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Steam Engine DemoImportant: This demonstration shows provides some of the basic information for assembly and operation of this particular scale-model steam engine. There are variations in assembly for each particular model. Read and carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions that come with yours -- whether it is this particular model or another. Additional information about assembly as well as running, troubleshooting and fine-tuning the model can typically be found in the manufacturer's instructions. Safety Alert: Always wear safety glasses or eye protection whenever working with steam engines.
Since the Steam Launch is a steam-powered model, Chris provided a brief overview of how steam engines work using a working scale-model engine -- Yesteryear's Wellesco® dual-action steam engine (figure C). - Unlike internal combustion engines, steam engines work with parts that operate externally. Steam engines were also used for early railroad engines.
- To operate this steam engine, fill the boiler with three ounces of distilled water (figure D). Using distilled water helps minimize the chance of mineral buildup inside the engine.
Place six fuel-tables in the sliding tray. These tablets are alcohol-based and are available at hobby shops. Light several fuel tablets (figure E), then slide the tray into boiler (figure F).
When the water reaches boiling temperature, steam is generated and produces the power (figure G). This steam engine features an operating pressure gauge and steam whistle. A throttle control-valve regulates how much steam-pressure reaches the engine, and therefore the speed at which the engine operates. Excess steam is routed out via the chimney as exhaust.
In the segment that follows, a smaller steam engine is installed in the Midwest Steam Launch.
A scale replica of the fabled PT-109, the boat on which John F. Kennedy was once a crewmember.
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RESOURCES :
Resources for Radio Control Hobbies episode 304
Southeast Boat Modelers Club
Website: SEBM web site
Hobbico Aquacraft Fishing Trawler®
Website: www.hobbico.com
Downeast Lobsterboat®
Midwest Products Co.
Website: www.midwestproducts.com
PT-109 RC boat
Midwest Products Co.
Website: www.midwestproducts.com
D-21 Wilesco® steam engine
Diamond Enterprises
Website: www.yesteryeartoys.com
Vac-U-Boat® tug
Website: www.vac-u-boat.com
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