Is Home Steam Power Generation Viable?
Many alternative power sources are today becoming increasingly popular as electricity grids across the globe come under increasing pressure. Home electricity generation makes sense because it removes some of the burden from the national grid and provides a backup when the grid fails to provide the electricity needed for the functioning of the average home. One of the most recent alternative power generation methods to make a comeback is home steam power generation. Steam power is pervasive in almost all industrial power supply plants. From those powered by coal, to nuclear plants all rely on the heating of water to turn turbines which then supply power to the national grid, but only recently has the option of a home turbine powered by steam become popular. In order to understand how this option becomes a viable one it is necessary to have a layman’s understanding of how the power generation cycle works.
So, how does steam power work? At its most simple steam power relies on a fuel source (in industrial power generation this source can be fossil fuel, for instance coal or oil), which is burned in a furnace, a boiler where the water is heated to boiling point, and an engine which produces the power required. A simple home steam power generation setup can use a variety of fuel sources, from a simple wood log, to oil or even gasoline. There are several types of steam power generators, from the most simple fire tube boiler (the oldest and most dangerous to use) to the water tube boiler which is safe and easy to build and finally the monotube or flash boiler which is the safest of the three and the most efficient. To decide which is best for home steam power generation, a simple search for this term on the Internet will bring up contacts who will be able to supply comprehensive information on which solution is best for your needs. An alternative to getting the answers that you need is to attend a steam club show. There are literally thousands held during the year throughout the United States. Chances are there’s one happening in your area fairly soon. Any hobby shop owner should be able to give you the information you need about upcoming shows.
As with any home power generation device, be it a small portable generator or a solar power array steam power has its pros and cons. As a project building steam power generators can be a fulfilling pastime, the finished product will significantly reduce power bills and the steam itself can be used for heating purposes. However although modern steam generators are significantly safer than their older cousins, high temperature steam can be explosive and the sheer temperature of the steam can cause severe injury. Before undertaking the installation of a steam generator always get expert advice and guidance.
Home steam power generation is a viable alternative energy source which is gaining popularity in both rural and urban setting, however it should be noted that the production of steam is not as eco friendly as (for example) solar power as it relies on the burning of either fossil (or fossil derived) fuel or wood. Let your sense of adventure and conscience guide you when undertaking the installation of a home steam generator.
