Compounding Expansion in Steam Engines When the expansion of steam is divided among two or more cylinders (compounding), how is the overall ratio of expansion affected compared with a single-cylinder engine?

Introduction / Context:
Compounding splits the total expansion of steam into stages across multiple cylinders, for example high-pressure (HP), intermediate-pressure (IP), and low-pressure (LP). This arrangement is central to achieving high efficiency while controlling temperature drops and mechanical stresses.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Same initial and exhaust conditions as a comparable single-cylinder engine.
• Valve timing allows cut-off at suitable fractions in each cylinder.
• Receiver volumes equalise flow between cylinders.

Concept / Approach:
Splitting the expansion enables the designer to use a greater overall expansion ratio without incurring excessive condensation or large pressure drops in any one cylinder. Each cylinder handles a smaller portion of the total temperature fall. Consequently, engines can be operated with deeper expansion (higher ratio) than would be practical in a single cylinder because heat-transfer reversals and mechanical loads are moderated.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Define overall expansion ratio: r_total = V_exhaust / V_cutoff, referenced to HP cut-off and LP exhaust.With compounding, cut-off can be earlier in the HP cylinder while LP volume accommodates the expanded steam.Therefore, a higher r_total is achievable for similar reliability and efficiency.

Verification / Alternative check:
Indicator diagrams of compound engines show larger combined expansion area compared with single-cylinder engines at similar limits.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
does not change: ignores the design latitude offered by multiple cylinders.decreases: opposite of practical experience in compound and triple-expansion engines.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing per-cylinder expansion ratio (smaller) with overall ratio (larger and more feasible in practice).

Final Answer:
increases