Hi,

I am planning a sidepaddle steam launch with a Stuart half-beam steam engine.  I'm adding the Graupner wheels to a Dean's V&A launch to recreate a version of what Fred Rosse has shown on YouTube.

Question is whether the flywheel that comes with the Stuart is necessary when driving 2 paddlewheels?

Thanks,
Sergio

Hi PD's......Sergio....whilst I have no experience with the 1/2 beam engine design  ...I suspect the flywheel is required for rotational functionality

We must also remember that any recipricating piston engine when running is literally a series of stop start motions and that the change of direction @ TDC & BDC needs assistance....ie., the kenetic energy of the rotating flywheel

I understand you intend to add rotational mass, but the Graupner plastic wheels will be lighter than the cast iron flywheel from the Stuart build

Other members may have differing thoughts....but keep us posted with your progress  ......Derek


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bCB3_cdRoP0

Thanks Derek, will do. And I appreciate the reply.

It will be a couple of months before I get the engine, and still trying to choose the right kit for the launch. Currently thinking of a 50" Fantail.

There was a discussion on this a while ago.... http://www.paddleducks.co.uk/smf/index.php?topic=5156.msg26899#msg26899

I'm not sure if it helps with an answer to your question though as I know nothing about steam engines!

Regards
Eddy

The post Eddy is referring to has all twin double acting engines, which will run without a fly wheel. Having four power strokes per revolution, any engine with less will need some form of weigthed momentum. A single cylinder even double acting (two power strokesper rev) can stick at TDC or BDC so is not self starting. Although the Typhoon Engine Co do have a cleaver way over this. R.G.Y.

How about the Stuart Half Beam model?  Will it start in any position?

Thanks

Hi Pd's.....Sergio...I think some reading is required

1. single cylinder engines are [generally] non self starting
2. single cylinder engines are [generally] not reversable........

Possibly reading up on the Stuart 1/2 Beam engine could offer a few tips....... ....your call .....Derek

Yes, I'm aware of that much!  But Graham makes a single cylinder with reversing gear...FYI.

Anyway, I will ask Stuart for more detail of the Half Beam.