Buy a Hero Engine from Amazon or eBay (depending on availability):
Let’s see how Hero’s Steam Engine, the first steam turbine, really works! This fascinating device was invented in the first century AD by Hero of Alexandria, a Greek-Egyptian mathematician and engineer. It’s an early example of converting steam power into mechanical motion.
How Does Hero’s Engine Spin?
The engine uses steam generated from boiling water. As the boiler heats up, steam escapes through small nozzles, producing thrust that causes the entire device to spin. This is a perfect demonstration of Newton’s Third Law of Motion—for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.
Can We Make Hero’s Engine Spin Faster?
We decided to crank up the temperature to see just how fast this steam engine could spin. Using a butane torch, we gave it a boost—oh boy, it really went! The steam’s thrust makes this small engine a powerful demonstration of early steam technology and torque generation.
If you’re interested in exploring steam power or introducing kids to basic physics concepts, Hero’s Engine is an engaging, hands-on way to see steam propulsion in action. It’s not just science, it’s an exciting bit of history that paved the way for modern engines!
If you’re interested in a different style of Hero Engine, consider this one on Amazon:
