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

[Ken Boak]

Harmon,

I must agree to differ on your opinions regarding the simplicity of 
implementing steam technology.  Domestic heating systems are going to be low 
pressure steam, and not the 50 PSI plus needed for efficient engine running.

Whilst there are risks with experimenting all forms of alternative energy, 
gasification included,  I consider that steam engineering is best left to 
the experts.

Most of the problems occur when the heat source is from solid fuel and 
cannot be quickly and easily regulated.  This could be solved by using a 
more controllable liquid or gas  fired burner.   You have to be able to 
cntrol steam pressure and temperature and cannot afford these tofluctualte 
widely. Doble solved these problems in the 1920s with an electromechanical 
control system.

A monotube boiler used in conjunction with a controllable woodgas burner, 
running a uniflow engine at constant load is probably the most likely route 
to success with small scale steam.

Personally, my current interests are in the dual fuelling of slow peed 
diesel engines,  a route that I have chosen, mainly because the engines are 
available in the right size for my household application.

I'm not saying it can't be done, but it is not going to be easy. Always 
choose the path of least resistance.


Ken