FLYING BY STEAM.

Ohinemuri Gazette, Volume XXVIII, Issue 3794, 16 July 1917, Page 3

FLYING BY STEAM.

Abner Doble,, who had a new steam automobile on exhibition at the 1917 New York Automobile Show, is experimenting on the power plant of this car in his Detroit factory with the aim of adapting it for use in aeroplanes. Regarding- the progress of his experiments, Mr Doble said : "I can unquestionably reduce the weight of our steam plant,, but just how much only time and much experimental work can tell. The boiler and engine will be lightened very considerably by careful adaptation of design and the use of special materials. It is probable that our electrical apparatus can be virtually eliminated* by taking advantage of the draft supplied by the propeller and the velocity of the plane. Our water supply can be greatly' reduced for aviation work and the weight of our lubricating oil supply would be negligible. The greatest advantage, however, will unquestionably lie in longer continuous service without trouble or overhauling. The life of an internal combustion motor is relatively short in air work. Another very strong point for steam is the tremendous reserve power and rapid acceleration. When in trouble a motorcar driver applies tihe brake, but an aviator relies on additional power and speed, which steam will invariably give him."