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).
Page 2 of a report detailing the condition of pump components, analysing a failure, and proposing development alternatives.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 91\2\ scan0297 | |
| Date | 22th August 1937 | |
| ( 2 ) In both units the diaphragms composed of three layers G.5 material and two layers of oil silk were in excellent condition, with no sign of porosity. The contact points were in better condition than those on a standard pump would be after similar mileage with practically no wear or burning. The toggle mechanisms were both free with little side play. The suction and delivery valves were in perfect condition. The report of failure in Rm{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}/IMW{Ivan M. Waller - Head of Chateauroux}/L/JAB.17.8.37, is attributed to the inlet valves sticking, and Rm{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}/IMW{Ivan M. Waller - Head of Chateauroux} agrees that the symptoms at the time substantiate this. This can only be explained by the presence of a considerable quantity of sharp road grit (the largest piece being 1/4" long) which was found in the suction well of the pump. This could not possibly pass the filter and must have got into the system when the pipes along the frame were altered. No gum or other reason for the valves sticking open could be found. In conclusion, the condition of the pump is considerably better in all respects than that of the Nairobi car after similar mileage. We do not feel the steel rollers are yet suitable for production, bearing in mind that practically the whole mileage has been covered in dry weather and also that the wear has taken place on the pot which would be expensive to replace. We intend to develop on two lines, (1) compromising by using Phosper bronze rollers and, (2) case hardening both the armature and steel pot in conjunction with steel rollers. This second alternative may bring with it manu-facturing difficulties and increased cost. ---------- Rm{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}/JBD.{John B. Dixon - Fuel Systems} | ||