| An Introduction to Hot Air Engines. Produced by
Bob Bailey who distributes a NTSC version.
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| The following review appeared in MODELTEC, May 1996.
If you are one of that growing number of modellers and antique power fans who find themselves fascinated by hot air engines or at least puzzling over the preposterous notion that something with nothing in it but air can get work out of the flywheel end with nothing but a candle on the other end, this video is for you! If, on the other hand, youre a sceptic and dont see why anyone would bother puttering around with such daffy things as hot air engines, this video is still for you. And if youre one whos just never paid hot air engines any mind, well, this video is for you, in spades!
In the January 1996 issue of MODELTEC, producer Bob Bailey told of his adventures in putting this video together, how it began with the simple concept of giving viewers a look at a national hot air engine meet, and quickly took on a life of its own. Bob shortly found it necessary to explain some of the principles of Stirling (and other) cycle engines, which he does with the aid of several nicely arranged charts,demonstration models and computer generated graphics. He keeps the instruction part of the video simple. Those interested in studying hot air engine technology in greater depth are urged to acquire one or more of the books and publications listed in a bibliography at the end.
Following the introduction to hot air engines, Bob takes you on a grand tour of hot air engines and engine builders. There are visits with deans of the hobby such as professor James R. Senft, Andy Ross, Donald Isaacs, Olaf A. Berge, and many others, famous and not famous. One segment features an engine which can be completely torn down in a matter of two minutes or less with only one tool. Another shows an engine being developed for full sized aircraft use. And there are antique hot air engines scattered everywhere throughout, not all of them operating on the Stirling cycle, by any means.
Whether you have an interest in hot air engines, or would like to, or just want to see what all the hullabaloo is about, this 80 minute video will be an excellent addition to your library.
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Warning: Due to the lack of a universal standard in television transmission, before purchasing any video check, with the vendor, that the version is compatible with your system.
