The Stephenson's Rocket Stirling Engine

Powered by an external combustion Stirling engine, this is the fully operational locomotive that pays homage to locomotive pioneer Robert Stephenson. Winning the Rainhill Trials in 1829 thanks to its advanced design, the Rocket won Stephenson the contract to make locomotives for the Liverpool and Manchester Railway—it served as the template for most steam engines for 150 years thereafter. Made in Germany from machine-tooled solid brass, stainless steel, and aluminum, this working model uses the thermodynamic principle of a regenerative heat engine—put to its first practical use in 1818 by Robert Stirling—powered by the expansion and compression of air. An alcohol burner in the rear heats a cylinder; a quick flip of its brass flywheel sets the engine’s displacement and working pistons into motion. The resulting expansion and contraction of heated and cooled air inside the pistons operates twin connecting rods which drive its two 3"-diameter rubber-bound front wheels. Non-toxic exhaust from a full burner of ethyl alcohol allows 15 minutes of operation. Includes 12 pieces of G-gauge track that forms an circle; will also roll on tables and countertops without track. 7 3/4" L x 2 3/4" W x 5 1/2" H. (2 lbs.)