The Steam Engine

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.

Unlock the secrets of steam locomotives with this comprehensive book covering how they work, including their design, evolution, and construction. Learn about how they were designed, how they work, what each of the components do, and how the engines operated. Well-known railway author Brian Solomon covers their strengths and weaknesses, how they evolved, and how and why diesel locomotives were able to supersede them. You'll get an in-depth view of the fascinating and extremely popular steam locomotives used throughout history including: How steam locomotive components work together to get a train into motion The evolution of steam leading to more-powerful locomotives The various wheel arrangements and what service each was designed for Differences among coal- and oil-fired types And more! Featuring extensive photo coverage and drawings, this 208-page book is essential for any railfan or model railroader. Take the mystery out of these iconic living, breathing beings!

Ken Gibbs tells the history of the engineering triumph that is a steam locomotive from the 1800s to the 1960s showing how each development changed the course of history.

"The Most Powerful Idea in the World argues that the very notion of intellectual property drove not only the invention of the steam engine but also the entire Industrial Revolution." -- Back cover.

A highly readable history of the stationary steam engine, intelligible to the non-specialist reader and engineer alike.