ALTERNATIVE ENERGY FORUM - etc.

Solar => Solar energy => Topic started by: CG on June 26, 2021, 11:57:24 am

Title: Solar as alternate energy
Post by: CG on June 26, 2021, 11:57:24 am
Since I practically have no wind anymore, my only option for alternate energy is solar or heat differentials.
But solar is not much fun. Wind turbines are fun to build and test. Try building your own solar collector. You just purchase most of the components then plug it all in.
The other option, heat engines, could be fun.
I would like to make a large, LTD heat engine and use the temperature differential between my cold pond and a solar collector. Big project.
Title: Re: Solar as alternate energy
Post by: Caleb on June 26, 2021, 12:37:20 pm
I started work on a large low temperature Stirling engine, but abandoned the project and scrapped it because it was taking up space and I lost interest.  I wanted to use it as a teaching tool in Thermodynamics, but now I don't teach anymore.

https://www.bitchute.com/video/ThEy9gQ2xFku/
https://www.bitchute.com/video/XcOFgnbY1cDz/
https://www.bitchute.com/video/z0mUuL3BTf5N/

Basically, to get usable power from a low temperature difference would take a lot of heat transfer (so I used small radiators) and volume.
Title: Re: Solar as alternate energy
Post by: CG on June 26, 2021, 12:47:18 pm
I remember that project.  I would have liked to see it run.
You're still teaching me. ;D
Title: Re: Solar as alternate energy
Post by: Caleb on June 26, 2021, 01:21:39 pm
I'm getting to that point where I don't know whether to retire or not (turned 58 this year).  The kids still keep me busy and I don't think I could work full time, but they are getting older ( 13 and 15 ) and can handle themselves more.  My wife thinks I ought to look for part time work, but I don't know if anyone wants a part time engineer.  I would like to work around other people instead of working from home.  I've been out of industry for so long, I don't really feel like teaching.  I'd like more recent practical experience.  Anyhow, that is probably too much information.
Title: Re: Solar as alternate energy
Post by: CG on June 28, 2021, 11:16:12 am
Lol
I think Caleb Engineering ought to do consulting.
Title: Re: Solar as alternate energy
Post by: Caleb on June 28, 2021, 06:45:46 pm
I closed that business.  :-)