| Re: OT Interesting video
In article
<pan.2007.01.18.23.00.13.271243@letterboxes.org> ,
Matt O'Toole <mattotoole@letterboxes.org> wrote:
> On Thu, 18 Jan 2007 16:40:11 -0500, Ken C. M. wrote:
>
> > Michael Press wrote:
>
> >> Can you can tell me why gas turbine engines are not practical? They
> >> have run well in races.
>
> > Ask Chrysler they tried to get one to work in a prototype back in 70s
> > and it went nowhere fast.
>
> Turbines are actually less efficient and pollute more than modern diesels,
> so they're a non-starter for car/truck use.
>
> On top of that, they're expensive, run at too-high RPM, and have a narrow
> RPM operating range. They're more suited for constant speed, high load
> applications, like generators and aircraft/marine propellers.
>
> Turbines are well suited for aircraft because of their light weight,
> compact size, reliability, and relative efficiency. Light weight and
> compact size makes for a smaller plane which requires less power, etc.
>
> An Indy race car is a relatively constant speed, high load application,
> where light weight and compact size are important too. Thus Granatelli's
> effort in the 60s, which would have won if not for a broken fuel pump.
Thanks.
--
Michael Press
|