Comet - The Steam powered RC Aircraft

Steam Power

In physical chemistry, and engineering, steam refers to vaporized water. A steam engine is a heat engine that performs mechanical work using steam as its working fluid.

Construction of the Steam Powered Aircraft

I was lucky to come accross a set of copies of the drawings of the Comet , published by Mr. David Parker in the Model Engineer Magazine. The work started in 2000. I had prior experience on steam engines when I started this project. As a school boy in 1965, I had constructed an oscillating cylinder Steam Engine for a science exhibition. After leaving school, I joined an Engineering Firm where I worked in the tool room learning to operate lathe machines, milling machines, grinders etc.

My experience in flying RC Fixed Wing Models, Helicopters and Gyro copters was an added advantage to successfully complete the mission.

The Engine Construction

The engine construction started with the Base Plate and moved on to other items

Cylinder and Port Block

Completed Port Block Soldered to Cylinder

Piston, Cross Head and the O Ring

Throttle Valve Lubricator Assembly

Boiler Casing and the Fire Box

The Engine Fitted to the Boiler casing.

The Aircraft

Technical Specifications

Working Pressure (Steam)	80 psi
Propellar	13"x 8" Wooden (Electric)
RPM	3350 (max 3600)
Static Thrust	500g
Wingspan	75"
Wing Area	5.09 sq. ft.
Weight of Power Plant (Dry	735g
Water	150g (Hot Water)
Methanol	75ml
Weight Ready to Fly	1469g (52oz)
Wing Loading	11.51oz per sq. ft.
Engine Run Duration	1.5 minutes @ 3500 RPM

The Flight

The maiden flight was made on a calm day, with a steady breeze of 8 mph. The take off run was around 20 feet, and the flight duration was 4 minutes.