V. E. Welch wrote:

What is the failure mode for a turbocharger?  In other words if it should
fail will the engine continue to receive ram air (just without the boost)?
I am wondering if I should make provisions for an alternate air source and a
method to manually open the wastegate in the event of a turbo failure.

Vince

My guess is the common failure is the bearings go out when
people don't let them cool down by idling the engine for
awhile. If the bearings go out in the air the engine has to
suck air through the compressor with a loss in power.
Perhaps a valve bypassing the intake would also be a wise idea.
Some turbo's have water cooled bearings which are a good idea.
If I was doing it I would bust my buns to get water cooled
bearings as a turbo on a rotary is going to naturally run hotter.

Other's have ceramic ball bearings. Check with Turbonetics on the
status of those.

Another failure mode is melting the turbine. That could cause real
problems. Get the Inconel turbine to be safe.

Paul Lamar
 
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