atmospheric engine

American  

noun

1. an early form of single-acting engine in which the power stroke is provided by atmospheric pressure acting upon a piston in an exhausted cylinder.

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Etymology

Origin of atmospheric engine

First recorded in 1815–25

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

atmospheric engine

Question.—Who invented the atmospheric engine, and how was it constructed?

From The Stoker's Catechism by Connor, W. J.

Some crude engines were made in Watt's time, the best being that of Thomas Newcomen, called an atmospheric engine, and used in raising water from coal-mines.

From Lives of Poor Boys Who Became Famous by Bolton, Sarah K.

At the second Parisian International Exhibition, 1867, an atmospheric engine, invented by Otto & Langen about this time, was shown.

From Gas and Oil Engines, Simply Explained An Elementary Instruction Book for Amateurs and Engine Attendants by Runciman, Walter C.

In 1864 Otto's atmospheric engine was invented, in which a heavily-loaded piston was forced upward by an explosion of gas and air drawn in at atmospheric pressure.

From Scientific American Supplement, No. 508, September 26, 1885 by Various

We find in 1752 a Mr. Champion of Bristol applied the atmospheric engine to raise water to drive a number of wheels for working machinery in a brasswork, in other words, a foundry.

From Lectures on Popular and Scientific Subjects by John Sutherland Sinclair, Earl of Caithness