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Pitcairn-Brewer Model F, Radial 9 Engine, ca. 1927-1928. Creator: Pitcairn-Brewer
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Pitcairn-Brewer Model F, Radial 9 Engine, ca. 1927-1928. Creator: Pitcairn-Brewer
The Pitcairn-Brewer Model F engine was developed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, during 1927 and 1928. This engine was designed by Captain Robert W. A. Brewer and sponsored by Harold F. Pitcairn. The objective was an engine that was more reliable and lighter than existing engines, specifically, a replacement for the Curtiss OX-5 that could power Pitcairn Aircraft, Inc. and other aircraft as well. The Pitcairn-Brewer engine was tested by the U.S. Navy Aeronautical Engine Laboratory and was flight tested on a Pitcairn PA-4 Fleetwing II. While the engine was successful technically, Pitcairn could not find a manufacturer willing to produce it. The Wright Whirlwind J-5 engine was being marketed at the same time, and the Pitcairn-Brewer engine could not compete with it. This is the last remaining engine of three built
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Media ID 23871851
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Air And Space Museum Aircraft Aviation Engine Flight Nasm National Air And Space Museum Propulsion Propulsion Reciprocating Rotary Reciprocating Motion Rotary Engine Air Transport
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the Pitcairn-Brewer Model F, Radial 9 Engine, a remarkable creation from the late 1920s. Developed in Philadelphia by Captain Robert W. A. Brewer and sponsored by Harold F. Pitcairn, this engine aimed to surpass its predecessors in reliability and weight reduction. Specifically designed as a replacement for the Curtiss OX-5 engine, it was intended to power not only Pitcairn Aircraft but also other aircraft models. The U. S. Navy Aeronautical Engine Laboratory conducted rigorous tests on the Pitcairn-Brewer engine before it took flight on a Pitcairn PA-4 Fleetwing II aircraft. Technically successful, this groundbreaking innovation faced an unfortunate setback when no manufacturer expressed interest in producing it commercially. During that same period, the Wright Whirlwind J-5 engine emerged as fierce competition for the Pitcairn-Brewer model due to its marketing prowess and appeal within aviation circles. Today, this lone surviving example of three built engines serves as a testament to both ingenuity and unrealized potential within aviation history. Preserved at the National Air and Space Museum (NASM), part of Smithsonian Institution's rich collection, it stands as an educational artifact representing advancements in propulsion technology during America's vibrant twenties era. As we admire this extraordinary piece of engineering marvel through our Heritage Art lens, let us appreciate its contribution to air transport while acknowledging how circumstances can shape technological progress even beyond commercial applications
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