Cushion of steam

[juiceclark]

I was just reading about how the University of VA just beat the U of FL's record for hot plasma - 900 million degrees! That's 30X the temp. at the core of the sun. Anyway, I couldn't help but think of how little electricity is used to excite different types of plasma to high temperatures. A flourescent lightbulb is a plasma device...but the same process is used with different gases to create incredible temperatures.

Naturally, the idea of having a few plasma strips on the bottom of a vessel creating a cushion of steam on which to move rapidly/easily comes to mind. Temperatures of only a few thousand degrees would instantly vaporize water and create a cushion, because of the expansive power of steam, under any size boat. Moreover, only a few hundred watts would be necessary to power a few tiny, super-heated plasma strips. Perhaps the steam could be directed backward to create propulsion as well.

I don't know...the snook and tarpon are biting this weekend. So, I'll leave it to you to work out this one! Let me know when you're ready though...my running gear could use a steam-cleaning.

[Fanie]

Hi Tony, as far as I know, plasma is an electrical arc blowed by air and can only exist when electricity flows through the air from metal to metal, burning the metal away like a cutting torch.

Light source energy like lasers uses gas to generate the energy emitted.

In both cases the surface area is small and the energy is concentrated hence the high levels of power.

Steam under a boat makes for high temperatures... higher than boiling water which at the coast is around 100 deg C... besides some possible heat problems get ready to sauna where ever you go :D At least boaters will get to be slim people :D and you may even get the fish ready cooked by the time you lift it in the boat :rolleyes:

[juiceclark]

Aw' c'mon Fanie! Plasma is used in everything from flourescent lights to neon signs...not just welders. We have conversed so many times on this website about "greasing the highway" to lessen hull friction. Why couldn't a couple of popsickle stick sized steam-makers in the front center of the hull at least break suction and greatly increase efficiency?

With all the creative engineers and architects on this site I thought I'd receive, at least, some postive feedback.

[Fanie]

Well Tony, the one reason we hang around here is we hope someone somewhere is going to announce... 'we have it'

Your suggestion won't work since - and this is the problem with all propulsion systems - you need a hell of a lot of energy to get to some simple results.

Oh I know you guys just plug the welder in and weld away. The realization of what is really nessesary to generate that amount of power sets in the second the mains power is off and you have to find an alternate source.

It's really easy and quick to find out. Just cut your power at home and make do with other methods... you'll get the idea ;)