by engine operating conditions, compressor fouling, or incorrect matching.

Inspection checklist

• Check for external oil leaks around bearing housing, oil inlet/outlet pipes, and casing joints.
• Verify axial and radial play of the rotor shaft using a dial gauge; compare to manufacturer's limits.
• Inspect compressor wheel for fouling, erosion, foreign object damage (FOD), and rubbing marks on casing.
• Inspect turbine blades and nozzle ring (if accessible without full disassembly) for fouling, cracks, erosion, and FOD.
• Check security of all mounting bolts, pipe connections, and support brackets.
• Assess condition of air filter (if fitted) and ensure compressor inlet is clear of obstructions.
• Verify lubricating oil pressure and temperature are within specified limits during operation.
• Listen for abnormal noises (whining, grinding, rubbing) during operation.
• Check exhaust gas and charge air temperatures/pressures for deviations from normal operating parameters.
• Inspect drain lines from bearing housing for blockages or restrictions.

Service intervals

Typical wear limits

Ranges are typical for this design class. Always confirm against the manufacturer documentation for your serial number.

Critical spares

• Complete bearing cartridge assembly (journal and thrust bearings)
• Oil sealing rings / labyrinth seals (compressor and turbine side)
• Gasket set for bearing housing and casing joints
• O-rings for oil lines and inspection covers
• Lubricating oil filter elements
• Nozzle ring (if operating conditions are harsh or damage is frequent)
• Set of balancing shims (for workshop use during overhaul)

Safety

• High surface temperatures of exhaust gas casing (burn hazard).
• Extremely high rotational speeds (up to 100,000+ RPM) - risk of disintegration if rotor is damaged or unbalanced.
• Pressurized exhaust gas and charge air lines - risk of injury from leaks or sudden depressurization.
• Hot lubricating oil under pressure - risk of burns and fire.
• High noise levels during operation - hearing protection required in vicinity.

Class survey

Class surveyors typically verify the turbocharger's general condition, absence of oil/gas leaks, and security of mounting. They will review maintenance records, especially for bearing replacements and major overhauls. Performance data (boost pressure, exhaust gas temperature before/after turbine, turbocharger RPM) will be checked against design parameters. The availability of critical spare parts onboard is also a key inspection point. Any excessive vibration or abnormal noise will trigger further investigation. Overspeed trip functionality (if fitted) may be checked.

Estimated lifetime: 50,000 - 70,000 running hours for core components (rotor shaft, casings) with regular maintenance and replacement of wear parts.