Fluorescent Lighting in New 28-seater Coach
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FUORESCENT lighting is a special eature of a Bedford. coach, with a 28-seater body, which has just been put into service by Black and White Coaches, Ltd., Walthamstow, London, E.17. Built in the company's garage at Hoe Street, the body incorporates several noteworthy features and is con structed to give a lasting. anti-drum and rattle-free life.
Mr. Davis, a director of Black and White Coaches, Ltd., has worked with his electricians for several months on experiments connected with fluorescent lighting. The first set installed has cost approximately £170, but the price of further sets, including installation, will be in the region of £80 to £100.
Wiring diagrams and details of the experimental set are literally under a cover at the moment.
Lightweight Equipment
A rotary converter, weighing approximately 6 lb., is housed Older the floorboards, being connected to the standard 12-volt batteries fitted to the vehicle, Chokes and resistances are grouped on a panel mounted under the bonnet. The converter and choke panel are covered and sealed. to prevent drivers and mechanics from making unauthorized adjustment.
Three standard 2-ft. fluorescent tubes are spaced equidistantly over the centre gangway, giving an even tone of illumination throughout the interior. The tubes are 230 volt, with a total consumption of slightly ovei 12 amps. The fan-cooled converter, running at 1,000 r.p.m., cannot be heard above the engine noise while the vehicle is in motion, and only a faint whine can be detected when the engine is idling.
Among the body features are American oak sole bars, which, tapering 4 ins. from the rear to the front, carry the sloping floor. All the body bearers and pillars are flitch-plated throughout their length. and American oak is used for all 'purposes except the hoopsticks, which are of ash.
The scuttle is built up on a steel frame, with 14 S.W.G. aluminium panelhag, and the remainder of the body and
roof panelling is of 16 S.W.G. sheet aluminium.
A large luggage hoot at the rear houses the jack and spare wheel, leaving ample space for heavy baggage. An external sliding door is fitted to the coach entrance; it is light in construction and control.
'The interior of the coach is finished with polished mahogany woodwork above the waistline. Spring seating and headrolls covered in moquette and hide provide a comfortable finish for the interior.
Mr. Davis, who started in the passenger transport business in 1919 with a 26-seater open Crossley, has now built up a fleet of 20 A.E.C. 32-seater and two Bedford 28-seater coaches. Most of the bodies have been designed and built in his garage, which now maintains a staff of 61 men of all trades fully employed.