Homemade Solar Steam Turbine Generators
Solar steam turbine generators rely on geothermal energy to steam power a turbine and use a generator to produce electricity. As long as the basic principles are followed, designs and materials are fairly flexible. Does this Spark an idea?
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Basic Process
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An external device is used to capture solar energy and either heat a liquid with a low specific heat that circulates through a heat exchanger or directly convert a refrigerant into steam. The high gas energy then drives a turbine which uses a generator to produce electricity.
Advantages
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Homemade solar steam turbine generators can produce up to 1 kilowatt of energy and 10 kilowatts of heat and can be made for less than a few thousand dollars. By hooking the generator up to a battery, the energy produced can be saved and used for home appliances. The heat energy produced can also be used for water and heating systems.
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Disadvantages
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Although steam can be recycled for use, it takes several gallons of water to produce enough steam to effectively drive a turbine. Liquids, such as naptha which have a lower boiling point than water, can be used but are toxic chemicals. A lack of adequate amounts of sunlight can also drastically affect the system.
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