Random questions.

['andersom']

I'm looking for the translation of a Dutch expression: "op stoom komen" literally coming on steam. Meaning the steam pressure is getting high enough to become active. Steam engine metaphor.

Is there something like that in the English language?

[Jack]

I'm looking for the translation of a Dutch expression: "op stoom komen" literally coming on steam. Meaning the steam pressure is getting high enough to become active. Steam engine metaphor.

Is there something like that in the English language?

When related to emotions, the closest English idiom can think of is reaching one's boiling point.

[Icequeen]

Blow your top.
All steamed up.

Blow off steam. (But that releases the anger)
 

['andersom']

I'm looking for a positive one. Where the engine  can go running because the pressure is just right. No leaks in the hull where steam/energy leaks. The engine can run and work will be done.

Maybe I need to put some more coal on the fire. 

[Icequeen]

Full steam ahead?

['andersom']

Getting there. 

[Pyraxis]

Coming online? Usually said in the sense of "I just had my coffee and my brain's coming online."

['andersom']

That should do, mentally, not in physical action.

Was wondering about sayings. There is the engine saying of "burning the midnight oil" of course, but that's something different again.

(Now wonders if that is about lampoil.... )

Geared up?