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.
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 1927
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
PROPULSION-Reciprocating & Rotary
Manufacturer
Fairchild Engine and Airplane Corporation
Physical Description
Type: Radial, 4 cylinders, air cooled
Power rating: 89.5 kW (120 hp) at 960 rpm
Displacement: 7.3 L (447 cu in)
Bore and Stroke: 144 mm (5.6 in.) x 114 mm (4.5 in.)
Weight: 163 kg (360 lb)
Dimensions
Storage (Rehoused on metal pallet and stand): 137.2 × 121.9 × 149.9cm, 337.9kg (4 ft. 6 in. × 4 ft. × 4 ft. 11 in., 745lb.)
Materials
Steel
Magnesium Alloy
Copper Alloy
Aluminum
Plastic
Rubber
Phenolic Resin
Paint
Cadmium Plating
Inventory Number
A19731576000
Credit Line
Transferred from the U.S. Navy, Naval Supply Center, Cheatham Annex, Williamsburg, Virginia
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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