Clerget 9 A Diesel, Radial 9 Engine, ca. 1928. Creator: Panhard-Levassor

Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images

Clerget 9 A Diesel, Radial 9 Engine, ca. 1928. Creator: Panhard-Levassor

Pierre Clerget was inspired by the Gnome to produce a supposedly improved rotary engine in 1911. It was a 7-cylinder, 11.88 liter (725 cu in) engine rated at 60 kW (80 hp) at 1, 200 rpm. Thousands of these engines were manufactured in France and Britain. Larger 9-cylinder rotary engines began production in 1913. In the 1920s, Clerget transitioned to 4-stroke diesel engines, which initially had dimensions similar to the rotaries. The Clerget 9A was built by Clerget, Blin, and Cie of Paris, France, with development beginning in 1928. On September 28, 1929, in a Morane 135 aircraft, it became the first diesel aircraft engine to fly in France. This engine was followed by the 149 kW (200 shp) 9B in 1930, the 186 kW (250 shp) 9Br (which was reversible in flight) in 1931, and the 224 kW (300 shp) 9C in 1932

Heritage Images features heritage image collections

Media ID 23877627

© Heritage Art/Heritage Images

Air And Space Museum Air Transport Aircraft Aviation Engine Flight Nasm National Air And Space Museum Propulsion Propulsion Reciprocating Rotary Reciprocating Motion Rotary Engine T And Xe9

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the Clerget 9 A Diesel, Radial 9 Engine, a remarkable creation by Panhard-Levassor in approximately 1928. Inspired by the renowned Gnome engine, Pierre Clerget embarked on producing an enhanced rotary engine in 1911. The initial model was a seven-cylinder marvel with a displacement of 11.88 liters (725 cu in), generating an impressive power output of 60 kW (80 hp) at 1,200 rpm. These engines were widely manufactured both in France and Britain during that time. As technology advanced, Clerget transitioned to developing four-stroke diesel engines in the following decade while maintaining similar dimensions to their rotary predecessors. The Clerget 9A emerged from this evolution and was meticulously crafted by Clerget, Blin et Cie of Paris, France. It commenced its journey into aviation history on September 28th, 1929 when it became the first diesel aircraft engine to take flight within French borders aboard a Morane 135 aircraft. The success of the Clerget series continued with subsequent models such as the powerful 9B delivering an impressive output of149 kW (200 shp) in1930; followed by the reversible-in-flight version known as the9Br boasting186 kW (250 shp) introducedin1931; culminating withthe mighty224 kW (300 shp) powerhouse calledthe9C unveiledin1932. This extraordinary artifact represents not only technological advancement but also pays homage to France's rich aviation heritage. Preserved within Smithsonian Institution's National Air and Space Museum collection, this piece serves asa testamentto human ingenuityand scientific progress throughoutthe twentieth century. The intricate combinationof steel aluminum preservative coating brass components is truly awe-inspiring, makingit an educational treasurefor all who appreciateair transportand propulsion advancementsfromthis era.

MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee

FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools

SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you

* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.