Efficient Laser Steam Generation for High Pressure Vessels: Expert Suggestions

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the inefficiency of using lasers for heating high-pressure vessels to generate steam, particularly at a target temperature of 115 degrees Celsius. Experts suggest that solid-state lasers, while advanced, still require significant energy input and are not efficient compared to traditional methods like nichrome wire. The consensus emphasizes that lasers excel at focusing energy on small spots but are not ideal for heating large volumes of water within pressure vessels. Current boiler technology achieves approximately 88% efficiency in converting combustion heat to steam, making it a more viable option for rapid steam generation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of laser technology, specifically solid-state lasers
  • Knowledge of thermal dynamics in high-pressure vessels
  • Familiarity with steam generation processes and efficiency metrics
  • Basic principles of energy transfer and heat efficiency in heating systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the efficiency of nichrome wire heating versus laser heating
  • Explore advanced solid-state laser specifications and applications
  • Investigate current boiler technologies and their efficiency ratings
  • Learn about thermal dynamics in high-pressure systems and steam generation
USEFUL FOR

Engineers, thermal dynamics specialists, and anyone involved in the design and optimization of steam generation systems, particularly in high-pressure applications.

Chippit
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I am working on a new concept design and would like some suggestions on which Lasers(s) would be most appropriate for heating a high pressure vessel for producing steam. The concept requires very quick steam generation but heat can not be excessive enough to harm the vessel being heated. As a starting point, 115 degrees C should be sufficient. My concept calls for a number of lasers used in a concentric sprial application.
Any Thoughts?
 
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Chippit said:
I am working on a new concept design and would like some suggestions on which Lasers(s) would be most appropriate for heating a high pressure vessel for producing steam. The concept requires very quick steam generation but heat can not be excessive enough to harm the vessel being heated. As a starting point, 115 degrees C should be sufficient. My concept calls for a number of lasers used in a concentric sprial application.
Any Thoughts?

Welcome to the PF.

That's an extremely inefficient way to heat a vessel. Can you say why you want to use lasers instead of just using nichrome wire?
 
I concur. Heat by laser is not very efficient. Current solid state lasers are much better than other technologies used in the past. But still, multi-kilowatt lasers sufficient for any kind of significant heating will require a lot of input energy...most of which goes up in waste heat. What size vessel? Lasers typically only achieve sufficient power density (watt/cm^2) to do useful thermal work when focused to a small spot. And THAT is one of the primary useful features of lasers: focusing to a small spot.
 
Current boiler technology is about 88% efficient in transferring the heat of combustion into turning water into superheated steam. It's not clear how quick 'very quick' is for the OP's application. Also, you don't necessarily want to heat the pressure vessel to generate the steam: you want to heat the water inside the PV.
 

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