Do steam engines recycle water?
Instead of returning the condensate water to the boiler, the hot compressed condensate is passed through a heat exchanger to return heat to the boiler, then released as clean drinking water. It is one of the most efficient processes used to desalinate water.
Did steam engines need water?
A steam engine requires a combustible fuel and a supply of water. On most steam locomotives the fuel and water are carried in a separate car, the tender, behind the locomotive.
Are steam engines eco friendly?
For generations this has been a regular sight for passengers and trainspotters alike but, as you can well imagine, steam trains are not the most eco-friendly vehicles in the world. These magnificent engines are the quintessential US train, but have one very unique difference – they are run on vegetable oil.
Where does the water go in a steam engine?
Water is carried in the tender in a tank surrounding the coal. The water passes to the locomotive through a device called an injector. By spreading the coal evenly throughout the firebox, the fireman creates a level fire above the grates. Air flows up through the grates allowing the coal to burn hotter.
Why condensate steam is recirculated to boiler?
At the end of a steam power cycle, the steam is condensed to water. A condensate pump recirculation water valve controls the bypass flow from the pump outlet back to the condenser, preventing overheating and cavitation in the pump. …
What does a condenser do on a steam engine?
A surface condenser is a water-cooled shell and tube heat exchanger installed to condense exhaust steam from a steam turbine in thermal power stations. These condensers are heat exchangers which convert steam from its gaseous to its liquid state at a pressure below atmospheric pressure.
How often did a steam engine need water?
every 7–10 miles
During the very early days of steam locomotives, water stops were necessary every 7–10 miles (11-16 km) and consumed much travel time. With the introduction of tenders (a special car containing water and fuel), trains could run 100–150 miles (160–240 km) without a refill.
How much water did a steam locomotive carry?
The T class 4-4-4-4 duplex locomotives were equipped with Class 180-P-84 tenders that carried 19,200 gallons of water and 42.5 tons of coal (221 tons total weight). The S-1 class 6-4-4-6 duplex locomotive was equipped with the same class tender but with 24,230 gallons of water and 26 tons of coal capacity.
Did steam engines pollute?
The advent of the steam locomotive and railroad also saw the start of major pollution caused by big business, which is all too often seen today. The most direct pollution problem created by the locomotive was the carbon dioxide emitted into the atmosphere. It gave way to poor air quality and poor living conditions.
Are steam engines clean?
Steam engines of course burn coal, and coal is dirty. There is no way it can be “cleaned” on board a train. But nor is generating electricity entirely carbon-free. The total amount of carbon at issue is minimal, and almost all its pollution is outside towns.
What is difference between steam and condensate?
Condensate is the liquid formed when steam passes from the vapor to the liquid state. In a heating process, condensate is the result of steam transferring a portion of its heat energy, known as latent heat, to the product, line, or equipment being heated.