Pennsylvania
To use author Bert Hines’ own words, he has researched,
collected, edited, and rewritten the material for his
information-packed booklet, ‘The Bessemer Engines.’ He says
that it may be the most complete collection on the Bessemer engine
available to date.
The work includes a brief history of the Bessemer Engine Company
from 1833 to 1933. It contains material from ‘The First Hundred
Years,’ a publication issued by the Cooper-Bessemer Company,
Grove City, Pennsylvania in 1933.
There is a section on ‘The Wonderful Gaso-Kero Engine
Manual’ and one on ‘A Manual on the Care and Operation of
the Bessemer Gas Engine.’
There are detailed instructions for operating the Bessemer
engines, with illustrations to help in understanding the text.
We learn about the general principles of the gas system, the
importance of a good water cooling system, the purpose and details
of the ignition system, the importance of lubrication, and methods
of governing.
There is an excellent index that enables a reader to get right
to the page he wants. It includes items under various headings such
as air starting system, adjustment of bearings, cooling system,
compressors, friction clutches, and ‘trouble.’
There is a page of ‘don’ts’ including don’t lose
patience, don’t fail to strain your fuel, and don’t run the
engine without lubricating oil.
If you are curious about the Bessemer engines, read this
booklet. Hines has used good judgment in letting some information
remain in its original form. A lot of knowledge and expertise went
into the writing of early manuals.
For the more general reader the history of the Bessemer Company
is worthwhile reading as an example of our industrial heritage. For
the engineer, the technician, and the engine buff the information
about care and operation is fascinating and invaluable.
There is also a dimension sheet for Bessemer gas engines.
Hines plans a book two on the Bessemer engines, partly because,
he says, ‘there is more information that wasn’t available
for this booklet.’
Order from: Samanche Publications, Box 81, Cape
Canaveral, Florida 32902 – $5.00 per copy postage paid (U.S. and
Canada).
