I was curious to know if anyone has any thoughts on the effective use of steam power in the setting of prolonged loss of access to fossil fuels and grid produced electricitiy. Living in the northwest my access to wood fuel is good even when other fuels may not be available, but I can't find an electrical generator that gives me the option of driving it with different types of motors. I have found some steam engines, but they are principally for small boats and would need some adaption.
My ideal would be a steam engine that generates 5 to 20 hp, weighs under 500 pounds when not loaded with fuel or water and turns a horizontal shaft to which a pully and belt mechanism is attached and therefore could be used to power an irrigation pump, hydraulic motor, or electrical generator.
My ideal would be a steam engine that generates 5 to 20 hp, weighs under 500 pounds when not loaded with fuel or water and turns a horizontal shaft to which a pully and belt mechanism is attached and therefore could be used to power an irrigation pump, hydraulic motor, or electrical generator.