From the Rolls-Royce experimental archive: a quarter of a million communications from Rolls-Royce, 1906 to 1960's. Documents from the Sir Henry Royce Memorial Foundation (SHRMF).
Lead bronze bearings, testing procedures, and production rights.
Identifier | ExFiles\Box 173\2\ img285 | |
Date | 22th March 1934 | |
-2- Ha/EHC.1/MJ.22.3.34. Cont'd.{John DeLooze - Company Secretary} Therefore, if this action is contemplated it will be necessary to consult Mr. Stockbridge, A.C.Co. London, who hold manufacturing rights for England. It is understood here that no decision has yet been made by A.J. regarding production of lead bronze bearings. I obtained drawings of test rig which is being used for bearing tests and Mr. Rippongill said they would be prepared to test any bearings produced at Derby we cared to submit and furnish reports on same. It would be advisable to take advantage of this offer as results will be a reliable check on bearings. Intensive bearing research is now in progress. Reports will be posted to us when available. G.M. Truck Co., Pontiac, have standardized lead bronze for main and conn. bearings on all engines, lubricating system being combined low pressure and splash feed; for initial tests a thin mineral oil having 5% lard oil addition is used. Originally it was found that mineral oil caused considerable internal corrosion and scoring of pistons. The addition of lard oil not only overcame these trouble but proved more suitable lubricant for bearings. The conditions of tests on new engines with 275°F.{Mr Friese} oil inlet temperature being:- 4 hrs. light running at 1,200 RPM. 1 hr. full torque at 1,200 RPM. 1 hr. full torque at 1,500 RPM. 1 hr. full torque at 2,000 RPM. 1 hr. full torque at max. speed 2,500 RPM. Bearings do not normally operate under such high oil temperature conditions but these tests produce a beautiful ebony deposit on all bearings similar to that we have seen on Res. Conn. Rods. It is considered there is less risk of subsequent bearing failure if this surface condition is produced, in order to prevent foreign matter being circulated through lubricating system during test, oil is drained into a reservoir and thoroughly filtered. Mr. M.{Mr Moon / Mr Moore} informs me that he will not be through until March 20th. and since there are still further matters I would like to investigate, we have arranged to sail on Berengaria, which leaves New York on March 21st. and arrives Southampton March 27th. FHO. | ||