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).
Piston failure on engine 1.190.12, caused by seizing due to insufficient lubrication.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 74\3\ scan0070 | |
| Date | 31th January 1929 guessed | |
| X 868 c. to Sor for WH. EP{G. Eric Platford - Chief Quality Engineer}25/W10117. RE PISTON FAILURE ON 1.190.12. With reference to the above engine, on which I reported piston failure whilst the engine was in service, we have now received the engine at the Works, and, after examination, consider the failure is due to piston seizing, caused by insufficient lubrication. There appeared to be a general tendency for pistons on the "B" side of the engine to seize, and the piston which has failed was the worst seizure. In seizing up, the piston top has been slightly damaged, allowing the explosive gasses to blow through the crown of the piston, damaging the piston itself, and also causing the gudgeon pin end of the connecting rod to become overheated, which has resulted in the breaking of the piston, around the connecting shank between the gudgeon pin boss and the crown of the piston. I am forwarding the piston to Mr. Royce. The engine does not appear to be damaged in any other respect. The crankshaft bearings and connecting rods, etc. are all in good condition, except that there are distinct traces of aluminium powder having been deposited on these bearings, and entering parts generally. We are replacing the broken piston, also the connecting rod (leading side articulating rod). The remaining pistons are quite O.K. | ||