First published in 1928, this is a classic guide to a the Three-Cylinder Compound Locomotive, a type of steam-powered engine used in trains. The first example of such an engine was built for the old Midland Railway in January, 1902. With detailed explanations and simple diagrams, this volume provides a complete overview of the engine and its inner workings. Highly recommended for vintage locomotive enthusiasts. Contents include: “Air Valves”, “Action in the Cylinders”, “Arithmetic”, “Bye-Pass Valves”, “Compound Expansion of Steam”, “Compound System Adopted”, “Compound Regulator Valve”, “Carbonation”, “Failures and Remedies”, “Handling the Engine”, “Horse Power”, “Leading the Engine”, “Horse Power”, “Leading Dimensions and Rations”, “Lubrication”, “Non-Return Valves”, etc. Many vintage books such as this are increasingly scarce and expensive. It is with this in mind that we are republishing this volume now in an affordable, modern, high-quality edition complete with a the original text and artwork.

Contains the transactions of various engineering societies.

Between 1900 and 1950, Americans built the most powerful steam locomotives of all time--enormous engines that powered a colossal industry. They were deceptively simple machines, yet, the more their technology was studied, the more obscure it became. Despite immense and sustained engineering efforts, steam locomotives remained grossly inefficient in their use of increasingly costly fuel and labor. In the end, they baffled their masters and, as soon as diesel-electric technology provided an alternative, steam locomotives disappeared from American railroads. Drawing on the work of eminent engineers and railroad managers of the day, this lavishly illustrated history chronicles the challenges, triumphs and failures of American steam locomotive development and operation.