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).
Statement from an Experimental Engineer regarding the trial runs of the 'Miss England II' boat and its R-Type engines.
Identifier | ExFiles\Box 174\5\ img106 | |
Date | 13th June 1930 guessed | |
JAMES EDWIN ELLOR of 149 Burton Road, Derby, Experimental Engineer with Rolls Royce Ltd. will say:- On the 2nd June 1930 I went up to Windermere in the capacity of Advisory Engineer with the object of supervising the satisfactory working of the engines and various systems connected therewith on Miss England II and also for the purpose of making any adjustments which might be considered necessary as a result of experience gained during the trial runs. I undertook these duties on the instructions of my Employers and with the approval of Sir Henry Segrave. The engines and the whole of the various systems had been installed by Messrs. Saunders and Rowe, the Contractors for the construction of the Boat. The Boat was fitted with two Rolls Royce Engines each of 1800 horse power. They were of the type known as the R Type which met with such success in the Schneider Trophy. The work on the engines and various systems was completed on the morning of the 5th June 1930 and Sir Henry Segrave decided to make a first test. Prior to the launching of the Boat each engine was started up and ran entirely satisfactorily. After this first test certain modifications were made to the water circulating system and clutch withdrawal gear. A further trial run was made on the morning of the 10th June. Prior to this test I personally examined the engines and various systems and satisfied myself that everthing was in order. Only a short run was made at a speed which did not allow the Boat to get over the hump on to the step. A subsequent inspection showed that one propeller blade was deformed but the engines and machinery were quite in order. A new propeller was fitted and a further trial was made in the 1. | ||