Steam Engine Lubricator

The necessity or great advantage of having the interior of an engine cylinder and steam chest lubricated, is well known. It greatly reduces friction and wear, and prevents rust when the engine is temporarily inactive. It's strange to say that no adequate means has heretofore been devised to steadily effect this operation. The advent, therefore, of a meritorious device can well be welcomed by engineers of all classes and departments, as it provides for an economical and steady influx of oil directly into the live steam pipe leading to the cylinder.

This lubricator consists of a steam pipe provided with an upper and a lower branch, between which are interposed and connected the oil reservoir of cylindrical form. A sight tube is also provided, indicating at all times the stage of the oil supply. The oil cylinder is surrounded with a jacket, and the annular space is also in communication with the live steam and keeps the lubricant in a thoroughly liquid state, even if it be tallow. It will also be understood that the steam pressure above and below is balanced, and the oil is practically as free as in open air. The outlet, or rather the inlet to the steam pipe is regulated by a valve, and the lubricant passes out in occasional drops, which are taken up and thoroughly diffused by the steam over the entire working surface. This is the most valuable working device in its line that has yet been devised, and it would seem that no further improvement is needed.