Tribute to a marine engineering classic
Notable Points in the Design History of the Doxford Opposed Piston Marine Oil Engine, by John William Jordan and John Rodney Cartridge
For those with an engineering bent, John William Jordan and John Rodney Cartridge have put together this large, glossy, historical work on the Doxford engine, a key part of Sunderland’s shipbuilding heritage.
As a treasure trove of original images, diagrams and first-person accounts, the book traces the research, development and manufacturing processes of Doxford, which was founded as a shipbuilder in 1840 and produced marine oil engines from 1913. Surviving the Great Depression, which took a heavy toll on the city’s industry, Doxford continued producing the engines until 1979.
The book includes background on the company, its facilities, and the personalities who worked there; plus, of course, a great deal of detail on Doxford’s most famous design, the opposed piston engine. Jordan and Cartridge share extensive stories on tests, tweaks and redesigns that took place during the development of Doxford engines.
Though not a technical work per se, lovers of detail and those with a deep interest in Sunderland’s industrial history will certainly be satisfied.
Notable Points in the Design History of the Doxford Opposed Piston Marine Oil Engine
By John William Jordan and John Rodney Cartridge
Self-published by WM Doxford and Sons Ltd, £25
Limited edition (available in the Nautilus Bookshop)
More Books
Scottish city's maritime heart
Glasgow Harbour By Graeme Smith and Mike McCreeryFew places are as closely tied to maritime heritage as Glasgow. In this richly illustrated guide, Graeme Smith and Mike McCreery trace the history of the city's Clydeside harbour from its beginnings in the 17th century to its present-day redevelopment.
Standing the test of tide
Piers of England and Wales By Steve EdmundsIn this richly illustrated guide, Steve Edmunds takes readers on a tour of the iconic structures that blend land and sea – home to all manner of amusements and amenities.
Maritime mystery tour
Irish Sea Lime Trade, by David JohnsonIn his attractively-presented book, David Johnson takes us on a tour of historical sites in the Irish Sea lime trade, from South Pembrokeshire up to the Solway Firth, and across to the Isle of Man and Ireland.
From seafarer to force of nature
Gale Force 10, by Nicholas CourtneyFrances Beaufort was born in Ireland to a family of Huguenot descent, and first went to sea in 1789 onboard the ill-fated British East India Company vessel Vansittart. In a fascinating career, he is best known for creating the Beaufort Wind Scale.