Is This the Coolest Steam Airplane Footage Ever?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion highlights the unique feature of engine reversal in steam engines, emphasizing that it does not require a reversing gear in the drivetrain. Instead, reversing can be achieved by stopping the engine, clearing the live steam, and redirecting steam into the high-pressure cylinder valve. A specific example is provided using a Wilesco D456 model steam engine, where the user manually spins the flywheel in the opposite direction after shutting down the steam supply. Additionally, links to resources on valve gear methods for reversing steam engines are shared, although compatibility issues with Mac computers are noted. Overall, the conversation centers on the mechanics of steam engine operation and practical insights into model steam engines.
BadBrain
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Here 'tis:



Enjoy! :wink:
 
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Love the music!
Engine reveral was a neat feature.
 
256bits said:
Love the music!
Engine reveral was a neat feature.

That's a point I wanted to make on another thread started by some guy who had a question about reversing gears, but I couldn't find the thread. I wanted to use this as an example of an engine that doesn't require a reversing gear in the drive train, as reverse action in a steam engine can be generated just by stopping the engine, clearing out any live steam from the piston, and then redirecting the initial live steam input into the HP cylinder valve opening opposite that which takes the initial input for forward operation. On my model steam engine (a Wilesco D456), I accomplish this simply by closing the main steam stop until the engine shuts down, and then reopening it and then manually spinning the flywheel in the direction opposite that required for forward motion.
 
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Nice find!
 
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