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In a steam engine, hot steam, usually supplied by a boiler, expands under pressure, and part of the heat energy is converted into work. As the steam expands, it pushes the piston, which is usually connected to a crank on a flywheel to produce rotary motion.
How do steam locomotives work?
When heated, water turns to an invisible vapor known as steam. The volume of water expands as it turns to steam inside the boiler, creating a high pressure. The expansion of steam pushes the pistons that connect to the driving wheels that operate the locomotive.
Why are steam engines no longer used?
Steam road vehicles were used for many applications. In the 20th century, the rapid development of internal combustion engine technology led to the demise of the steam engine as a source of propulsion of vehicles on a commercial basis, with relatively few remaining in use beyond the Second World War.
Why do steam locomotives puff black smoke?
A The color of exhaust you see coming out of a steam locomotive’s smoke stack indicates how efficiently it is burning fuel. Darker or blacker smoke is an indication that small fuel particles (coal, wood, fuel oil, etc.) have made it through the firebox unburned and are therefore wasted.
How much water does a steam engine use?
Water is the most significant limitation with most locomotives hauling loaded trains at express speeds being limited to about 100 miles (160 km) between fillings of the tender. For the A1 class an average of 40-45 gallons (113-137 litres) per mile is to be expected.
Why do steam trains have diesels on the back?
Shunting at the destination/terminus – not all destinations have run round loops in the platforms to allow the loco to change ends. Having a diesel loco at the back allows the stock to be pulled clear and release the train engine, which can then go off for turning (either via a wye/triangle or a turntable).
How did steam locomotives lower the cost of transporting?
How did steam locomotives lower the cost of transporting raw materials and finished goods? They cost nothing to run because they ran on steam. They could transport many materials or goods at once. They were uncomplicated and inexpensive to build.
How powerful are steam locomotives?
“Steam locomotives are some of the most powerful engines ever made,” said Jamie Ryan, who has worked in many capacities for the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad in Durango, Colo. The locomotives range in tractive effort from 27,000 pounds in a K27 to 37,000 pounds in a K37 (see how the names work?).
How fast did steam trains go?
Steam trains started out running at 30 mph in 1830. Top speed increased quickly to about 80 mph by 1850, and changed little until the late 1880s. However, few trains would regularly run that fast.
Do coal trains still exist?
The majority of steam locomotives were retired from regular service by the 1980s, although several continue to run on tourist and heritage lines.
Why do American steam trains have large funnels?
To reduce the expense of rebuilding trestles, fighting fires, and compensating for burned property, the railroads outfitted their wood-burning locomotives with those large funnels, which trapped the burning embers in a device called a “spark arrestor”.
Why is train smoke white?
White smoke is simply steam – evaporated water. With diesel locomotives, white smoke can mean that oil is vaporized – that happens with cold machines that get too much diesel fuel injected. Those are also the ones who shoot out flames of the exhaust when the vaporized diesel ignites in the hot exhaust.
How fast was the Big Boy locomotive?
It had a maximum power capacity of more than 6,000 horsepower and could haul a 3,600-ton train unassisted up the Wasatch Mountain grade. Pulling freight on level track, it could achieve a speed of 70 miles (112 km) per hour.
What happens when a steam locomotive runs out of water?
Before a steam engine runs out of water, the boiler will usually blow up. Once the crown sheet in the firebox does not have any water on top of it, the metal suffers intense fatigue, and the boiler blows up. Some more modern steam locomotives are designed so that there is a sort of controlled explosion.
Where do steam locomotives store water?
A water trough (British terminology), or track pan (American terminology) is a device to enable a steam locomotive to replenish its water supply while in motion. It consists of a long trough filled with water, lying between the rails.
How long does it take to start a steam locomotive?
Originally Answered: How long did it take to start a steam locomotive? You’re looking at anywhere from one to six hours, depending on how cold it is, and how big the locomotive/boiler is. A steam locomotive that’s completely cold (room temperature) needs to heat up all the metal and all the water in the boiler.
Do steam trains pollute the air?
Steam locomotives, most of which used to be fueled with coal, produce massive amounts of smoke and dirt. They are also known to emit harmful elements along with releasing particulates, acid gases, and organic compounds. Other problems include erosion, soil pollution, and water pollution.
How many cars can a steam locomotive pull?
The number of wagons can vary from 40 to 46 depending on the track gradient and other constraints, such as the length of passing loops, loading and discharging loops, and sidings. In typical operating conditions, each locomotive can pull 20 to 23 fully loaded wagons.
How far could a steam locomotive go before needing water?
During the very early days of steam locomotives, water stops were necessary every 7–10 miles (11-16 km) and consumed much travel time. With the introduction of tenders (a special car containing water and fuel), trains could run 100–150 miles (160–240 km) without a refill.
