Lawrance Aero Engine Company was an American aircraft engine manufacturer. Founded by engine pioneer Charles Lawrance, it designed one of the first successful air-cooled radial engines. It existed for only 5 years, being acquired by Wright Aeronautical, a much larger company better able to mass-produce Lawrance's radial engines.
 | |
| Founded | 1917 |
|---|---|
| Founder | Charles Lawrance |
| Defunct | 1923 |
| Fate | Acquired |
| Successor | Wright Aeronautical |
| Headquarters | , United States |
History
The Lawrance Aero Engine Company was founded in 1917.[2] After the end of World War I, the Lawrance engineers worked with both the Army and the Navy in developing their L-1 into a nine-cylinder radial engine, which became the 200 hp Lawrance J-1. It was the best American air-cooled engine at the time, and passed its 50-hour test in 1922.[3]
The United States Navy was very enthusiastic about air-cooled radials, but was concerned that Lawrance couldn't produce enough engines for its needs. The Navy suggested to Wright that it purchase the Lawrance company and build the J-1 itself. In May 1923, Lawrance was purchased by Wright Aeronautical, with the J-1 being further developed by Wright into the J-5, J-6, and R-795.[4]
Products
| Model name | Configuration | Power |
|---|---|---|
| Lawrance A-3 | O2 | 28 hp |
| Lawrance B | R3 | 35 to 60 hp[5] |
| Lawrance C-2 | ||
| Lawrance J-1 | R9 | 200 hp |
| Lawrance J-2 | ||
| Lawrance L-1 | R3 | 60 hp[6] |
| Lawrance L-2 | R3 | 50 hp[5] |
| Lawrance L-3 | R3 | 65 hp[7] |
| Lawrance L-4 | R3 | 65 hp[8] |
| Lawrance L-5 | ||
| Lawrance N-2 | 30 hp[9] | |
| Lawrance R-1 | R9 | 150 hp[5] |
References
Notes
Bibliography
- Gunston, Bill (2006). World Encyclopedia of Aero Engines, 5th Edition. Phoenix Mill, Gloucestershire, England, UK: Sutton Publishing Limited. p. 79. ISBN 0-7509-4479-X.
- Smith, Herschel (1981). Aircraft Piston Engines. McGraw-Hill Inc. ISBN 0-07-058472-9.
External links
- Wright J-5 "Whirlwind" (PDF), by Kimble D. McCutcheon, from the Aircraft Engine Historical Society