Published around 1920 by the Locomotive Superheater Company, Data Book for Engineers was a compact technical handbook created for engineers working with locomotives, boilers, and other steam-powered equipment.

The company marketed its equipment under the name Elesco, derived from the initials “L.S. Co.” Its specialty was superheating—raising the temperature of steam beyond its saturation point before sending it to an engine.

Superheated steam contains more usable energy and is less likely to condense inside an engine’s cylinders. This can improve efficiency, increase power, reduce fuel and water consumption, and lessen moisture-related wear. These benefits made superheaters especially important to steam locomotives and other high-demand steam systems.

The handbook provided engineers with technical information, diagrams, tables, formulas, and operating data related to superheated steam and its practical use. Its compact format made it a convenient reference for calculations and engineering decisions in the office, workshop, or field.

Displayed in the Power Mechanical Steam Museum, this book represents the growing use of scientific data to improve steam-system performance during the early 20th century. It also demonstrates how manufacturers supported engineers by providing the technical information needed to apply new equipment effectively.