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).
Letter from H.M.S. EXCELLENT detailing trial modifications to an ejection chute and a loading platform.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 175\3\ img241 | |
| Date | 25th October 1940 | |
| Copies to Rm.{William Robotham - Chief Engineer} Ev.{Ivan Evernden - coachwork} H.M.S. EXCELLENT, 3 PORTSMOUTH. No. X.250/11. 25th October, 1940. Gentlemen, With reference to your VM/NP.3/CB. dated 17th October, 1940 it is desired to make certain modifications for trial only :- (a) The new design of ejection chute, although designed to deflect the empty cases downwards, is considered to be dangerous in practice because it restricts the free passage of the empty cases and, therefore, may be productive of stoppages. Further, the extension of the lower platform of the chute restricts slightly the free movement of the gunlayer's left hand. It is proposed that the upper cover of the ejection chute should be removed and that the lower lip should be cut back ½ inch. (b) A loading platform has become necessary because the introduction of the high mounting has reduced rate of fire at low angles of elevation; this problem will be investigated by H.M.S. EXCELLENT, and no action is required from you at the present. If a platform has already been fitted in the mounting for M.A./S.B. No.16, trials will be carried out in that boat. H.N.S. Brown, Comdr. for CAPTAIN. | ||