Re: Driving pumps, generators, etc
Posted by:
Peter Brow (IP Logged)
Date: July 23, 2002 07:32AM
<HTML>George:
Hey, I can't take any credit/blame for long strings; I just start 'em, and you guys take off with it. My posts are only a few percent of the "problem". :) Sure is fun!
Tom:
Safety is key, and yes, 500-1000 psi superheated steam (1200 for Jim) is dangerous, no doubt about it, and don't forget high pressure fuel in some systems (including today's fuel-injected gas cars). In my designs, I don't like adding yet another source of danger. The main thing I don't like about higher voltage/hz, though, is the cost, which is why I look at things like appliance motors (or pref. 12v). But this only applies to my designs, not anybody else's. No advice, just some thoughts.
Liability Disclaimers:
I'm not advising anybody on anything. I might _suggest_ something as a possible option or consideration to investigate or discuss. All steam guys "pays their money and takes their chances". I always hope that whatever is tried will work superbly and not injure anybody. Best of luck to everyone, with anything you decide to build. Every steam success story is good for the whole hobby, not to mention downright fun.
Your results may vary, offer void where prohibited by law, do not tease Happy Fun Ball, side effects include nausea, coma, catarrh, loosie goosies, and heebie jeebies, batteries not included, ask your doctor, kids don't try this at home, and so on.
But seriously folks: safety first, last, and always. And caveat emptor. Always have charged/tested CO2 fire extinguishers handy, and use safety goggles, ear protectors (headphone type), and foundry gloves. Blankets of ceramic fiber for burner tests, hydrotest for pressure, and kinetic barriers for mechanical tests (e=mc squared). Most important, know what you're doing inside and out, work your way up to high energy states (better to blow up at low speed/pressure than high), and pay attention to _everything_ which is going on. Word to the newbies. The Safety Nut has left the building.
Peter H.:
Surplus is the way to go for fantastic advanced equipment at scrap prices or less. You wouldn't believe some of the surplus deals I've seen; get on the DoD surplus mailing list if you can. Great approach for individual one-off projects. I am designing with possible future blueprint sales or production in mind (a long way off if ever), and want supply deals which are easily repeatable. Unfortunately, this limits my options to lesser equipment in lots of ways.
I forgot what else I was going to comment on, so will post this, reread new posts, and do another "multi-post".
Peter B.</HTML>