Had some interesting thoughts this morning in the shower regarding this modular, low-tech Carnutt furnace project. I need to look into phase-change salts again.
Also, I understand that the target heat exchanger needs to be insulated from the exterior so that it won't suffer heat loss due to the ambient and the wind. Especially given a hemispherical target like we want, I wonder if we want the underside protected as well. how much energy loss will that introduce? Is it worth it? So many questions and tests to run. I think the hemispherical target should be shaped to fit a Pyrex mixing bowl. How's that for low-tech?
I was also wondering about the cold return line. All the systems I see use a pump system. I wonder if there is some sort of pressurized or convection system that could be used to assist in this and reduce reliance on such an energy losing venture. Perhaps if there is a ready supply of pressurized cold water (from a water tower or municipal system), a series of one way valves (or tesla style 'valvular conduits'?!?!) could be introduced to boost the cold side, while the post-turbine condenser collected water could be used to complement other passive heat extraction systems (hot water heat for a house, maybe).
The problem with this design trend is that it moves the system away from a self-contained system. On the other hand, it seems smart to use whatever benefits are available, and allow the system to run at a potentially lower, but self-contained mode when necessary.
Lots of CAD to finish up this weekend.
Also, need to find a cheap/free source for used/garbage Hard drives. Will reclaim their platters, magnets and motors, and use the casings for smelting.
(As an aside, why aren't houses designed to use DC voltage throughout? Sheesh.)
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment