IEEC3.1 10 The Heslop Engine

The Heslop Engine

Mike Potts

An off-print from

Transactions of the 3rd International Early Engines Conference - Volume 1 pp198-208

Summary

This paper examines the development of atmospheric engines through the work of one man: Adam Heslop. In an era where the most efficient engines were protected by James Watt’s well-defended patent, there was a strong incentive for engine builders to adopt unusual designs. This work was usually carried out in provincial areas, close to the places where power was needed, and often with great secrecy. The survival of one of Heslop’s engines and its attendant documentation allows us to examine his motivation and methods, with the hope that further details will come to light of this period of pirate engines.