Steamed Up

[Jolly]

Was talking with a guy who is a master mechanic, a machinist, an entrepreneur and a bit of an inventor. He's very good at thinking out of the box.

Recent conversation revolved around farm tractors and steam engines. I was wondering if steam could be viable on the farm again, given modern technology.

His thoughts? New steam engines are fairly efficient and could use a firebox that can burn crop waste. Why not set up your steam engine to charge battery banks? After all, steam engines have a slower, but very steady RPM and would work well with the right kind of generator.

Instead of a steam tractor, use steam to help power the battery-powered tractor, farm truck or combine.

I thought that was brilliant...

[Mik]

Certainly worth looking into. But I wonder about the carbon footprint.

[George K]

Knowing just a little about steam engines, the maintenance on them is horrific.

But a great idea, to be sure.