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).
Engine and transmission trials detailing issues with overheating, oil leaks, and jammed clutches, along with subsequent modifications.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 174\5\ img210 | |
| Date | 5th June 1930 guessed | |
| -2- Final inspection of engines and transmission gear, which were found to be in order. Engines started perfectly and ran very satisfactorily. After approximately 3½ min. underway, it was noticed that the outlet water temperatures attained 100°C, and that the scoops were not circulating water to the engine pumps at the forward speeds attained. The engines were closed down according to the agreed plan and towed back to the slipway. The max: engine speed on this trip was Starboard 1200 r.p.m. Port 1200 r.p.m. An examination shewed all the systems in order with the exception of oil leaks in scavenger pipe line joints, which accounted for the accumulation of oil on the surface of the oily water in the bottom of the boat, which had collected there as a result of the previous evenings water system tests. The water system was pressure tight, but it was decided to adopt more positive scoops, and to separate the main engine circulation for the oil cooler and exhaust manifold water jackets. During this first run, which started with the clutches jammed, the port side freed itself and Sir Henry managed to engage the dogs. The other, however, remained jammed. At this stage, the clutches and top shafts were sent to Derby for examination and were returned after making a slight modification to the clearance of the withdrawal mechanism of the two clutches, as this was found to be the cause of the jamming in the first instance. Top driving shafts were found to be slightly out and trued up. In the meantime, a new scoop system had been installed. After re-assembly and inspection of the machinery, which appeared to be in good order, a second trial was made on Tuesday morning June 10th, with No.2 Steel propeller fitted, 15" dia. 13" pitch. A short run was made without the boat getting over the hump on to the step. Engine r.p.m. Port 2200, Starboard 2200. An inspection afterwards shewed one propeller blade deformed, otherwise engines and machinery in order. The records shewed the new scoop system to be operating satisfactorily. Contd: | ||