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).
Redesign of a petrol pump to a fabric diaphragm due to cost and make-or-buy considerations.
| Identifier | WestWitteringFiles\V\March1931-September1931\ Scan158 | |
| Date | 4th May 1931 | |
| HS.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} ) FROM R.{Sir Henry Royce} & E.{Mr Elliott - Chief Engineer} Copy to SG.{Arthur F. Sidgreaves - MD} WOR.{Arthur Wormald - General Works Manager} C. to HY.{Tom Haldenby - Plant Engineer} RHO. ORIGINAL RECEIVED 5 MAY 1931 PETROL PUMP. R1/M4.5.31 87460. 85460. 82677. In consequence of the high cost of sylphon tubes we have altered our pump design to a fabric diaphragm, hoping that it will prove quite reliable for 2 or 3 years, and our design is simpler than A.{Mr Adams} C., which has a curious drag link of unnecessary complication. It is especially designed to suit P. 2. engine and will be arranged in perhaps a better position in J.{Mr Johnson W.M.} 1. and 3. For a long time I have favoured a pump instead of the autovac, which is now more complicated and costly. The pump giving a constant head and a large reserve of capacity has made the problem still simpler and more satisfactory. We will work at these designs until they are as efficient in cost/value as others, and the Works will say whether they will make or buy. If they can make at say cost to buy, plus 25%, and contribute something towards charges, say 150% on time and 20% on material, then it would be better for Derby to make. All purchased parts or materials should carry 20% of charges for buying, etc. R.{Sir Henry Royce} | ||