Solar to Steam: A Sustainable Reintroduction to Fireless Steam Locomotion

Abstract

The diesel engine is very efficient for high-speed (40+ miles per hour) rail operations; however, a low-speed (5-7 miles per hour) switching locomotive spends 75% of its day at idle, dropping its diesel engine efficiency to 2%. Furthermore, these engines create excessive CO2 and NOx emissions that are harmful to the local environment and operators. A fireless steam locomotive eliminates these harmful emissions and increases efficiency while not reintroducing the dangers of the traditional steam locomotive. This project explores the use of solar power to generate steam for a 1:8 scale fireless locomotive for hobbyists and museums to use for recreation and as an educational demonstration to invigorate change within the locomotive industry.