The Magic Of A Steam Engine

The steam locomotive is marvelous invention using basic physics to move tons of steel!

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In a reciprocating steam engine, the slide valve moves back and forth over the piston by admitting steam to the front end of the cylinder and then to rear in a continuous motion. At the end of the piston stroke, the valves shifts and opens to allow the remaining steam (spent steam) to escape.

Other valves used to control steam on locomotives include:

1. Stephenson valve
2. Baker valve
3. Southern valve
4. Young valve – used with single compression locomotives such as Big Boy

The cylinders are designed to handle tremendous amounts of steam pressure generated by the boiler. Let us know if you have ever seen a cut away of a steam engine in a museum. We would love to hear thoughts!