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).
Future engine tests and ratings using 80 octane fuel for Goshawk, Griffon, Merlin, and Kestrel engines.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 27a\4\ Scan040 | |
| Date | 20th December 1932 | |
| YNG 81282 See me H/S Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} (2) c. Sg.{Arthur F. Sidgreaves - MD} Wor.{Arthur Wormald - General Works Manager} By.{R.W. Bailey - Chief Engineer} [Text Struck Through] c. EP.{G. Eric Platford - Chief Quality Engineer} Lr.{Mr Ellor} [Text Struck Through] c. Mr. Jaques. [Text Struck Through] Rg{Mr Rowledge}/Tsn.2/DM.{D. Munro}20.12.32. 80 Octane Fuel. The attached letter from the Ministry specifies future running on Goshawk, Griffon, and Merlin engines to be on 80 octane fuel. Rating tests are also called for on the standard Kestrels at 2500 R.P.M. We understand that the Ministry favour introducing the change in normal R.P.M. and the change in fuel simultaneously instead of in two stages. The IB and IIS engines are already type tested and therefore we may not be able to increase their rated powers. Investigations should be made to see if we can improve take-off HP's and boosts however, as these will improve the time of climb. The 1933 MS rating is not yet finally decided, and this we would consider making a full throttle engine, like the Buzzard. This point should be investigated, and with the increased R.P.M. we may need to go back to 5.5 supercharger gears instead of 6.9. We are asking the Ministry if we can put in hand a 1933 MS type test at increased R.P.M. on this fuel and with all the latest 1933 modifications. Engine No.1279 does not fully cover all these, such as improved .475 reduction gear and casing, and latest type connecting rods. The rating of this type test should be decided fairly soon. We should also do some tests to see if the take-off boost of +3 lbs. on 119 engine could be increased with this fuel, with a further improvement in the climb of the P.V. Hart. Rg{Mr Rowledge}/Tsn. [Signature] Att: Copy of letter. | ||