New Engine Combines Diesel, Hydraulics

New Engine Combines Diesel, Hydraulics ENGINES Engines 3-4-6 The developer of an experimental hydraulic engine from the Ferris Engine Co., Guilford, Conn., predicts that it could revolutioniz~tractors by eliminating the need for crankshaft, flywheel and conventional drive train. It ties diesel-driven pistons directly to the workings of a hydraulic pump. "It combines diesel fuel and hydraulics and is geared toward tractors and heavy construction equipment which already has hydrostatic drive," says James J. Ferris, engine designer. "Instead of running a hydraulic pump with belts off the crankshaft, you build the pump directly into the engine, tying the stroke of the pumping pistons directly to the stroke of the combustion pistons. "The engine and pump are one unit with high pressure lines running to the wheels, to replace the drivetrain," explains Ferris. "The engine runs only at one speed and only when pressure is down. It operates independent from the driver, who simply opens and closes a valve to control the vehicle." Engines actually could be suspended by cables rather than mounted, because they aren't needed to drive anything. That cuts both vibration and noise, explains Ferris. Another advantage is that energy normally wasted in braking is reclaimed by "regenerative" braking. Hydraulic motors driving the wheels reverse themselves, turning into pumps when brakes are applied. You'll save on maintenance too because without a crankshaft, you can gang several smaller engines together without so many pistons tied to one crankshaft. When one breaks down, you only have to work on that one engine and not the whole system. And at times, one small engine may be all that's needed to maintain full hydraulic power. "That makes the concept attractive for city buses which stop practically every block," explains Ferris. "But the main market is agriculture be cause farmers are already familiar with hydrostatic drive and less conservative about leaving old transmissions and driveshafts behind." Ferris has patented the engine and is working on the first prototype. He expects to be on the market in two years or less. He estimates cost at "half the cost of a conventional engine and pump combination". For more details, contact: FARM SHOW Followup, James J. Ferris, Ferris Egnine Co., P.O. Box 396, Guilford, Conn. 06437 (ph 203 453-5983).

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