Power from Steam
Power from Steam
$71.00
USDPower from Steam is the first comprehensive history of the steam engine in 50 years, following the development of the reciprocating steam engine. Hills covers its history from its earliest form to the beginning of the twentieth century when it was replaced by the steam turbine. Although the first steam engine was used to pump water, its development really started with the mechanisation of the textile industry. This development is studied closely and the theoretical understanding of its operation is covered. The background of thermodynamics is introduced to show how science and design coupled to produce increasingly more efficient and powerful engines. This book will be indispensable to steam power enthusiasts as well as historians of technology.
- The first comprehensive history of the steam engine in 50 years
- Indispensable to steam power enthusiasts as well as historians of technology
Reviews & endorsements
"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
Product details
August 1993Paperback
9780521458344
356 pages
228 × 153 × 28 mm
0.585kg
77 b/w illus. 16 tables
Available
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.
