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This experiment enables you to build a simple steam engine to demonstrate the power of steam to move something. It is an ideal science class or at-home science learning exercise. Always be sure to take precautions around steam, as it burns.

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Steps

  1. Build a Steam Power Model (Kettle and Pinwheel Method) Step 1.jpg
    1
    You will need a pinwheel and a whistling tea kettle.
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  2. Build a Steam Power Model (Kettle and Pinwheel Method) Step 2.jpg
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    Boil water in the tea kettle.
  3. Build a Steam Power Model (Kettle and Pinwheel Method) Step 3.jpg
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    When the water is boiling, the steam in the kettle will make the kettle whistle.
  4. Build a Steam Power Model (Kettle and Pinwheel Method) Step 4.jpg
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    Using an oven mitt to protect your hand, hold the pinwheel in the the escaping steam.
  5. Build a Steam Power Model (Kettle and Pinwheel Method) Step 5.jpg
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    The steam should make the pinwheel spin.
  6. Build a Steam Power Model (Kettle and Pinwheel Method) Step 6.jpg
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    Try holding the pinwheel at different angles to see which position works best.
  7. Build a Steam Power Model (Kettle and Pinwheel Method) Step 7.jpg
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    To build enough pressure in the tea kettle, you may need to funnel the steam into a smaller opening. (Make a small hot container and attach it to the mouth of the kettle where steam exits with a pipe. In this cylinder the the stream become dry and build a useful pressure)
  8. Build a Steam Power Model (Kettle and Pinwheel Method) Step 8.jpg
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    Mount a pinwheel on the mouth of the hot cylinder so that the steam blows onto it.
  9. Build a Steam Power Model (Kettle and Pinwheel Method) Step 9.jpg
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    You can make a metal pinwheel out of a disposable aluminum pie tin. (You may have to make metal blades for the pinwheel, if it has paper or plastic blades. If so, cut the new blade unit out of a soda can with scissors, and bend the blades to shape.)
  10. Build a Steam Power Model (Kettle and Pinwheel Method) Step 10.jpg
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    Put the kettle with the attached pinwheel on fire or heat. Bring it to boil.
  11. Build a Steam Power Model (Kettle and Pinwheel Method) Step 11.jpg
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    Watch the blade spin around. Record what you see as part of your experiment.
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Tips

  • If you have a camera, it can be helpful to record this happening as part of your project presentation.

Warnings

  • Don't burn yourself! Live steam is invisible, and very hot.
  • The edges of a cut soda can are sharp, and can cut you; be careful when handling.

Things You'll Need

  • Kettle
  • Water
  • Blade
  • Stove
  • Fire extinguisher or fire blanket in case it catches on fire

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Article Info

Categories: Model Making | Science for Kids

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