1917 Gnome
The Gnome, first successful rotary aero engine, was invented by Laurent and Giles Seguin in 1907-08. The rotary engine's crankcase, cylinders, and propeller all spin while the crankshaft is stationary, whereas the conventional radial engine's cylinders are fixed and the propeller and crankshaft turn. Gnomes powered many early aircraft and were synonymous with WW I Nieuports.
Specifications: Type N Monosoupape; nine-cylinder, air-cooled rotary; bore 115 mm., stroke 170 mm., displacement 15.9 liters, 160 hp. at 1350 rpm., weight 132 kg.
Accession no. 1992P05
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