On some steam locomotives, what are the purpose of the vertical plates which stick out either side from the front of the boiler, a bit like cheeks? Example picture.
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They provide a vertical updraft to lift the smoke higher. Keeps the passengers happy and soot-free. Lots of names for them, but most common non-slang term is ‘smoke deflector’.
ETA: North American rail terminology. Your Mileage Will Vary across the pond.
Good question!
Here’s another photo.
A couple of years ago I became very interested in steam locomotives and studied in depth the Walschaert valve gear and others. This very question ocurred to me and I never found the answer which, now, seems obvious.
huh, I learned something today. I guess I can go home.
Smoke deflectors is correct.
Over here, most steam train enthusiasts will remember them as ‘blinkers’.
Common slang over here is ‘elephant ears’.