You can build a steam engine for experiments quite easily. However, you need to follow specific steps to this small steam engine work.
Required Tools and Materials
Can of Sterno
Drill
Two wooden dowels, one smaller than the other
Flat piece of wood, 3 x 5 “at least
Rubber sheet
Beaded chain
High wattage soldering iron
Small nail
Pliers
File
Diagonal cutters
Detached can lid
Tin
Two brass tubes, small
Punch a couple of holes measuring 1/8 inches on the can’s top. The holes should be across one another. Use the nails to make the hole.
Step 2
Use the cutter to slice the tubes. File the tubes’ ends to widen the opening. You can use the pliers to squeeze the end so it is more open.
Step 3
Set the can to an angle. You can solder the tubes with a high wattage soldering iron. Solder it on the can using solder that is lead free.
Step 4
When you build a steam engine, solder a length of beaded chain in the middle of the lid. Trace a circle on a rubber sheet with the lid. Slice the circle. Put this on the lid. This will function as the gasket so the steam will not seep through.
Step 5
To make the engine support, use two dowels and a wood piece. Make a hole in the wood piece. Put the bigger dowel in the opening. Make a hole in the dowel you inserted.
It should be an inch off the top. Put the smaller dowel in this opening. The hole has to be drilled in the smaller dowel. It should be an inch off the top too. Put wire in the hole if the chain is loose.
Step 6
Put the chain in the smaller dowel. Solder the lid on the end. Pour water in the can. Put the lid into position. Make sure the rubber sheet fits properly. Place the Sterno can below the tin can. Light it up. Let the sterns warm the water up. Let it boil.
When it boils, the steam will come out from the brass tubes. The can will rotate. If the engine refuses to spin, you have to tighten the ends of the tubes. This will produce more pressure. The engine will now work.
As long as you follow the right directions, you will have no problem when you build a steam engine. Be careful when using the engine as it can get quite hot. Use all safety precautions.
