Watt steam engine governor, 18th century. Illustration of the centrifugal 'flyball' governor developed in 1788 by Scottish engineer James Watt (1736-1
Watt steam engine governor, 18th century. Illustration of the centrifugal 'flyball' governor developed in 1788 by Scottish engineer James Watt (1736-1819). As the amount of steam passing the governor increases, the two balls rise upwards, closing the valve and cutting off the supply of steam. This provides an automatic brake on the engine, keeping the speed within a set range. As the amount of steam falls, the balls descend, allowing the engine to speed up once more. Artwork from 'Chaudieres et Machines a Vapeur' (1911) by French civil engineer Max de Nansouty (1854-1913), part of the 'Les merveilles de la science' series of 1867-1891 by Louis Figuier.
Size: 3971px × 4854px
Photo credit: © Science Photo Library / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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