Power from Steam A History of the Stationary Steam Engine [Paperback]

Power from Steam is the first comprehensive history of the steam engine in 50 years.This comprehensive history of the steam engine follows the development of reciprocating steam engines, from their earliest forms until the beginning of the twentieth century, when they were replaced by steam turbines.This comprehensive history of the steam engine follows the development of reciprocating steam engines, from their earliest forms until the beginning of the twentieth century, when they were replaced by steam turbines.This is the first comprehensive history of the steam engine in fifty years. It follows the development of reciprocating steam engines, from their earliest forms to the beginning of the twentieth century when they were replaced by steam turbines.1. The noblest machine; 2. The impellant force of fire; 3. Common old smoking engines; 4. The economy of power; 5. The devil of rotations; 6. Such unbounded power; 7. Good servants but bad masters; 8. An uncultivated field; 9. The new theory of heat; 10. The internal operation of the machine; 11. Such absolute smoothness; 12. Twinkle twinkle little arc; 13. The drive for efficiency; 14. An economical source of motive power; 15. The most economical mode of obtaining power; Bibliography. Not only does the book draw upon Hills's practical experience with working machines; it also shows the hand of the erudite scholar, drawing upon the records of such diverse institutions as the British Museum and the Smithsonian Institution....Profusely illustrated and full of detailed technical as well as historical, social, and economic information, this book will delight amateur and scholar alike. Choice To the general historian wishing to understand the technical mind, it would be difficult indeed to recommend a book that better reveals the genius of homo faber in the machine age. Cecil O. Smith, Jr., American Historical Review ...will appeal to those interested in the history of technology. They may enjoy the nostalgic feelilÓr