Corliss steam engine

Also known as: Corliss engine

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Last updated

July 23, 2026

Quick Summary

The Corliss steam engine, developed by George Henry Corliss, was a significant advancement in steam engine technology during the Industrial Revolution. Corliss introduced key improvements, most notably the Corliss valve, which featured separate inlet and exhaust ports. He also incorporated springs to enhance the speed of valve operation.1

The Corliss Engine Company, founded in 1856, produced a powerful 1,400-horsepower engine that was used to drive all the machinery at the Philadelphia Centennial Exhibition in 1876. This engine represented a major step forward in power technology during a period of rapid industrial and technological change.12

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George Henry Corliss
…inventor and manufacturer of the Corliss steam engine. His many improvements to the steam engine included principally the Corliss valve, which had separate inlet and exhaust ports, and he introduced springs to speed the opening and closing of valves. His Corliss Engine Co. (founded 1856) supplied the 1,400-horsepower engine that…
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…inventor and manufacturer of the Corliss steam engine. His many improvements to the steam engine included principally the Corliss valve, which had separate inlet and exhaust ports, and he introduced springs to speed the opening and closing of valves. His Corliss Engine Co. (founded 1856) supplied the 1,400-horsepower engine that…
Read More