A steam engine consists of an external combustion engine, which modifies the thermal energy of a certain amount of water into mechanical energy. This process is carried out in two stages: to begin with, water vapor is produced, the product of heating in a completely closed boiler, this thanks to the burning of a fuel either coal or wood.
The pressurized steam is then introduced into a cylinder, pushing the piston to its full extent. This is done using a flywheel and a connecting rod mechanism; this can become a rotating element. Now, when the plunger has reached the end of its stroke, it returns again to its initial position, thus releasing the water vapor.
Steam engines were very popular during the industrial revolution, their role was very important because through them could put up machines and various equipment such as trains, marine engines, pumps, etc.
The importance of these devices lies in their intervention within what was the industrial revolution since it changed the course of the history of civilization, since as a result of the manufacture of these machines, an economic expansion was achieved, never seen in England
The first steam engines were made in Egypt by Heron of Alexandria. However, many authors have not been able to pinpoint the exact date when steam engines were invented. The authorship of these machines have wanted to be attributed to many inventors, however everything has been in vain, since the history of their evolution was full of names. From Heron's rudimentary machine to James Watt's modern machine, there have been many improvements to these artifacts over time. This has led to the original design being gradually replaced by current steam engines.
Modern steam engines have the ability to transform thermal energy into electrical energy. Today's machines generate a constant flow of water vapor, and are known as "turbines." It is important to note that due to the emergence of other technical resources, currently steam engines are only used occasionally or as a complementary element.
