Proceedings - Institution of Mechanical Engineers (Volume 191)

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text, images, or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1849. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... PROCEEDINGS. April 23, 1851. The General Meeting of the Members was held at the house of the Institution, Newhall Street, Birmingham, on Wednesday, 23rd April, 1851, J. E. Mcconnell, Esq., Vice-President, in the Chair, in the unavoidable absence of the President. The Minutes of the last General Meeting were read by the Secretary, and confirmed. The Chairman announced that the Institution had been presented, by Mr. Peter Hollins, of Birmingham, with a copy of the bust that had been executed by him of the great engineer, Telford. The following supplementary paper by Mr. Joseph Barrans, of London, was then read: -- ON AN IMPROVED AXLE BOX FOR RAILWAY ENGINES AND CARRIAGES. The construction and object of the improved Axle Box are explained in the previous paper, read at the last meeting of the Institution; (see Report of Proceedings, January 22nd, 1851, and Engravings, Plate 23;) the improvements consisting of an End Bearing-piece, of different constructions, to suit the various circumstances of engines and carriages, which is adjusted nearly to touch the end of the axle, and to prevent end-play in the j ournal; also a Grit-shield, to prevent grit or dust getting on to the journal; and a Grease drawer, to catch the lubricating material passing over the journal, and enable it to be used over again with economy. A modification of the Axle Box for Carriages has since been constructed, to use oil instead of grease, as it is a better lubricating material, and more certain and regular in its action; the oil being always ready, and keeping up a gradual and constant supply, but the grease requires the axle to be partially heated before it is melted, and can flow on to the journal; the Grease-drawer prevents the waste that would attend the application of oil in ordin..