Lardsenn Institute of Steam Technology

One of the most prominent research institutions in Wikhulla is the Lardsenn Institute of Steam Technology. Founded in the 6th century by the renowned steam engineer Vilhjelm Lardsenn, the institute has been at the forefront of Kiep crystal engine research for decades. The institute's researchers have made many important contributions to the field, including the development of new techniques for harnessing the sustained exothermic reaction of Kiep crystals.

In the modern age Wikhulla is mostly known for its many steel mills and enormous shipyards. Modern shipbuilding was started when Vilhjelm Lardsenn established the city's first modern iron works in 494, joined by his brother Ulf Lardsenn and five other men in 498. The business expanded to become Lardsenn Docks and would rise to the forefront of technological innovations as the Age of Steam began to spread west. Today the city sports no less than 13 docks and around 70 hulls are laid down in Wikhullan yards each year. This frenzied expansion has started to decline since the Isthmus War as the world is gripped by airship fever.