The Union Gas Engine Company (later the Union Diesel Engine Company) of Oakland, California designed this aircraft engine in 1915. In 1917, it was the first to pass the U.S. government 50-hour test. Union engines were built primarily for use in lighter-than-air craft, and an engine of this type powered the trans-Atlantic trial and record flight of the U.S. Navy’s Airship C-5 in 1919.
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 1917
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
PROPULSION-Reciprocating & Rotary
Manufacturer
Union Gas Engine Company, Oakland, California
Physical Description
Type: Reciprocating, In-line, 6 cylinders, water-cooled
Power rating: 89.5 kW (120 hp) at 1,350 rpm
Displacement: 11.3 L (691 cu. in.)
Bore and Stroke: 121 mm (4.75 in) x 165 mm (6.5 in)
Weight: 220 kg (485 lb)
Dimensions
Height 103.5 cm (40.75 in.), Width 43.2 cm (17 in.), Depth 165.1 cm (65 in.)
Materials
Steel, Aluminum, Paint, Preservative coating, Rubber, Textile
Inventory Number
A19270004000
Credit Line
Transferred from the U.S. Navy Department, Washington, D.C.
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Open Access (CCO)
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