smoke
box
Plural
smokeboxes
1
a part of a steam engine where smoke and gases from burning fuel exit into the atmosphere
A smokebox is a part of a steam locomotive that collects and channels exhaust gases from the firebox to the chimney. It is typically located at the front of the boiler and helps direct the smoke and hot gases away from the train. The smokebox also contains a series of tubes, known as the flue tubes, that allow the hot gases to pass through and transfer heat to the water in the boiler, helping to generate steam. The design of the smokebox helps maintain proper airflow, ensuring the engine operates efficiently while keeping the air around the train cleaner.
- The locomotive's smokebox was designed to efficiently expel smoke and steam generated by its engine.
- Engineers regularly inspected the smokebox to ensure that it remained free of debris and in proper working order.
- During its journey, the old steam train emitted nostalgic puffs of smoke from its smokebox.
- The smokebox door rattled as the fireman stoked the fire to build up steam pressure.
- After the long journey, the maintenance crew cleaned out the smokebox to prepare the locomotive for its next run.