The steam engine was used in many industrial settings, especially mining, where the first engines pumped water from deep workings. Early mills had run successfully with water power, but by using a steam engine a factory could be located anywhere, not just near water.

Where was the steam engine mostly used?

Large steam engines were used in factories and mills to power machines of all types. Smaller steam engines were used in transportation including trains and steamboats.

Where and when was the steam engine used?

In 1712, Thomas Newcomen's atmospheric engine became the first commercially successful engine using the principle of the piston and cylinder, which was the fundamental type of steam engine used until the early 20th century. The steam engine was used to pump water out of coal mines.