Describes a four-stroke cycle slow-combustion engine. An inert gas and a combustible are compressed in the cylinder, after which pure Oxygen is introduced and ignition automatically effected.
On the suction stroke of the engine gaseous or liquid fuel is admitted to the cylinder through a needle-valve. while inert gases from a reservoir are admitted through a cam-operated valve in the cylinder head. On the following stroke the mixture is compressed and is afterwards ignited by a charge of Oxygen which enters through an needle-valve.
The Oxygen serves both to ignite the combustible charge and to support the combustion. Towards the end of the working stroke and during the first part of the exhaust stroke, water is sprayed into the cylinder through a non-return valve to cool the combustion products. This valve opens into a passage communicating with an eccentric operated pump. The exhaust products are washed with water and used again in the cylinder
If preferred, inert gases only may be admitted during the suction stroke, the fuel and oxygen being admitted simultaneously during the working stroke. The engine is governed by regulating the lift of the suction valve of the eccentric operated fuel-pump and by controlling the supply of Oxygen from the reservoirs. The engine may also be operated with solid fuel.