Working Glass Steam Engines

I love watching engines run.
When they are made out of glass they are just so much more awesome!
From that font of all video wonders YouTube.


Glass steam engine made in 2008,named after the original made in the 1850s. The cylinder and valve housing are made of glass so you can see the action inside.


This Model of Stephenson's Steam Engine was made in 2008 by master glassblower Michal Zahradník.

Highlights:
* The crankshaft is glass.
* The piston is glass.
* The counterweight that makes the wheel spin evenly is glass.

* There are no sealants used. All is accomplished by a perfectly snug fit. The gap between the piston and its compartment is so small, that the water that condensates from the steam seals it shut!
* Notice the elaborate excessive steam exhaust system next to the piston.
* The piston is the most arduous part to make due to to extreme level of precision needed. Its parts have to be so accurate that no machinery is of use here. The piston and its cylinder must be hand sanded to perfection, and they are very likely to crack in the process! On average, three out of four crack.

Keep yous sightglass full, your firebox trimmed and your water iced.
KJ