Owen Developments launch a unique turbocharger speed sensor

Knowing accurately the speed that turbine blades are rotating within a turbocharger is imperative for the longevity and performance of the unit. Running the turbine too fast and damage will result, requiring an expensive replacement. Running the turbine too slowly and optimum engine performance is not achieved.

To date speed sensors have operated using a magnetised sensor system that degenerates after a period of time and becomes inaccurate.

Turbocharger specialists Owen Developments from Oxfordshire have joined forces with Oxford RF Sensors to launch the first generation of radio frequency turbocharger speed sensors. These initial units will meet the requirements of specialist turbocharger companies, engine designers and motorsport teams. It will allow engineers, using a laptop computer or data logger, to monitor the performance of turbochargers within the tolerances set by the manufacturer. Retail price; £599 plus VAT.

A simplified version will be launched later this year where car enthusiasts will be able to use the new digital speed sensor linked to an analogue tachometer gauge.

Brian Owen, Managing Director said, "The rotational speed of the turbocharger when sizing turbine and compressor wheel combinations is a major factor. The most efficient and reliable turbochargers will be those which stay within the manufacturers’ limits."

"The new sensor was developed and patented by Oxford University and it is a real technology breakthrough and can be used to monitor current or future turbocharger speeds. Unlike any other sensor made for this purpose it uses a miniature probe that emits a high frequency electromagnetic field. This detects the passing of each blade on the impellor. It does not matter whether the blades are made of aluminium, titanium, magnesium or inconel."

"When the blades pass the sensor the energy drain from the probe is converted to a digital pulse or signal which is fed to a computer display or data logger. These digital pulses are used, in conjunction with the engine’s ECU, to regulate the impellor speed to the optimum setting," he added.