Which locomotive steam engines have the highest efficiency?

The four-cylinder “Argentina” is the most efficient steam locomotive ever built.

How efficient are steam locomotives?

The efficiency of the steam locomotive has been given as 11 percent and that of the electric locomotive as about 20 percent. Neither value compares favorably with the 28 percent estimated for diesel locomotives, the ratios being 1.82 for electric/steam, 1.4 for diesel/electric, and 2.55 for diesel steam traction.

How effective is a steam engine?

As the steam cools, it’s recycled back into the system and reheated. By zealously reusing every possible bit of heat, steam engines can convert up to 46 percent of incoming energy into torque. Most gas-powered internal combustion engines, in contrast, are only about 25 percent efficient.

How far could a steam locomotive go before needing water?

During the very early days of steam locomotives, water stops were necessary every 7–10 miles (11-16 km) and consumed much travel time. With the introduction of tenders (a special car containing water and fuel), trains could run 100–150 miles (160–240 km) without a refill.

What’s the top speed of a steam locomotive?

Steam locomotives, by contrast, get their peak horsepower at higher speeds — about 40 miles per hour. “Initial computer simulations suggest that the CSR’s modern steam engine will significantly out-accelerate a modern diesel-electric locomotive to 110 mph,” according to the coalition’s website. …

What are the benefits of modern steam locomotives?

These technologies work to improve overall thermal efficiency of modern steam locomotives while at the same time reducing maintenance cost and improving reliability.

How is the efficiency of a steam engine?

It would have to be a very well designed and built steam locomotive to get more than 7 or 8% efficiency. Very little of the energy prouced from combustion is turned into mechanical force, most of it goes up the stack.

Which is the largest duplex steam locomotive ever built?

The PRR S1 featured a rigid frame and was the only duplex locomotive built with a 6-4-4-6 wheel arrangement. This steam locomotive was built with a 2-8-8-8-2 wheel arrangement.