Wankel Rotary Engine: A History by John B. Hege

Conceived in the 1930s, simplified and successfully tested in the 1950s, the darling of the self-propelled industry in the early 1970s, then all but toss before resurging for a brilliant run as a superior powerplant for Mazda, the Wankel circuit engine has long been an object of fascination and more than a little mystery. A remarkably simple design (yet understood by few), it boasts compact size, light weight and nearly vibration-free operation. In the 1960s, German unionise Felix Wankels invention was beginning to look like a revolution in the making.Though still in need of refinement, it held much promise as a smooth and powerful engine that could fit in small spaces than piston engines of similar output. Auto makers lined up for licensing rights to build their cause Wankels, and for a time analysts predicted that much of the industry would convert to rotary power. This despatch and well-illustrated account traces the full history of the engine and its use in variant cars, motorcycles, snowmobiles and other applications.It clearly explains the working of the engine and the technical challenges it presentedthe difficulty of calculating effective and durable seals, early emissions troubles, high fuel consumption, and others. The work make by several companies to overcome these problems is described in detail, as are the economic and political troubles that nearly killed the rotary in the 1970s, and the prospects for future rotary -powered vehicles. Personal Review Wankel Rotary Engine A History by John B.Hege Wankel Rotary Engine A History A captivating read not just for crankheads but anyone interested in how things wee done and how so very often they dont get done at all. Of particular interest is the chapter on G. Ms entry into the wonderful world of Wankel maybe a small insight as to why theyre 2 today. A hearty thank you to John Hege for a well researched book. Get in touch with me John and Ill send you a copy of my book.