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How to Build Simple Steam Engines

The first idea of a steam engine came from Hero of Alexandria circa the first century. He used the idea to create steam-operated automatic doors for the temples. Steam engines as we know them today were invented in the 18th century, and this invention would change how the world worked forever as it helped power the Industrial Revolution.

Steam engines were used for a variety of applications that included locomotives, steam turbines, paddle-wheel boats, steamships as ocean liners, and to raise water out of mines.

The steam engine would lead way for steam cars, marine compound engines, atmospheric engines and the inverted vertical engine.

Things You'll Need

Aluminum can
Straight pin
4-square inch of metal (Optional cut from aluminum can)
Tape
1/2 ounce of water
Cork
Foam cup large enough to cover top of can
Goggles
Bunsen burner

Instructions

- 1
  Poke two holes in the aluminum can approximately 1-1/8 inch from the bottom with the straight pin. Angle these holes so they will form jets by pointing upward and pushing them backward. When complete, remove the pin.
- 2
  Stick the straight pin through the middle of the metal square and place a pre-cut 4-inch piece of tape over the pin and square. The pin should poke through and the sticky side of the tape should be facing down.
- 3
  Place cork on top of the pin to form a handle. Place aside for later.
- 4
  Empty 1/2 ounce of water into the aluminum can.
- 5
  Place the foam cup upside down on the top of the can. Tape the cup to the can with tape to form a seal.
- 6
  Grab the handle that you had put aside and attach with tape to the foam cup.
- 7
  Put on your goggles and hold the model engine over the heat of the Bunsen burner. When you see the engine begin to spin, it is working.

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