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).
Comparative testing of springs made from Silico Manganese and Chrome Vanadium steel, and the strength of a new clip design.
Identifier | ExFiles\Box 29\4\ Scan013 | |
Date | 3rd August 1927 | |
RHO c. to Hs.{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair} X1333 BY3/G.3.8.27. S P R I N G S. Please note that the special sets of springs made for comparison with the new clips, but with the spring plates made in different material, have been delivered at the Works, and my instructions have been sent into the Experimental Department. The springs in question are :- (1) 6 Sets made in Silico Manganese. (2) 4 Sets made in Chrome Vanadium. Both of the sets of springs in question have been fitted with the Rolls-Royce type of clip. In order to prevent confusion I wish to make it quite plain that we have two issues before us :- A/ The determination of the strength of the Rolls-Royce type of clip - this is of the utmost importance and must be given preference. R.{Sir Henry Royce} has stated that he wishes to have springs with this type of clip put on the bumper and tried out for a short and intensive test, so that we can if the clips stand up xxx free Messrs. Firths from having to depend upon Messrs.Woodheads for the special spring plates and clips which are necessary until we can pass the Rolls-Royce type of clip through as satisfactory. B/ The second matter is the question of comparing the relative resistence to fatigue effects of Silico Manganese as compared with Chrome Vanadium. This will of course mean considerably more work, and will take a fair amount of time for same to be done thoroughly. The object of the test is by definite trial to satisfy ourselves whether Chrome Vanadium steel, as produced and used, is really superior to Silico Manganese. The former is very much more expensive, but if it gives us a relatively increased life of spring it is worth the extra cost. If the difference between the two qualities of steel is merely a question of 5% or 10% in the life, then there is no object in continuing to buy Chrome Vanadium. In this connection I would like to remark that the tests in question have been instituted at my instigation. BY.{R.W. Bailey - Chief Engineer} | ||