Object Details
Manufacturer
Fairchild Engine and Airplane Corporation
Physical Description
Type: Reciprocating, 4 cylinders, single row, radial, air-cooled
Power rating: 89.5 kW (120 hp) at 960 rpm
Displacement: 7.33 L (447.3 cu in.)
Bore and Stroke: 143 mm (5.625 in.) x 114 mm (4.5 in.)
Weight: 163 kg (360 lb)
Summary
In 1925 the Fairchild-Caminez Engine Corporation was formed and undertook development of a novel engine designed by Harold Caminez. A cam drive mechanism converted reciprocating motion of the pistons to rotary motion by means of rollers in the pistons operating a double-lobed cam on the main shaft. It was the first U.S. engine to be certificated without a crankshaft.
The Caminez received its type certificate in June 1928; however, by the fall of 1928, it was decided to completely abandon further development or manufacture of this engine. Although more simply constructed than a conventional radial engine, and permitting use of low-speed propellers because of its low rotational speed, the engine failed its Navy trials due excessive vibration. This was apparently caused by an inherent imbalance resulting from inaccurate machining of some parts.
One aircraft powered by the Caminez engine was the Travel Air Model 8000.
Credit Line
Transferred from the U.S. Navy
Date
Circa 1927
Inventory Number
A19710915000
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
Type
PROPULSION-Reciprocating & Rotary
Materials
Aluminum
Steel
Copper Alloy
Paint
Dimensions
Length 86.4 cm (34 in.), Width 86.4 cm (34 in.), Height 68.6 cm (27 in.) (Approximate)
Country of Origin
United States of America
See more items in
National Air and Space Museum Collection
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nasm_A19710915000