Nasmyth, << NAY smihth, >> James (1808-1890), a Scottish engineer, invented the steam hammer in 1839. His steam hammer was able to forge large parts for steamships and railroads. He also developed the self-acting principle in machine-tool design, by which a mechanically held tool moves along a track and works on a stationary workpiece. Using this principle, Nasmyth invented a planing mill and a nut-shaping machine.
Nasmyth was born on Aug. 19, 1808, in Edinburgh. In 1829, he became assistant to Henry Maudslay, a tool designer and manufacturer. In 1834, he started the Bridgewater Foundry at Manchester, which became famous for machine-tool and steam-engine construction. Nasmyth retired in 1856 and devoted his time to studying astronomy. He died on May 7, 1890.
