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[RobertC]

Hi everyone, a couple of questions re the Hemmens Richmond steam motor please, I would like to know the operating pressure and also which grade of steam oil should be used?
Also where instructions supplied and if so would some kind soul please scan and post them, many thanks, Rob

[DBS88]

Hi Robert
Re steam oil, a good quality compounded steam oil is used in the displacement oiler, I use 220 grade, since our engines are not operating at the high temperatures and pressures that locomotives use, where the heavier grades of oil are essential. The Richmond engine is an oscillating engine, most of which operate at a max of 45psi, however, the Hemmens engine does operate well at higher pressures without the cylinders lifting from the port faces.


Here is a link to a video of my Hemmens running on steam https://youtu.be/gnS4xlSKOjQ?si=IWmY26Isy-oGN_R-


Here is the information that Hemmens provided on the Richmond Engine,



 "The Richmond" a "V" oscillating engine is built to a high standard and specification not available from other manufacturers. It will steam at pressures of over 80 psi continuously. To achieve this performance the "Richmond" is manufactured to a high standard and design specification. The engine frame is a rigid cast bronze lost wax casting that resists deflection under load, which causes steam leakage between cylinders and the frame. This is a common fault with some fabricated frames resulting in loss of power and performance.


The stainless steel crankshaft is supported within stainless steel sealed ball roller bearings for long life and lusty performance. The centre-line of the shaft is placed in the plane of the engine bearings thus allowing the weight to be kept as low as possible within the boat and also reducing headroom requirements. The cylinders have a conventional gland nut and "O" ring seal to the piston rod and the Big Ends are hardened steel illustrating the detail given to this fine engine for long life and performance.


The engine is supplied with a displacement lubricator offline of the mains stream line to give efficient performance. A blow down valve consisting a 3/32" diameter globe valve with extended piping to overcome the "hot finger" problem is fitted below the lubricator. This can be extended to a more convenient position such as a major control box at desk level.


The instantaneous smooth and positive speed control of the engine speed from almost zero revolutions to maximum speed in forward and reverse direction is controlled by a simple vertical lever situated between then engine cylinders. This is suitable for radio control and gives the boat modeler positive full control of speed and direction when competing in club competitions.


Adding the "Richmond's" shaft driven water pump can extend steaming time. This can be purchased separately at a later date and fitted without any modifications.


The engine is supplied fully assembled and painted in a high quality stone enamelled paint that is cured in a high temperature oven at 165 degrees. Brass work is polished.


The engine is fully tested before despatch and guaranteed for quality and performance.

[RobertC]

Excellent, many thanks indeed. Your complete plant looks fantastic as well. Regards Rob

[KBIO]

Excellent comment DS88 ! 
This engine is  top notch concerning manufacturing and reliability ! Unfortunately , what I know about it : it is not longer produced and it is a shame.  This engine will last the century and more.