Audrey Log

Modernized Steam Engine Project Plan

Notes from 24 Mar 2013

• Continued COTS research with Cyclone Power Technologies http://www.cyclonepower.com/technical_information.html. Excellent source for engineering solutions, though patented technology, not in FRP, no cost data. Uses deionized water vs lubricant (will this wear parts & effect reliability?) Seems to solve consensation issues; utilizes multiple heat exchangers. Additional resources:
  • http://www.iptoday.com/news-archived-article.asp?id=6239&type=tech
  • http://www.steampower.com/publications/CycloneEngineWhitePaper7-22-12.pdf
  • http://www.popsci.com/node/21610
• Researched steam technology in auto industry: BMW, Saab & Honda
  • Paper utilizing technology developed (and shelved by Saab) in the '70s from Ranotar http://www.steampower.com/publications/Ranotor2004.pdf and http://www.saabhistory.com/2008/04/04/the-nine-cylinder-saab-steam-engine/
  • BMW Concept Car: https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/pressclub/p/pcgl/pressDetail.html?title=looking-for-the-next-gram&outputChannelId=6&id=T0119738EN&left_menu_item=node__2367 and http://www.motortrend.com/features/editorial/112_0606_technologue_hybrid_qa/viewall.html
  • Honda utilizing steam in Honda Stream hybrid http://www.ecogeek.org/automobiles/1380
• Need to continue researching Cyclone's solutions.

Notes from 23 Mar 2013

• Analysis of alternatives:
  • Researched bump valve reliability, researching alternative solutions
  • Need to discuss condensation issue and air compression issue on the return stroke (sending note to M. Norton)
  • Power vs pressure: The higher the pressure, the smaller and lighter the engine (weight to power ration)...optimum pressure for SWAP requirements?? Include risk analysis (higher pressure/heat = higher safety risks), probable effect on cost. Continue researching.
• Reviewing Green Steam Engine products; available at http://greensteamengine.com/products.htm The 2 cylinder product provides 10 hp at 125 psi, 1500 rpms; drawings/instructions/hard to find parts available for purchase. Other products available via COTS: http://greensteamengine.com/ ; will make contact with POC for more info re: 3,4, and 6 cyl eng.

Notes from 22 Mar 2013

• On travel, no work performed

Notes from 21 Mar 2013

• Updated project plan general requirements/specs and better defined FMECA process
• Continued researching alternatives to issues with OSE Arrow Head Engine
• Explored differences in V-shaped layout/feasibility; assessing

Notes from 20 Mar 2013

• Contacted Mark Norton; directed to https://sites.google.com/site/phase3project/projects/steam-engine/engine-designs/ose-arrow-head-engine
• Began researching the following issues with the OSE Arrow Head Engine:
  • Water might condense in the cylinder chamber resulting in a blow-out condition
  • Power output will be low unless operated at high speed and high steam pressures
  • Bump valves are subject to wear and breakage
  • Air is compressed on the return stroke, losing valuable work
  • Horizontal layout leads to excessive wear on parts (piston rings, etc).

Notes from 19 Mar 2013

• On travel, no work performed

Notes from 18 Mar 2013

• Found Pure Energy Systems Green Steam Engine Project:
  • http://peswiki.com/index.php/Directory:Green_Steam_Engine and
  • http://greensteamengine.com/
• Found multiple potential SMEs to include members of: http://www.northweststeamsociety.org/Pages/NWSSsteamers.htm
• Outreach: Paper on community colleges and green energy development http://www.workforcestrategy.org/images/pdfs/publications/green_energy_programs_2010-05.pdf from the Work Force Strategy Center

Notes from 17 Mar 2013

• Re-baselined project focus to include work performed by Mark Norton
  • Reviewed OSE Modern Steam Engine documentation and requirements, incorporated into project plan