My model steam engines built from bar stock
About 4 years ago I started attending the North American Model Engineering Society (NAMES) expo in Wyandotte Michigan each April. There are always lots of machine tool vendors there that cater to the hobbyist like myself and there are usually a few clock related models being displayed. The bulk of the models there are all types of model engines and I became fascinated with the complexity and craftsmanship on display at the expo. Eventually, after talking to many of the machinists displaying their engines I decided I should try and build a simple engine. After completing the first engine I thought I should try to build one a bit more complex... and as they say I was off to the races. Below are the engines I have built so far in the order I built them. I am about to start on my 4th engine which will be more challenging but I want to improve my skills. All of the engines I have built (so far) are from bar stock and do not use castings.
If you would like more information about building any of these engines feel free to Contact me.
Click on any of the photos for a larger view.
A Twin Vertical Wobbler designed by Elmer Verburg
This engine is from chapter 2 of the book Elmer's Engines. It is a simple 2 cylinder stationary wobbler engine.
A Scotch Yoke Drive Engine designed by Elmer Verburg
This engine is called a Scotty and is from chapter 8 in the book Elmer's Engines. it is a very small engine using a scotch yoke.
Pip-Squeak Engine designed Bill Reichart
A single cylinder wobbler engine. This engine is quite a bit larger than the first two.
Horizontal Mill Engine designed by Elmer Verberg
This engine uses a slide valve and an eccentric to control the double acting cylinder. It also has a reverse function. Since it is a double acting cylinder it is more efficient and will run on less air (or steam) pressure.