This somewhat unique artifact is an air-cooled, two-stroke cycle rotary aircraft engine designed and built by Paul Daniel of the Daniel Engine Company of Bound Brook, New Jersey during 1918.
Most rotary engines utilize the four-stroke design concept; and generally have an odd number of cylinders to gain a relatively smooth, vibration free operation through an even piston firing order. However, two stroke engines, with twice the number of power strokes as a four-stroke engine, can effectively use an even number of cylinders.
According to the donor, the last and possibly principal use of this engine was as a “technical step for classroom study” in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at New York University.
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 1918
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
PROPULSION-Reciprocating & Rotary
Manufacturer
Daniel Engine Company, Bound Brook, New Jersey
Designer
Paul Daniel
Physical Description
Type: Rotary, 6 cylinders, two-stroke, air-cooled
Power rating: Not available
Displacement: Not available
Bore and Stroke: Not available
Weight: About 114 kg (250 lb)
Dimensions
Length 92.7 cm (36.5 in.), Diameter 87.6 cm (34.5 in.)
Materials
HAZMAT: Cadmium Plating, Magnesium
Steel
Copper Alloy
Plastic
Paint
Ceramic
Inventory Number
A19560076000
Credit Line
Gift of Admiral Luis de Flores
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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