OMC-2 Beam Engine Series Two
A reciprocating electro-magnetic engine.
Base on original designs from 1836 – 1860 and working on 4.5 volts dc, this fully working electro-magnetic engine kit represents how the pioneers of the time tried to mimic steam engine technology in their efforts to use the newly discovered phenomenon of electricity.
Many configurations of parts were tried and the OMC-2 Beam Engine is typical of the many reciprocating designs that were developed.
There are over 150 parts to assemble but as no machining or soldering is necessary, this kit is suitable for model makers of all abilities.
Great attention to detail has been taken to ensure that all of the parts are made in the style of the period. The brass pillars, finials and terminal connections are typical of the times and the flywheel has been described as a “work of art”.
The coils of this model are arranged in two banks, just like the originals and are charged intermittently causing the armature plate to rock. This movement is transmitted via connecting rods and a beam to a shaft and power takeoff pulley.
The “break piece” or contact blades are fitted next to the shaft and are mounted in two contact housings and operated by cams fitted to the shaft. These contact blades are constructed of nickel silver and fitted with high quality silver nickel contacts to ensure long lasting trouble free operation.
These timing assemblies are mounted on moveable brackets allowing for adjustment to the model’s timing. They are in turn attached to an authentically styled base plate.
This arrangement makes it possible to achieve minimum mechanical resistance at the cams with further fine tuning possible with the timing plate screws that establish how long the timing blades are in contact.
The model is fitted with a fully working on/off switch of period design that incorporates a ball and spring. This makes demonstrating the engine much easier.
Produced from high quality brass, silver steel and zinc coated steel with copper windings on iron cores the model is mounted on a classic wooden base that also conceals the battery box and other modern considerations.
A detailed and illustrated instruction manual is provided and the components are packed in numbered bags that correspond to sections in this manual.
The outer packing converts to an assembly jig to support the model whilst working on the underside.
The kit contains over 150 parts that need assembling.
A very detailed and illustrated instruction manual is provided that also becomes a record of the construction.
No machining or soldering is necessary. Only hand tools are required. A BA spanner tool is provided.
The model operates on 4.5 volts DC and the battery box accepts 3 x AA batteries. (Not supplied)
The wooden base is unfinished and will need drilling (templates supplied). It will also need polishing or varnishing.
The complete model is supplied in kit form in a packing box measuring 30cm (12 in) x 30cm x 5cm (2 in) approximately.
This packing easily converts to an assembly station or jig to help with the construction.
A spares pack of the easily “lost” smaller parts is supplied.
The wooden base measures 22cm (9 in) x 17cm (6, 1/2in) approximately and is 3cm (1,1/4in) high.
The finished model stands 15cm (6in) high approximately.
The flywheel has a diameter of 6 cm (2,1/2in) and the beam is 14cm (5,1/2in) long.
This product is not a toy and because of the number of small components this kit is not suitable for youngsters under the age of 12 years unless supervised by an adult.
The Old Model Company Limited reserves the right to change the specification at any time without notice.