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).
Half shaft failure caused by inaccurate machining and a below-standard finish.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 88\2\ scan0212 | |
| Date | 13th November 1936 | |
| 8260 W/S. H.{Arthur M. Hanbury - Head Complaints} from Rm{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}/Gry.{Shadwell Grylls} Rm{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}/Gry{Shadwell Grylls}9/R.13.11.36. B.189.BL. HALF SHAFT FAILURE. We have examined the broken parts of this shaft, and conclude that failure was due to inaccurate machining of an important radius at which point the finish was also below standard. We know this shaft to be highly stressed, and have taken up with the Works the necessity of a close inspection of this part. Rm{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}/Gry.{Shadwell Grylls} | ||