Savery's steam-driven water pumpIn 1698, Thomas Savery received a British patent (No. 356) for a “New Invention for Raiseing of Water and Occassioning Motion to all sorts of Mill Work by the Impellent Force of Fire.” It was the first to harness steam for pumping water, used in draining mines, serving towns or supplying water to mills. Steam in a vessel was condensed by an external spray of cold water. A partial vacuum resulted and raised water from a lower sump. As high-pressure steam refilled the vessel, the water was forced to a higher level. His major problem was containing high-pressure steam since available construction materials were weak. The 14 year term was extended to 35 by Parliament in 1699. He also held a patent for ship propulsion (No. 347, 10 Jan 1696).«[Image: diagram of Savery's Miner's Friend steam powered pump.] |
