The discussion revolves around the feasibility of creating a heat-based transport pipe inspired by Tesla's valve design. Participants explore the concept of using heat to induce fluid flow without moving parts, considering both theoretical and practical implications.
Participants express differing views on the viability of a heat-based transport pipe without cooling. While some explore the concept of using heat for flow, others challenge the feasibility based on the necessity of a temperature gradient for convection.
The discussion highlights assumptions about temperature differences and fluid dynamics, and the limitations of applying heat without a cooling mechanism are noted but not resolved.
Andrew Bridges said:my question is, can I make a pipe with the valve's structure, and only apply heat in order to create flow. I know things follow the path of least resistance, and with a constant addition of heat, I'm thinking it would cause a forward flow 100% of the time. Thoughts?
Right. That's essentially what I'm thinking, but to have a radial tesla valve as the hose or pipe. That way gravity or cooling at one end is unnecessary.CWatters said:I'm not quite sure I understand your question but..
Some heating systems use convection to circulate hot water around a house (for example) instead of using a pump. It will keep circulating as long as you keep heating one side and allow heat to escape from the other. Typically these are called "gravity" or "gravity fed" systems. They don't usually need a valve at all (except to isolate parts of the system for repairs).
Andrew Bridges said:That way gravity or cooling at one end is unnecessary.