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August 17, 2005
Steam for all sizes ...
The organisers were keen to point out that their membership embraces all sizes and types of steam propelled vehicle. This was born out by the fact that some of the show tractors were too small to be ridden - but could still manage to tow a trailer with the driver and often another passenger riding along.
The variety of sizes of the working models on show at the recent Steam Rally can be seen in this picture.
The performance of even the small engines - and their ability to pull disproportionately large loads - says a great deal about the energy released when water is converted into steam! They may not be the most efficient engine in converting heat/energy into power - certainly a vast amount of the heat produced goes up the smokestack - but there can be no doubt that the 20% of that energy which is used is far more efficient than many modern internal combustion engines - if only because it is using ALL the energy from the moment you open the valve and engage the gear.
Now, if we could find a way to produce steam without wasting the heat energy we use to produce the steam ......
Posted by The Gray Monk at August 17, 2005 09:04 AM