World's first steam locomotive - GIF

[Jon]

World's first steam locomotive. Replica of Richard Trevithick's 1802 design.




More: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Trevithick

Previously:

The man at the controls of the world's largest steam locomotive - photo
Locomotive wheelslip - video
Locomotive turntable - GIF
1880s derailed steam locomotive - photo
1920s submarine pulled by locomotive - photos
Locomotive dropped during delivery - video
Big Boy locomotive under steam
Locomotive sandbox spraying sand on rails for traction - GIF
steam locomotive drag racing
World's fastest steam locomotive - photos

[Fluffle-Valve]

Brilliant.

[mklotz]

It would appear that fuel, probably coal, is loaded via the door in the front of the locomotive (the end opposite where the driver stands). The tender carrying the fuel would have to be in front of the engine, an awkward design. Perhaps this was a proof of concept design to evaluate the engine and power transmission components. A smaller and heavier flywheel could replace the giant and match its moment of inertia but perhaps the fabrication of such a design was beyond the abilities of the machine shops of the time.

Regardless, to design and build something of this engineering complexity in 1802 is proof positive of Trevithick's genius. His statue should be erected on the Fourth Plinth in Trafalgar square.