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Newcomen Beam Engine
(Supplied only as a kit.)
This kit is to build a working model of
the famous Newcomen Atmospheric Steam Engine that was the first engine
to be used commercially to pump water from mines. The first
installation was probably at Dudley,
England in 1712.
It was designed and built in the days when boilers could only
withstand 15 psi and pistons and cylinders could not be made to any
great accuracy. The engines power came from the weight of the pump
rods raising the piston to the top of its stroke, the cylinder being
filled with steam and then water sprayed into the cylinder to condense
the steam to cause a vacuum. The pressure of the atmosphere then
forced the piston down giving the engine its power stroke. Hence the
term 'Atmospheric Engine'.
All in all, an attractive model of interest to the enthusiast and connoisseur.
NEW! A
motorisation kit for the Newcomen engine. Excellent value at
£ 18.00p
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See the Newcomen Engine in operation. Click
here.
See a photograph with components listed. Click
here.
At first, the engines were manually operated by cords but soon
the valve gear was automated. This model incorporates the main features of the
original automated engines. It has a Plug Rod that operates the Steam and Water
Injection Valves, a Buoy which controls the power strokes of the piston and a
combined Snifting Valve and Eduction Tank.
No Machining
Required
The kit come complete with a full instruction manual.
The Main items of woodwork are pre finished and varnished.
Tools required:
Drill and Drill Bits
Vice
Screwdrivers
Pliers
Junior Hacksaw
Soldering Torch and Solder
File
3mm Tap.
The model is not difficult to build (no machining is
required) but you need patience to set up and operate the engine - you
will need an oily rag and a supply of tea towels until you get the hang of
it! Disastrous consequences used to occur with the original Newcomen
Engine when operated by an unskilled operator. |
