Discussions on problem analysis and solutions of a micro turbine test

The performance test of the millimeter-scale turbine has many difficulties and challenges because of its inherent characteristics and its indispensable equipment. The test needs ultra-high rotational speed, compact structure, high machining accuracy, correct assembly clearance, allowable material strength, high temperature, sufficiently stable bearing, small dimensions and high accuracy measuring equipment, etc. In order to conduct the performance test of a millimeter-scale radial turbine, this paper mainly presents the problem analysis and solutions on exploratory experiment of a micro radial turbine by using the cold model. Firstly, the performance test platform was established. The test methods and test process was introduced. Then, the overall performance test was carried out and operation problems arising in the experiment was analyzed. Thirdly, the solutions for the test problems were proposed and discussed in details. After two stage tests, the maximum stabilized rotational speed of micro radial turbine has been increased to 359,900 rpm. This paper not only exhibits the specific and detailed difficulties and challenges, but also presents the solutions and other potential countermeasures or suggestions of ultra-high rotational speed experiment, which can be taken as engineering guidance and reference for other designers.