20 Questions
What is the purpose of the eccentric in a steam engine?
To convert rotary motion to the reciprocating motion required by the slide valve
What does a double-acting steam engine do?
Produces power on both the upward and the downward stroke
What is the purpose of a lubricator in a steam engine?
To reduce friction and wear by feeding oil between sliding surfaces
What is the purpose of packing boxes in a steam engine?
To prevent steam from leaking past the piston rod or valve rod
What is the function of a flywheel in a steam engine?
To store excess energy during the stroke and release it at the end of the stroke
What is the purpose of a drain cock in a steam engine?
To remove water caused by condensation of steam from the lowest part of the cylinder
What is the main reason why steam engines have become nearly obsolete?
Greater complexity and lower efficiency compared to steam turbines
In which application are steam engines still used today?
To power restored vintage locomotives, sawmills, steamships, and agricultural traction engines
What type of valve controls the steam admission to, and the exhaust from, the engine cylinder in the simple steam engine described in figure 2?
D-slide valve
What is the function of the throttle valve in the simple steam engine?
Regulates the flow of steam from the main steam pipe to the steam chest
What characteristic of a simple steam engine makes it difficult to recover and re-use lubricating oil for boiler feedwater?
Discharging of lubricating oil with its exhaust steam
In which type of engine does steam from the main steam pipe enter the steam chest via the throttle valve?
Steam engine
What should be done when water stops flowing through the drain valves?
Open the stop valve slightly to allow steam to blow freely through the drains
What can happen if a steam valve is opened suddenly?
It will cause water hammer and may result in ruptured pipes or fittings
What should be monitored to ensure that engines are not overheating?
Lubricators to ensure they are filled to the correct level
When inspecting engines, why should frequent inspection be recommended depending on site-specific conditions?
To address any issues that may arise due to site-specific conditions
What is the significance of knowing the sound of a normally running engine?
It helps in identifying minor troubles at an early stage
What can happen if bearings are running hotter than normal?
They may need special attention as they could indicate a problem
Why is it important to inspect all steam engines and driven machinery at regular intervals?
To address any issues that may arise due to site-specific conditions
What should be done if heavily loaded engines are found?
Inspect them more often and pay special attention to bearings if running hotter than normal
Study Notes
Steam Engine Components and Functions
- The eccentric in a steam engine converts the rotary motion of the crankshaft into reciprocating motion of the valve.
- A double-acting steam engine allows steam to enter the cylinder on both the forward and return strokes, making it more efficient.
Lubrication and Maintenance
- A lubricator in a steam engine supplies oil to moving parts to reduce friction and wear.
- Packing boxes in a steam engine contain the high-pressure steam and prevent it from leaking out.
- A drain cock in a steam engine allows condensate to be removed from the cylinder.
Performance and Safety
- The main reason why steam engines have become nearly obsolete is due to their low efficiency and high maintenance costs.
- Steam engines are still used today in applications such as power generation, marine propulsion, and industrial processes.
- A flywheel in a steam engine helps to smooth out the motion of the crankshaft and provides a buffer against sudden changes in load.
Valve Operations
- A slide valve or piston valve controls the steam admission to, and the exhaust from, the engine cylinder in a simple steam engine.
- The throttle valve in a simple steam engine regulates the amount of steam entering the engine cylinder.
Engine Inspection and Maintenance
- If water stops flowing through the drain valves, the valves should be checked for blockages or corrosion.
- If a steam valve is opened suddenly, it can cause water hammer, which can lead to damage or failure of the engine.
- The temperature of the engine should be monitored to ensure that it is not overheating.
- Frequent inspection of engines is recommended depending on site-specific conditions to prevent damage or failure.
- The sound of a normally running engine can be used to detect unusual sounds or vibrations that may indicate a problem.
- If bearings are running hotter than normal, it can indicate a problem with lubrication or wear.
- Regular inspection of steam engines and driven machinery is important to ensure safe and efficient operation.
- If heavily loaded engines are found, they should be inspected and maintained regularly to prevent damage or failure.
Test your knowledge on the historical significance and decline of steam engines, as well as their challenges compared to modern prime movers like steam turbines and combustion engines. Explore the reasons behind the rarity of steam engines in the present day.
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