The Steam Engine

A Cardboard Steam Engine- is that really possible? Oh yes!!!

See for yourself: this model not only looks great, it also works, happily chuff-chuffing away. The boiler, made from an aluminium tin, has a magnetic safety valve. The aluminium fire box underneath holds five tea lights. These are enclosed in a safety cage made from galvanised wire mesh. The steam is conducted through a closed system of tubes before being emitted through the chimney.

This clever construction keeps cardboard and steam separated with the piston being moved by a bellows made from the finger of a plastic glove.

An Engine with History!

The invention of the steam engine is usually attributed to the Scotsman James Watt (1736-1819), as he was granted a patent for it in 1769. In fact he invented a lot of improvements that started off the industrial revolution with the steam engine at its heart. The actual inventor though was the Englishman Thomas Newcomen in 1712. But even he had precursors, even if their constructions were not successful.

Cardboard + Water = Steam Engine?

Of course the question is: How can a steam engine made from cardboard actually work? Paper, water, and Fire... isn't that a perfect recipe for disaster? This kit has the answer: Yes, it is possible and the engine works following the same principles as all other steam engines. The secret is a few heat and water resistant components that are fitted at the critical points. They ensure that fire and water never come in contact with the cardboard.

This is how it works:

The boiler is made from corrosion resistant aluminium and is fitted with a magnetic safety valve. The firebox underneath, containing five tea lights, is made from galvanised wire mesh. The steam is conducted through a sealed system of tubes and is released through a chimney lined with kitchen foil. The mechanical power of the engine is rather modest, ensuring a safe boiler pressure.

Please remember:

The minimum temperature of steam is 100°C. Therefore children should always be supervised by an adult when operating this steam engine!