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Aviation History
1920
1920 - 0857.PDF
AUGUST 5, 1920 any form of fireproof tank in the fuselage, and it also has the additional advantage of being readily accessible. Each tank carries 44 gallons while a small gravity tank in the top plane holds a further 9 gallons. This is approximately sufficient for 4J hours' flight. The petrol is fed by means of wind-driven pumps from the main tanks up to the gravity tank. The excess from this tank is returned to whichever tank is being used. A flow meter shows whether the system is working correctly. Each tank is fitted with a petrol gauge which can be read from the pilot's seat. The question of accessibility and ease of replacement is one which has been carefully studied throughout the machine. The tanks are very accessible for filling. The undercarriage is worthy of special notice. It is very strongly constructed, at the same time having great shock- absorbing power. The two rear wheels are fitted with band brakes operated by a lever in the pilot's seat. These brakes greatly reduce the length of run necessary after landing. There is no danger of putting the machine on its nose as the leading wheels prevent any possibility of this. The cabin is arranged for five passengers in addition to the pilot who is raised slightly above the level of the passengers so that his head projects above the cabin roof giving him a wide field of view, but at the same time he is in direct com- munication with his passengers. The instrument board is THE LARGE The four firms which have entered machines for the com- petition in the large class are : Airco, Central Aircraft Co., situated directly in front of the pilot. In addition to the usual instruments there is a starting gear by which he can put the engine in motion without leaving his seat. The entrance to the cabin for both pilot and passengers is through a large door in the side, and it is as easy to get in and out of as a limousine car. Nine " Triplex " glass windows allow the passengers a splendid view, and ventilation is secured by a louvre which directs fresh air into a diffuser box in the cabin without draught. For heating in cold weather there is a heating box alongside the centre exhaust manifold which introduces hot fresh air into the diffuser box, and the temperature may be regulated at will by the passengers. The upholstery is carried out in grey Bedford cord which, in addition to making it comfortable, effectually damps out the noise of the engine, and conversation can be carried on without difficulty. Passengers who have flown in the war type and converted war type machines will appreciate the comfort and absence from noises and smell. If used for goods carrying, with the seats removed, over 1,000 lbs. weight can be easily carried. No ballast is needed in the machine whatever weight is carried from empty to full load, and the machine can be made to fly level at any speed by means of the tail trimming gear operated by the pilot. The touring speed of the machine is 100 to 105 m.p.h., and a maximum speed of 120 m.p.h. can be obtained. MACHINES Handley Page, and Vickers. In the large class are included machines with seating accommodation for seven or more The "Centaur 2a," two 160 h.p. Beardmore engines CBNBTH 39'- 3" AREA . . . S9S Se..fr. HBI6HT . lf-6" CAC CENTAUR 2A 2-I60M.P. Bearcfmore £n§ints. 859
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