Alessandro Anzani, an Italian who originally built motorcycles in France, later developed air-cooled radial aircraft engines beginning in 1909. First produced in 1911, Anzani built early six-cylinder designs in two sizes, with the cylinders arranged in two banks of three each. In reality, these were double forms of Anzani’s original three-cylinder radial units. Historical references differ in specifying important characteristics of the two models. However, it is likely that a later model of the six-cylinder engines was rated at 59.7 kW (80 shp).

It is believed that the displayed model powered the Farman Sport, Hanroit D I, and Caproni A aircraft. Larger models of the six-cylinder radial powered the H. Fabre, Morel, Caudron, Train, Deperdussin and Colombe-Ladougne aircraft.

Further research is needed to determine the exact model of the museum’s artifact..

Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.

Object Details
Date Circa 1912 Country of Origin France Type PROPULSION-Reciprocating & Rotary Manufacturer Anzani
Physical Description Type: Reciprocating, 6 cylinders, 2 rows, radial, air-cooled Power rating: 33.6 kW (45 hp) at 1,300 rpm Displacement: 4.6 L (279 cu in.) Bore and Stroke: 90 mm (3.5 in.) x 120 mm (4.7 in.) Weight: 70 kg (154 lb) Dimensions Height 78.7 cm (31 in.), Depth 69.9 cm (27.5 in.), Width 85.1 cm (33.5 in.)
Materials Magnesium
Steel
Paint
Copper Alloy
Cork
Plastic
Inventory Number A19660156000 Credit Line Found in the collection. Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
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