Date context
1736–1819
Instrument work and steam engines
Born in Greenock, Scotland, Watt trained in instrument-making and worked in Glasgow. Repairing a model Newcomen engine brought its operating inefficiencies to his attention. His research therefore began with difficulties in existing machinery rather than a wholly unprecedented machine.
References: [3]
Moving condensation to another vessel
Newcomen engines condensed steam inside the working cylinder, which then had to be reheated. Watt moved condensation into a separate cool vessel so the cylinder could remain hot. Surviving models from 1765 document experimental stages in developing this arrangement.
A patent and continued development
A patent for the separate-condenser improvement was granted on 5 January 1769. A patent did not immediately create a finished commercial engine: sealing, machining accuracy and the manufacture of large components required further experiments and collaboration.
Partnership and practical power
During the 1770s Watt partnered with Matthew Boulton, gaining manufacturing resources for improved engines. Better fuel economy widened the circumstances in which steam power was useful. His contribution involved important improvements and commercialization within an already developing steam technology.