| Sideshaft Vacuum
Engine Plans
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These
are
also known by some as "Fire
Eaters" or "Flame Suckers" but
technically, they are
"Atmospheric" engines.
My unique valve mechanism
operates from an oscillating
side shaft. The engine is
shown powered by one of my
Mini Propane Burners (a
separate plans set) at the
front of the engine. You can
run yours with an alcohol lamp
if you like. A belt driven fan
provides some air cooling, it
also adds considerable
interest to the engine. There
is no ignition or carburetor
to cause problems. The engine
can operate from 200 RPM up to
3,000 RPM or more! As hot-air
engines - not stirling cycle -
they are unusual in that they
make a popping sound not
unlike an internal combustion
engine.
I built this engine 25 years
ago. It is easy to build, but
it is small and has some small
parts in it. For a larger more
refined "atmospheric" engine,
see the "4-in-1" Vacuum Engine
below.
The plans set consists of 4
sheets of drawings and 1 sheet
of construction and assembly
notes.
Specifications:
Flywheel Diameter: 2-3/8",
Cylinder Bore: .610", Piston
Stroke: 7/8", Overall Length:
4-1/2" Experience
Level: 1
Materials
Set: (1)
Graphite rod to make
piston, (2) 3/16" ID x
3/8" OD x 1/8" thick
precision ball
bearings. Materials
set sold separately.
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"Thanks for
the great tips on
your web site. I
have ordered plans
from you in the
past, great quality,
prices more than
reasonable. Keep up
the good work."
- Mike Nay
(West Valley City,
Utah)
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