Marine Engineering

From the earliest days of steam through to the internal-combustion engine and gas turbine, this gallery allows your students to trace the often complex and fascinating history of marine propulsion.

Dozens of working models reveal the steady evolution of steam power, from paddle-wheeled river steamers to the mighty triple-expansion engines of the great ocean-going liners, and interactive exhibits demonstrate the operation of automatic hydraulic stabilisers and steam-powered steering mechanisms.

Your students can examine the remarkable engineering of the oldest surviving marine engine (designed by William Symington) and the original engines from the revolutionary Turbinia, which proved the superiority of steam-turbine power.