Direct generation of electric power from a high-velocity gas jet

The possibility of generating electric power by the electromagnetic braking of a high-velocity gas jet is discussed. Outstanding problems are assessed and suggestions are put forward for the solution of some of them, but the need for more research is emphasized The continued economic expansion of our society depends upon the growing availability of distributable power, and most of the burden of this increase will fall upon the electric power generating industry. The output of electrical generating plant doubles about every 10 years, but the demand is still greater than the supply. In spite of the vast amount of electric energy (about 10¹² kw-hr) produced every year, the efficiency of modern fossil fuel power stations is only about 35 per cent. Any method for increasing this efficiency would be of great importance. The major loss of energy in the conventional process occurs during the conversion of thermal energy in the working fluid to mechanical energy at the electric generator; i.e., in the turbine part of the system. This conversion efficiency could be increased by raising operating temperatures, but there is a practical limit in machines operating with high mechanical stresses.