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Curtiss E-4, In-line 4 Engine
It is believed this artifact is a 37 kW (50 hp) Curtiss E-4, Serial Number 1, operated at a lower than normal rotational speed. It was the first of Curtiss water-cooled engines, and the second of two engines to power the U.S. Army Signal Corps Dirigible No. 1, the first U.S. military airship. The engine drove a tubular steel shaft about 6.7 m (22 ft) long on which was mounted a wooden propeller designed by Lt. Thomas E. Selfridge.
In 1908, the Signal Corps awarded Thomas Baldwin a contract for the construction of the airship not to exceed 36.6 m (120 ft), to be completely maneuverable, and to obtain a speed of 32 km/hr (20 mph). Baldwin piloted the airship, and Glenn Curtiss was the engineer. In the official speed run, the Baldwin airship reached 31.38 km/hr (19.61 mph).
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
1908
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
PROPULSION-Reciprocating & Rotary
Manufacturer
Curtiss Aeroplane and Motor Company
Physical Description
Type: Reciprocating, 4 cylinders, water cooled, in-line type
Power rating: 14.9 kW (20 hp) at 450 rpm
Displacement: 6.44 L (393 cu in)
Bore and Stroke: 127 mm (5 in) x 127 mm (5 in)
Weight: 114 kg (250 lb)
Inventory Number
A19280012000
Credit Line
Gift of Mr. Gould Dietz
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
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