@christopher_brashar posted this picture. Could you model this?
I’ve looked at that before. I could probably model it. I’ll add it to my list.
1 Like
Based on the above, I believe that -if you wanted to- you could model a steam-powered hot dog roller and cheese grater.
Thank you! Have you been looking at my list of future models? 
And still a very long way to go. There are a lot of small parts. I’m glad I’m not bothering with screw threads.
You can get to a full size version here.
6 Likes
Lack of realism? Make sure you put at least 96 segments to the circles you use for rivet heads! 
3 Likes
I might go back someday and add the screw threads. 
1 Like
pfff
the lack of seriousness in some people revolts me…
(this is gorgeous !)
2 Likes
Ha! Screw threads are such simple things and I’ve done enough to get bored with them. 
2 Likes
Front wheel drive
And anti-gravity rear end.
1 Like
Fabulous ! How big is this monster ? Seen some restored ones that are huge.
There are some big ones out there. This is based on plans for a model traction engine. The front tires are only 228 mm dia.
I presume this one would be about the same size as the one in this photo from the Western Minnesota Steam Threshers Reunion.
Or maybe this one:
5 Likes
First thought was a steam locomotive. But it’s a bit short in length.
So a steam tractor or stationary engine?
Edit, then I scrolled down. duh.
Side tracked from the traction engine.
Started out as an example showing how to get both color and gray scale views (with textures) of the model in LayOut and then, since the model was open, a demonstration of Clothworks.
12 Likes
Very nice 
Thankee sir.
1 Like
Just reading this thread is addictive… let alone the desire to build mechanical things on SU. How long does it take you to do one of the smaller engines? From the quantity you’ve created, you must be very, very fast. I had asked about creating the convex internal fillets months ago, but am still not comfortable with doing it. I think I’m a pretty good machine draftsperson in SU (the Iowa turret project), but then I look at your work and realize just how far I have to go. You are a treasure!
When I was a younger man I wanted to actually machine and build a working model steam engine. And a really long time ago (1975) when I was a metal shop teacher, I had a team of students actually do it. Not only did they machine the parts to make a working vertical single cylinder engine, they made the wood patterns for the castings as well. It was pinnacle of my public education tenure before I migrated to training in industry.
Steam engines are fun because all their working innards are on their outsides.
3 Likes
Thank you for the kind words.
The smaller steam engines didn’t really take all that lont to do. I usually spend more time screwing around with creating the images, I think. I’d like to think I have a fairly streamlined and efficient modeling flow that makes the modeling go pretty quickly.
I think it’s pretty cool that you were able to have students make the patterns and parts for a steam engine. I’t’s a shame that high school students don’t get those kind of opportunities these days. There’s still some value in understanding those processes and even in how a steam engine works.
Indeed! Infernal combustion engines are kind of boring because you usually can’t see what’s making all the noise.
1 Like