X-Mozilla-Keys:                                                                                 

I believe that a rotary engine will not operate without seals. There has been
some theoretical work done on retracting seals or air bearing seals, but
never tested in hardware. Even these theoretical approaches required
ultra-high speeds (perhaps 20,000 rpm in a Mazda sized engine). Perhaps a
very small engine could operate without seals where ultra high rotational
speeds could be managed and very tight tolerances held with minimal thermal
and pressure deflections.

In conducting development testing on various size and configuration rotary
engines, we would sometimes encounter a condition where the apex seals stick
in their slots and do not seal against the trochoid. When this happens, the
engine loses all power very quickly. The causes can be many, usually related
to inadequate lubrication, poor finish of the rotor slots, or abnormal
combustion.

Jon Lauter
Rotary Power Marine Corporation

Rotary engine urban myth?

Jon is an ex-employee of RPI which was an outgrouth of John Deerre(sp?)
which was an outgrouth of Curtiss Wright. All doing development
on the rotary in the U.S. starting about 1965.

Rotary Power Marine now converts Mazda engines for use in boats.
http://www.rotarymarine.com

Jon, I keep checking your web site for pictures???

Paul Lamar
 
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