• Welcome to this forum . We are a worldwide group with a common interest in Birmingham and its history. While here, please follow a few simple rules. We ask that you respect other members, thank those who have helped you and please keep your contributions on-topic with the thread.

    We do hope you enjoy your visit. BHF Admin Team

Birmingham Disc Engine Company

Heartland

master brummie
Most are aware of the many steam engines made in Birmingham and South Staffordshire. But there was one that one firm that had a brief existence. Placed in Berkeley Street, the factory and foundry was placed beside an arm of the canal, but ceased production in 1845. They had constructed disc engines for steam tugs used on the Birmingham & Liverpool Junction Canal made to patents of Henry Davies.

These were innovative designs where the piston was flat disc that vibrated through the steam input and activated cranks and rods. Mr Bishopp of Birmingham improved the design with yet another patent and enabled further development. Edelstein and Williams of Birmingham had such an improved engine and Messr Rennie and Son used the Bishopp improvement to drive screw propellers in craft.
 
There were several attempts to overcome the problems associated with reciprocating engines. This one is a Rotary engine designed and built by Jonah and George Davies of Tipton.

Jonah and George Davies also built and installed a number of large beam engines use by the Birmingham Corporation Waterworks Company

Im1863EnV16-p31.jpg
 
Yes, that is a good website description and a good reason why the company chose to give up:

Patent Disc Engine Company

NOTICE is hereby given,

that the Company heretofore subsisting under the name or title of the Birmingham Patent Disc Engine Company, and carrying on business at Birmingham, in the county of Warwick, and of which Company we, the undersigned, are the Directors, was dissolved, on the 1st day of July now last past, under and by virtue of the provisions for that purpose contained in the deed of settlement of the said Company. All debts due to and owing by the said Company, or to or by us on behalf of such Company, will be received and paid by us, as such Directors: As witness our hands this 5th day of June 1845.

Henry Edward Seville.

Thos. Goodman.

Geo. Nelson.


London Gazette June 20th 1845
 
Back
Top