[Gasification] Rebuilding engines (was Re: Charcoal Gasifier No 2.)

[Ken Boak]

Harmon, List

My last post got sent before completion.

All steam generating boilers of a certain volume and pressure need testing 
and certification.  It is a matter of common sense.  There was a fatal steam 
traction engine at a farm show a few years back.  Drivers of these vehicles 
also need to be licensed because of the  inherent risks.

I think that if you make enquiries, you will find that most States have 
pretty strict rules and legislation regarding the use of steam boilers, and 
steam equipment.

Only the monotube boiler which has a very low water volume might get past 
the boiler certification rules.

The household "Boiler" is a misleading term. Most are water heaters for 
producing hot water at around 85C.  If it did boil the water, the pressure 
vent would blow.

These systems are not intended for steam generation - they are intended to 
hold hot water at only 2 to 4 bar.

Most countries have legislation concerning pressure vessels, steam boilers 
included.   Even the model steam enthusiasts have to have their boilers 
tested and certified safe for use.

Steam does not scale down well.   A  6hp steam engine would be luck to 
achieve 5% thermal efficiency and consume vast quantities of wood or other 
fuel.    Mike Brown Solutions will sell you a 3 hp steam engine and warn you 
that you need a forest of trees to keep it running.

Steam is not a viable route for home power generation, stick to the humble 
IC engine with gasification or  methane digester.

If steam were simple, it would be cheap and everyone would be doing it.

Keep safe - avoid live steam.



Ken