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THIS report on a canvass of a number of engineers concerned with aircraft, aircraft powerplants, and fuels and lubricants indicates that the reciprocating engine will continue to occupy a paramount position among aircraft powerplants for the next 10 years. Turboprops will gradually displace reciprocating engines in some types of airplanes, chiefly air transports and bombers. Turbojets will be common soon in fighters and later in bombers. But small aircraft will still be relying on reciprocating engines in 1957, according to the survey.

WITH engine outputs continually going up it is worthy to note that the in-line air-cooled engine possesses certain inherent characteristics which make it particularly suitable as an aircraft engine of high output. Satisfactory cooling of this type of engine has been obtained at higher rated specific outputs than have yet been achieved in any other kind of air-cooled engine. A type of valve gear can be used which, in addition to being suitable for high-speed operation, permits long periods of operation without the necessity for checking valve clearances. The lubrication of this type of engine appears to be less of a problem than that of the slower speed radials. Smoothness of operation and relative quietness at high speed not only afford comfort to pilots and passengers, but also affect favorably the life of both engine and airplane. The cowling of the in-line engine is relatively simple and permits excellent visibility, combined with the possibility of reduced drag.