Subject
Steam-engines Books
Best books
Dionysius Lardner
The Steam Engine Explained and Illustrated (Seventh Edition) With an Account of Its Invention and Progressive Improvement, and Its Application to Navigation and Railways; Including Also a Memoir of Watt
"The Steam Engine Explained and Illustrated" by Dionysius Lardner is a scientific publication written during the mid-19th century. The work provides a detailed exploration of the steam engine's invention, its progressive improvements, and its applications in navigation and railways, along with a memoir of James Watt. It aims to make the complex principles and mechanical workings of the steam engine accessible to the general reader, not just experts in engineering or mechanics. The beginning of this text outlines the importance and historical context of the steam engine, underscoring its significant impact on industrial development and daily life. Lardner discusses the fascination surrounding the steam engine, emphasizing its history of invention, the physics behind steam power, and the various contributors to its development over the centuries. The opening chapters introduce key figures like Hero of Alexandria and James Watt, setting the stage for a comprehensive examination of steam engine mechanics and its revolutionary effects on society and industry.
Charles T. (Charles Talbot) Porter
Engineering reminiscences contributed to "Power" and "American machinist"
"Engineering Reminiscences Contributed to 'Power' and 'American Machinist'" by Charles T. Porter is a memoir and collection of engineering experiences written in the early 20th century. The book reflects on the author's journey through the field of mechanical engineering, detailing significant inventions, challenges faced, and the evolution of technology during his lifetime. It likely focuses on the development of steam engineering and related inventions, showcasing Porter's contributions to the field. At the start of the narrative, Porter introduces himself by outlining his background, from his birth in Auburn, New York, to his education and initial career as a lawyer. He describes his transition into engineering sparked by a series of mechanical mishaps and ventures into invention, including the development of a stone-dressing machine. Porter humorously recounts his early misadventures in mechanics and the lessons he learned, which set the stage for his future innovations. The opening also foreshadows the introduction of significant engineering concepts and figures central to the evolution of steam power and machinery.
Anonymous
Steam Engines
"Steam Engines" by Anonymous is a scientific publication likely written in the early 20th century. This book serves as a comprehensive guide to steam engines, discussing their principles of operation, mechanical details, and efficiency factors. The intended audience appears to include engineers and students of mechanical engineering looking to deepen their understanding of steam engine technology. The content of the book is structured around various aspects of steam engines, covering topics such as the action of steam engines, rating and general proportions, engine details, economy, and types of steam engines. It elaborates on the mechanics of how steam is transformed into work, the importance of efficiency and horsepower calculations, and discusses specific components like valves and governors that are pivotal in engine design. The text details testing methods for determining engine performance and provides practical examples and diagrams to support its instructional purpose, making it a valuable industrial reference for anyone involved in steam engineering.
John Bourne
A Catechism of the Steam Engine
"A Catechism of the Steam Engine" by John Bourne is a technical guide written in the mid-19th century that serves as an extensive reference on steam engines and their applications. The book covers various uses of steam technology in mines, mills, transportation, and agriculture, providing practical instructions for the manufacture and management of different types of engines. Through its systematic approach, the text intends to educate both novices and experienced engineers, taking readers from fundamental concepts to advanced technical details. At the start of the work, the author introduces his intention behind the book, expressing the need for a revised and corrected edition that reflects advancements in steam engine technology. He aims to bridge the knowledge gap for young engineers while maintaining practical relevance. The opening also discusses the book's organization into chapters for clarity and outlines essential elements relating to steam engines, such as the classifications, principles of heat and steam, and the many nuances involved in engine construction and operation. By addressing both theory and practical instruction, the opening establishes a foundation for a comprehensive understanding of steam engines that the rest of the work will build upon.
Unknown
Verklaring van het stoomwerktuig zijnde eene algemeen bevattelijke beschrijving van deszelfs onderscheidene deelen, zamenstelling en werking.
"Verklaring van het stoomwerktuig" by D. van den Bosch is a scientific publication written in the early 19th century. This work provides a comprehensive explanation of the steam engine, detailing its various components, construction, and operation. The text aims to illuminate the fundamental principles of steam technology, which was of great significance during this period of industrial advancement. The opening of this work establishes the importance of the steam engine in various arts and trades, noting that it powers an array of machinery essential for manufacturing and resource extraction. The author explains how steam engines facilitate processes such as spinning fibers into thread and mining, laying the groundwork for later detailed discussions on the principles of heat, expansion, and pressure governing steam. Key concepts like the behavior of gases and liquids under heat are introduced, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of how steam power operates and its transformative impact across industries.
Recently surfaced classics