12. Turbocharger Cleaning
Regular water cleaning of the turbine and the compressor reduces the formation of deposits
and extends the time between overhauls. Fresh water is injected into the turbocharger during
operation. Additives, solvents or salt water must not be used and the cleaning instructions in
the operation manual must be carefully followed.
Regular cleaning of the turbine is not necessary when operating on gas.
12.1 Turbine cleaning system
A dosing unit consisting of a flow meter and an adjustable throttle valve is delivered for each
installation. The dosing unit is installed in the engine room and connected to the engine with
a detachable rubber hose. The rubber hose is connected with quick couplings and the length
of the hose is normally 10 m. One dosing unit can be used for several engines.
Water supply:
Fresh water
0.3 MPa (3 bar)Min. pressure
2 MPa (20 bar)Max. pressure
80 °CMax. temperature
Fig 12-1 Turbocharger cleaning system (DAAF347567A)
Pipe connectionsSystem components
Cleaning water to turbine502##TC cleaning device5Z03
Cleaning water to compressor509##Wärtsilä control unit for 4 engines02
Scavenging air outlet to TC cleaning valve unit614##Flow meter/control (7,5 - 40 l/min)03
Flow adjustment valve, built in04
Air filter05
WaterEngine
Water consumption/wash (l)Water inlet flow rate (l/min)Turbine / compressor
16.5LP-compressor
18018LP-turbine
16.5HP-compressor
22022HP-turbine
DBAE248994 12-1
12. Turbocharger CleaningWärtsilä 31DF Product Guide