Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 2:14:50-2:15:22

Could destroyer crews have used desk-fan motors for radar?

A desk-fan motor would probably have been inadequate, while a sweep of about 270 degrees is the preferred reconstruction of the radar adaptation.

10th Destroyer FlotillaNaval InnovationNaval RadarPlan Position Indicator
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Question

Could the destroyers have powered their modified radar with motors taken from desk fans?

Short answer

Probably not from desk fans, because the load was too heavy; other small motors remain possible, with no source confirmed.

Notes

A desk-fan motor probably could not handle the radar's weight, although other small motors could have been available. No particular motor or source is identified. The required sweep needed to cover the forward sector, neighboring ships on either side, and some area aft. That requirement makes about 270 degrees the preferred estimate for the possible modification.