Power from Steam: A History of the Stationary Steam Engine

by Richard L. Hills

Overview

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.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521458344
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	08/19/1993
Edition description:	Reprint
Pages:	356
Product dimensions:	6.02(w) x 8.98(h) x 1.10(d)

Table of Contents

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.

Editorial Reviews

"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 feeling evoked by the mementos of past centuries, as well as appreciate the scholarly documentation presented. It should be interesting reading for the members of the technical research community who have to plan and execute new product development for future generations." John Tuzson, Applied Mechanical Review

"...a graceful, knowledgeable, and welcome addition to the large literature on steam." Carroll Pursell, ISIS

From the Publisher