The existence of the 12-rotor engine built by Tyson Garvin of Apex Manufacturing and Design is confirmed. The engine was designed and assembled over 15 years ago, and it has gained attention due to its unique configuration and potential performance.
Here are some of the key features of the world’s only 12-rotor engine:
- Dimensions and bolt pattern are the same as Chevy’s big block engines. This makes it a good candidate for swaps into other vehicles.
- Capable of hitting 10,000 rpm and producing up to 800 pound-feet of torque at 2,000 rpm. It is rumoured to make up to 1,400 horsepower in its current configuration, but more power is possible with race fuel and turbocharging.
- Originally designed for speed boat racing, some design flaws limited its applications. However, the engine’s dimensions and bolt pattern make it a good candidate for swaps into other vehicles.
- One of the biggest challenges with the engine is its oil consumption. The apex seals, which seal the rotor’s tips against the chamber wall, tend to wear out and require frequent replacement. This can lead to excessive oil consumption, which can damage the engine.
- Another challenge with the engine is its high exhaust temperature. The exhaust ports are located close to the apex seals, which can cause them to overheat and wear out prematurely. This can lead to exhaust leaks and decreased engine performance.
12-Rotor Engine
The 12-rotor engine is capable of reaching 10,000 rpm and producing up to 800 pound-feet of torque at 2,000 rpm. The exact power output is unavailable, but it is claimed to generate up to 1,400 horsepower in its current configuration. With race fuel and turbocharging, even higher power figures may be achievable.
The main purpose behind building this engine was for speed boat racing, but the design flaws limited its applications in that specific field. However, the engine has the same dimensions and bolt pattern as Chevy’s big block engines, allowing for potential swap opportunities into different vehicles.
Big Block Chevy
Tyson Garvin claims rotary engines like the one he built have no known true failure. While certain components like tip seals can wear out, no inherent weaknesses would cause a catastrophic failure like in traditional piston engines. He also mentioned that the shape of a Big Block Chevy engine inspired the design of the 12-rotor engine.
However, in a video by YouTuber Rob Dahm, who received the 12-rotor engine from Garvin, he discusses the challenges and flaws associated with the engine. While he acknowledges the brilliance of the design, he points out certain issues and difficulties that arise with such a complex and unconventional engine configuration. The video likely details the specific challenges faced by the 12-rotor engine.
Conclusion
The world’s only 12-rotor engine is a unique and powerful machine. It is capable of producing a lot of horsepower and torque, and it has the potential to be a successful swap engine in other vehicles. However, potential owners should be aware of the engine’s challenges and be prepared to take steps to mitigate them.
Here are some of the challenges potential owners should be aware of:
- High oil consumption: The apex seals, which seal the rotor’s tips against the chamber wall, tend to wear out and require frequent replacement. This can lead to excessive oil consumption, which can damage the engine.
- High exhaust temperature: The exhaust ports are located close to the apex seals, which can cause them to overheat and wear out prematurely. This can lead to exhaust leaks and decreased engine performance.
- Complexity: The engine requires specialized knowledge and skills to maintain and repair.
- Cost: The engine is expensive to build and maintain.
Despite these challenges, the 12-rotor engine is a unique and powerful machine that can offer its owners a lot of performance and excitement. If you are considering purchasing a 12-rotor engine, research and understand the challenges before deciding.
