Some records are symbolic... it's cool someone went 127MPH in 1906... it's petty that someone went 131MPH in 2009. Let it be.
And besides, a 3.5 MPH increase over 102 years, with a streamlined car going against a buggy, seems unimpressive.
The last issue I see is that they should be two separate records anyway. This record should be for steam turbines, the previous record was set with a piston-steam engine. There are different records for jet powered lakesters and piston powered ones, so why is this different? These people seem to not really understand the spirit of the ordeal in my opinion.
You know, one of the most awesome things I've ever experienced was riding in the engine of a steam train. Steam propulsion is so ridiculous and so amazing all at once. Here's to hoping these guys break the record, and keep encouraging people to use steam power for future generations!
In other news, the Future Carriage set a land speed record of 45mph for horsedrawn carriages. This marvel of technology included an kinetic energy recovery system (whip powered by braking), a carbon fiber monocoque chassis, and an electronic differential for each hoof.
I guess steam cars will become worthwhile when we miniaturize nuclear reactors (?).
@dwegmull: From the size of that plume, I'd guess they're using some kind of bypass valve so as not to send full pressure to the turbine. You don't want to go balls out on a test run, especially where there isn't any run-off room.
Mike the Dog is sitting by the door with a pair of cow slippers, and a very sad face. was starred
Mike the Dog is sitting by the door with a pair of cow slippers, and a very sad face. was unstarred
Mike the Dog is sitting by the door with a pair of cow slippers, and a very sad face. was starred
Mike the Dog is sitting by the door with a pair of cow slippers, and a very sad face. was unstarred
I question the function of and necessity for the two fins (...or whatever you call them. God it's been a long time since I was 11). But they look mean.
08/21/09
08/21/09
Are there differnt classes for steam cars too.
08/21/09
And besides, a 3.5 MPH increase over 102 years, with a streamlined car going against a buggy, seems unimpressive.
The last issue I see is that they should be two separate records anyway. This record should be for steam turbines, the previous record was set with a piston-steam engine. There are different records for jet powered lakesters and piston powered ones, so why is this different? These people seem to not really understand the spirit of the ordeal in my opinion.
08/20/09
08/20/09
08/20/09
08/20/09
I guess steam cars will become worthwhile when we miniaturize nuclear reactors (?).
08/20/09
There was a robbery at the bottling plant. I think I know where the missing BS went.
08/20/09
08/20/09
Hic...no it wasn't. I'll just add snarky to the list. Yea, steam powered vehicles.
08/20/09
Good night. Chk msgs.
12/11/08
...the phone lived.
12/11/08
12/11/08
12/11/08
12/11/08
cause steam keeps pushing till someone decides to break
12/11/08
12/11/08
I'd love to see it in action, but all that steam would wreak havoc with my hairdo.
12/11/08
12/11/08
\different episode, I know, but it still involved a steam pipe.
12/11/08
12/11/08