Steam traction engines make many appearances throughout the state over the summer months as they travel to various antique tractor shows and celebrations. However, one may not realize the hard work and focus on safety that go into operating these large pieces of machinery.
Jeff Bloemers is the Steam School Contact with the Wisconsin Historical Steam Engine Association. He shares more about what it takes to get a steam traction engine running and how the association works to promote safety in all aspects of operation.
Bloemers shares that there are anywhere from 200-400 steam traction engines across Wisconsin. He adds that for each functional steam engine, there are about 3 or 4 people who are capable of operating one.
He goes on to explain that the first step to getting a steam traction engine running is building up a head of steam. Full size steam traction engines hold 200-300 gallons of water that have to be brought up to the boiling point. Someone is responsible for maintaining water levels because if they fall too low, an explosion is possible.
To help folks stay safe, steam traction engines that are shown publicly must be inspected by the State. The WHSEA also works to promote safety by holding an annual Steam School each September that teaches students how to operate the machinery and follow safe practices.
For more information about the WHSEA and their Steam School, visit whsea.org.
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