[Stoves] Green steam engine

[David G. LeVine]

>     When the steam is simply exhausted to atmosphere while running a 
> generator, for example, efficiency is relatively low; in the area of 
> 15%. When the exhaust is condensed and recycled back to the boiler, 
> the efficiency is around 24% to 30%. When the exhaust is condensed 
> through a heat exchanger whereby the condensation process is used 
> fully by heating water, space and distilling water, for example, the 
> efficiency can be in the 70% range.
> In addition to the potential for efficient energy use and production, 
> the designs' simplicity, economy and weight more than justifies its 
> utilization. It is important to note that utilizing free or cheap fuel 
> makes efficiency less important. There are numerous reasons that this 
> design is considerably more efficient than standard historical steam 
> engines.

Somehow, I disbelieve.

The best combined cycle turbines run in the 60% region.  Boilers are 
never 100% efficient, nor are burners.  Feedwater recovery systems are 
never 100% efficient.

Given there appears to be no way to prevent heat losses to the 
atmosphere in the units shown, that loss must also exist.  Even the best 
bearing assemblies have some loss.  It looks like the SYSTEM losses will 
greatly exceed the ENGINE losses.  Overall efficiency will not be in the 
70% range, but closer to 10% of that.

Can anyone with the necessary background confirm my fears?

Dave  8{)

-- 

"A word to the wise ain't necessary - it's the stupid ones that need the 
advice."

Bill Cosby