4 ms·
I really doubt the steam tank will be inside the pressurised volume. If they fail they would vent overboard. While an explosive failure would probably cause pro
by sitharus 13y ago
I really doubt the steam tank will be inside the pressurised volume. If they fail they would vent overboard. While an explosive failure would probably cause problems it wouldn't expose the passengers to high pressure steam.
The failure mode for composite overwrap pressure vessels is a slow leak, due to the overwrap containing the metal.
- marshray 13y agoA vehicle near the end of its ride will be carrying up to 818 kg (1800 lb) of superheated steam (127 C, 260 F). The 4000 kg (8,900 lb) of onboard batteries and 1800 kg compressor will be dumping heat too. This is 6600 kg of "hot stuff", whereas the entire capsule is projected to have a mass of 15000 kg. The current design has the passengers in an enclosed capsule in between the compressors and the batteries, with a pressurized air channel running right down the center isle. Keeping the cabin cool will be a challenge. If that emergency braking is activated, it could get a little warm in there before they are rescued. I think they may have to quickly repressurize the loop if a car ever gets stuck.
- Daniel_Newby 13y agoI wonder why they do not use ice. Melt it as a heat sink in normal operation, and vent it to the tunnel for emergency evaporative cooling.
- marshray 13y agoRoom-temperature water is readily available, easier to handle, and works almost as well.