Curtiss K

The Curtiss K series engines were a family of early American aircraft engines designed and built by the Curtiss Aeroplane and Motor Company. They were water-cooled V-8 engines that played a significant role in the development of early aviation, particularly in the United States, during the World War I era and the years immediately following.

The Curtiss K-6 and K-12 are variations within this series, differing primarily in the number of cylinders and resulting power output. The K-6 was a six-cylinder inline engine, while the K-12 was a V-12 engine. However, the designation "Curtiss K" often refers more broadly to the entire family of engines utilizing similar design principles.

These engines were notable for their relatively high power-to-weight ratio for their time, contributing to the success of several Curtiss aircraft designs. They were also used in other applications, including racing boats and automobiles. The development and refinement of the Curtiss K series engines were instrumental in advancing American engine technology and played a key role in the country's early aviation industry.