Free–Piston and Turbine Compound Engine—Status of the Development

THE history of the free-piston and turbine compound engine development is reviewed briefly. After consideration of the status here and abroad, the salient features of the freepiston engine concept are considered. These are mechanical simplicity, compactness, and an excellent torque-speed characteristic, coupled with a fuel economy comparable to the conventional diesel, the modern record holder in this respect. Some prognostications for the future of the development in this country are also presented.