Mailing List flyrotary@lancaironline.net Message #21838
From: George Lendich <lendich@optusnet.com.au>
Subject: Re: [FlyRotary] Re: sinle rotor stuff was Re: Soft Seals Sloppy slots S^4
Date: Sat, 14 May 2005 16:22:50 +1000
To: Rotary motors in aircraft <flyrotary@lancaironline.net>
Message
 
 
Rusty,
If the e-shaft is a cut down type - I would recommend you Not use it in an Aircraft, but Ok for a demonstrator or the like. Much better to use a single e-shaft made to order, using high strength steel etc.
I'm in the process of getting one made locally.
George (down under)
Have you worked -out all your requirements for the single rotor. It not as simple as it first appears, but not so complicated when it's all said and done.
 
I guess your turning down a RX7 e-shaft and filling the extra holes. 
 
Hi George,
 
I haven't pushed the single rotor project much, because I've been too busy with the RV-3.  I did just buy a complete single rotor engine off Ebay, and will peek inside soon.  I know I have to fill in at least one hole on the shaft, but otherwise it all seems usable.  Seems to be older housings, but I won't know how old until I get inside.  I'm not sure if I'll use this engine in it's entirety, or use the REW housings I already purchased.  It will probably depend on what I find inside. 
 
Cheers,
Rusty (gotta make a new intake for the RV-3 first)
 
George,
 
why do you recommend not to use a cut down e-shaft in an aircraft? Do you know what the stock shaft is made of?
I would be concerned about having the appropoiate core strength and durability.
 
Richard Sohn
N-2071U
 
Richard,
I have the same concerns as you Richard - I don't rightly now what the factory shafts are made of but once you start messing with it and removing the surface hardness in bearing areas ( as you must), the question is then how do you get it back to specifications.
There are a number of good materials to use 4140, 4340, 4317, EN 25, E26, EN 36A ( just to name a few) - some are nitrited, some are carburised. Someone suggested to me the Mazda e-shaft is flame hardened, so that may be another material again.
 
I may just get the shaft material tested and Rockwell tested to satisfy my curiosity.
George (down under) 
 
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