3-009-028 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The International Exhibition: blowing-engine in the Belgian Department of the Western Annexe, 1862. Machine for '...reducing iron ore to pig metal...As iron-furnaces have increased in size and number, the resistance and shock on the blast-pumps at each change of stroke have increased also. Much has been done to lessen the concussions which are repeated so often each minute. [This] beautiful blast-engine, with horizontal steam-cylinder and air-pumps...will explain the improvements alluded to. It will be seen that, instead of employing valves such as have heretofore been used, metal discs, revolving upon smooth and accurate surfaces, are adopted, and, at the point when the pumps are on the change of stroke, the numerous openings in the several discs which correspond with the perforations of the plates on which they revolve are then in a state of adjustment, to allow the air to enter and also to be emitted from the cylinders to the blast-pipe at each stroke of the steam-engine. These engines are worthy of attention because they indicate the great labour and judgment now bestowed on the construction of machines, and the great adaptation of their several parts to the purposes required'. From "Illustrated London News", 1862.