Oliver Evans Firecracker
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Oliver Evans Firecracker
Demonstration by Oliver Evans of the explosive power of steam produced by boiling water in a stoppered gun barrel heated in the blacksmiths forge. The stopper is ejected with a loud report like a firecracker. Oliver Evans (1755-1819), the American inventor and engineer, had been greatly impressed by this when he was 17 years old and foresaw the application of high-pressure steam to a revolutionary design of steam engine. At that time, low-pressure steam engines prevailed as many thought high pressure too dangerous. Though a wheelwright, he had shown inventive genius and had obtained a patent for a steam carriage in 1797. In 1803-4 he built two successful steam engines. These, with Trevithicks engine built at the same time, were the first high-pressure engines. He built the first fully automated flour mill and invented a machine for making card teeth for carding wool
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9223239
© SHEILA TERRY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Engineer Flour Mill High Pressure Inventor Low Pressure Steam Steam Engine Dredger Firecracker Gun Barrel Trevithick
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the incredible demonstration by Oliver Evans, the American inventor and engineer, showcasing the explosive power of steam produced by boiling water in a stoppered gun barrel heated in a blacksmith's forge. The moment when the stopper is ejected with a loud report resembling a firecracker is frozen in time, symbolizing Evans' groundbreaking vision. At just 17 years old, Evans was profoundly inspired by this spectacle and envisioned applying high-pressure steam to revolutionize steam engine design. During that era, low-pressure engines were prevalent due to concerns about the dangers associated with high pressure. However, Evans defied convention and showcased his inventive genius as he obtained a patent for a steam carriage in 1797. In 1803-4, he accomplished another remarkable feat by constructing two successful high-pressure steam engines alongside Trevithick's engine. These pioneering creations marked the birth of high-pressure engines and paved the way for future advancements in engineering. Evans' contributions extended beyond steam engines; he also constructed the first fully automated flour mill and invented an ingenious machine for manufacturing card teeth used in wool carding processes. This extraordinary print from Science Photo Library encapsulates Oliver Evans' indelible legacy as an inventor and engineer who fearlessly pushed boundaries to harness the immense potential of steam power.
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