model steam engine design

[insideman]

I am designing a small model steam engine. It has two single acting cylinders on a closed crankcase. 3/4" bore X 3/4" stroke. I want to include cylinder jackets with full boiler pressure steam. This may mean that the working steam will be somewhat superheated. The design is semi-uniflow, with pressure dumped at the end of the power stroke and any residual steam exhausted by normal slide valve operation.

The question is: Do I need a lubricator? Two turn of the century references tell me that no lbricator is needed, lubrication will be taken care of by slight oil transfered from the pistons and valve rod. However, they were thinking of somewhat different engines.

I am considering a displacement lubricator, but feel that it would have some fairly serious probelems too.

 

[ornerynorsk]

I remember reading an article about lubricators once in "Live Steam" magazine. I no longer have that issue, just wanted to offer a thought on a possible search place.

 

[plasgears]

Steam engine cylinder lube used to be made from animal fats. Cylinder lubes are noted for low friction. Today's versions are synthetically formulated. Another clue is to look for worm gear lube. Check the Plant Engineering Magazine (DesPlaines, IL) annual feature on interchangeable lubes. They also have an annual synthetic lube listing.

 

[smcadman]

Go to this forum and look for the "Live Steam" forum:

http://www.chaski.com/ubb/ubbthreads.php

and post your question there for some more answers.

Flores

 

[insideman]

Thanks for all the helpful respoinses. I put an inquiry on the chaski site and got several thoughtful replies......