Info Wanted: Haystack/Beehive boiler plans

I would be interested in seeing plans for making the dome on a haystack or beehive boiler that might have been appropriate to engines like the Boulton & Watt bellcrank condensing engine of 1802 in The Science Museum, London. In terms of size, the model of the engine will have a flywheel of about 8" OD. I am looking for nuts & bolts plans that will aid in fabricating a model replica of the dome and whatever other parts of the boiler would be visible in an external view. As a model, the boiler exterior will be a dummy, housing some modern air- or steam-supply hidden within.

-Marty, in Owl's Head, Maine, USA-

Hello Martin,

Welcome to the forum.

Search Google Books for Stuart's Descriptive History of the Steam Engine. There are numerous plates that should provide all the information you need. These early engravings tend to be quite accurate both dimensionally and in terms of the working principles. It's dated 1831, but it goes back a long way. Be warned you may get lost in it for days...

Neil

Neil

As an interested party, I am making Anthony Mount's model of a Boulton & Watt Bellcrank engine, I have just had a quick look at Stuart's Descriptive History of the Steam Engine. Fascinating but it deals with engines not boilers. [I have to say I have not looked at all the illustrations since my internet download speed is so, so slow].

Martin, as a suggestion, it may be worth looking at the Newcomen Society Archives. If you are not a member you will be charged for downloads. If you find anything please let me know since I am.

JA

Edited By JA on 04/03/2017 20:15:05