what is know of the steam powered wellington bomber of 1942?

Answer 1

the Wellington went through various engine changes throughout the war, but none of them were steam powered. Steam engines have a huge weight to power ratio. It would not be practical to even attempt to power a twin engine bomber with steam engines.

Answer 2

Your question rang a tiny bell of memory for me, probably something I picked up in my early years of flying. So, I went hunting for the info. Came up with nothing but anecdotal evidence, but it seems there was indeed an attempt to covert a few of the Wellingtons to steam. One account says that 3 were converted. The first blew up on take-off one day, the second ran out of fuel and crashed in the Atlantic, the third ran out of water and went into some lake. A second account I read was unbelievable and I discount that one, other than it is a bit more smoke to indicate a fire. Was there really such a craft? Possibly. Security classification of the day makes it difficult to know.

Answer 3

The only attempt at a steam plane I know of was the Besler Steam Plane ( a converted Travelair 2000) which flew in 1933. Due to using water faster than oil the idea didn't "take off". Of note though was taht it apparently was virtually silent!

Answer 4

By steampowered, in this instance you obviously mean old or
ancient! It was a useful tool, two engined, but superceeded by the more powerful 4 engined Lancaster bomber. The wellington
was designed by barnes Wallace, (later sir) who designed the
bouncing bomb and the earthquake bombs Tallboy & grandslam
Perhaps you would like to peruse the following website.
http://www.britishaircraft.co.uk/ Best wishes from the
"old Country"

Answer 5

I'd love to hear more about this. It is extremely improbable.

Answer 6

AIN'T NO SETCH A CRITTER (BUT IF IT CULD BE BILT, A LIMEY WULD DO IT!)