The aerodynamic design of turbochargers is described, covering radial compr
essors and turbines and also axial turbines. The paper concentrates upon th
ose aspects that are peculiar to turbocharger design, including the approac
h adopted, and highlights the importance of company-specific empirical data
. Turbochargers have to be physically adaptable to suit many different size
s of engine, with a great variety of operating duties. The need for turboch
argers to achieve the highest obtainable performance at the lowest cost whi
le maintaining durability levels comparable with the engine contributes to
the design challenges that are discussed.