The High Speed Internal Combustion Engine by Sir Harry R. Ricardo, LL.D., F. R. S.Sir Harry Ricardo was one of the most influential piston-engine researchers in Great Britain, and probably the world. His efforts resulted in the very advanced engines which powered Britain's aircraft during WW II, and have influenced engine design ever since. This book lucidly chronicles the fascinating highlights of Ricardo's achievements, and is utterly indespensible for anyone interested in appreciating the engineering fundamentals of piston-engine design and development.
Ricardo's early efforts in characterizing the detonation properties of fuels have given us our present-day octane ratings, and their measurement. His later research and development work, summarized in this book, resulted in engine designs considered to represent the most advanced aircraft engines made. He had even more ideas to try, but the rise of turbine engines put an end to the development of high-output piston engines for aircraft.
That this richly informative and historical book is out of print is highly regrettable. It is most definitely worth attempting to locate used, and will provide a wealth of insight and historical perspective. Highly recommended.
