CHRA stands for Center Housing and Rotating Assembly. It is a term commonly used in automotive engineering, particularly in the context of turbochargers.
A CHRA is a crucial component of a turbocharger system, which is responsible for providing compressed air to an engine for increased power output. It consists of several key elements, including the center housing (also known as a cartridge or core assembly) and the rotating assembly (comprising the turbine wheel, compressor wheel, and the shaft that connects them).
The center housing, typically made of cast iron or aluminum, serves as the main structural component of the CHRA. It houses the rotating assembly and provides protection and support to the turbocharger's internal components. The center housing also contains critical passages for oil and coolant flow, necessary for lubrication and cooling of the turbocharger.
The rotating assembly is comprised of the turbine wheel, which captures and redirects exhaust gases to spin the compressor wheel. The compressor wheel, in turn, compresses ambient air and forces it into the engine's intake system. These wheels are mounted on a shared shaft, which rotates at extremely high speeds, typically reaching tens of thousands of revolutions per minute.
Overall, the CHRA is a vital component that allows the turbocharger to operate efficiently and provide increased power to an internal combustion engine. Its design and construction contribute significantly to the performance and longevity of the turbocharger system.
