My First (very simple) Engine.

My first attempt at building a simple oscillator-type steam engine. Unfortunately, the plans were on a 'Geocities' web site, which is now defunct! However, here is another site which has plans for a similar engine: http://npmccabe.tripod.com/index-4.html . Not as simple in construction as the one in my video but gives you the layout for the steam holes and pivot point, which are the key elements in the design. And if that doesn't work, here's another site: http://sensi.org/~svo/steam/ .

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• steam
• engine
• model
• oscillator

[theseanster7]

I'm in the process of making one of these. what do you use to lubricate the cylinder?

[TFL1945]

@theseanster7 There is specialized steam engine oil but that is really only necessary for larger models. For models such as this, any oil will suffice, particularly if you're only going to run them on compressed air. But even on steam, little stress is involved, run times are short and there is little or no load. So the oil serves to lubricate, of course, but mainly helps seal the piston in the cylinder, there being no piston rings. Household oil (eg, 3-In-1) or even auto oil will suffice.

[sjogge123]

whats that "spring" at the back part thats jumping in and out?

[TFL1945]

@sjogge123 The basic design of an oscillator employs a spring to keep the cylinder face pressed against the steam ports. (Also acts as safety valve - used in "toy" engines.). The spring is mounted on the pivot shaft, and since this shaft is fixed to the piston, it oscillates the same as the piston. What you see moving is the retaining clip used to keep the spring on the shaft.

[Remi7lives]

@theseanster7 if you know waht i mean

[arnoldaszlt]

yea. simple to make. that is so easy and it's handmade yes ;DDDDD cool engine ;)

[outdoorsman310]

@TFL1945 can you use atf?

[TFL1945]

Sorry - it's only single acting. To make it double acting would increase complexity and likely defeat the objective of making it simple to build. Not saying it couldn't be done but I see some design problems. (That's why I made a twin-cyclinder variant rather than try and build a double acting engine.)

[DrFrankensteam]

Very good, very good indeed. I do have a complete machine shop at my disposal, however I was exploring the idea of making a video on building one with hand tools only. So that people that might be interested could give it a try. It is double acting right?

[TFL1945]

Thanks for the comment. If you use the recommended materials, only basic shop tools are needed - hacksaw, file, drill, soldering iron and sand paper will suffice. After all, it is a very simple engine and the designer's objective was to minimize the need for any special tooling.