Turner Oil Engine in Planet Tractor
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DREV1OUSLY powered by the 1 Fowler 2 DX-unit, the Planet DXtype industrial tractor is now fitted with the Turner two-cylindered oil engine, which develops 15 b.h.p. at a governed speed of 1,500 r.p.m. The gearbox, which provides four forward speeds and a reverse, is built as a unit with the engine. Forward ratios are 7.227, 3.478, 1.71 and 1 to 1, with a 7.14 to 1 reverse.
In low gear the tractive effort is given as •2,000 lb.; the maximum haulage capacity of the tractor on level ground is stated to be 30 tons. The engine and gearbox unit and the back axle are rigidly mounted in the frame, the coupling between the gearbox and the axle being a heavy-duty flexible component.
The model which "The Commercial Motor" inspected was of the flameproof type, such as can be used with safety in ordnance works, and in other areas where a naked flame or sparking from electrical contacts might easily cause an explosion. Unusual features, therefore, are concerned with the exhaust arrangements and in sealing the electrical components.
The exhaust gases from the engine are led into a stoutly built tank at the rear. This tank contains
water which is maintained at a constant and predetermined level throughthe
agency of a chick-feed arrangement.
The gases pass into this tank and are carried to a point just below water level. Rising to the top, they then pass into a second compartment also containing water. Before final release to the atmosphere the gases have to pass through a pebble "blanket."
To avoid the possibility of water passing back up the exhaust pipe, a lightly loaded suction valve is connected to the exhaust pipe. The electric lamps, switches and battery are also completely flameproof.