Week 2
Week 2
Studied the basic concepts of steam turbine systems, including how steam pressure can be used to generate rotational motion and move a lightweight vehicle.
Week 3
Identified and collected available materials including copper tubing, metal cans, toy tyres, and other recyclable parts. Also considered alternative lightweight materials from bookstores.
Week 4
Created the initial car layout using AutoCAD, including placement for the boiler, turbine, and axles. Considered material properties and design challenges during planning.
Week 5
Constructed the first steam turbine car using PVC chassis, a metal can boiler, copper tubing, plastic turbine, and wire axles. All components were assembled based on the AutoCAD design.
Week 6
Tested Design 1. The turbine failed to spin and the car did not move. Steam pressure was low and likely not directed effectively. Design 1 was kept for reference.
Week 7
Built two new prototypes using plastic cardboard chassis and toy tyres. Design 2 used metal rod axles and a small turbine; Design 3 used wooden sticks and a larger turbine. Both used smaller nozzles to increase steam pressure.
Week 8
Tested both new designs. Neither turbine spun and the cars didn’t move. Steam output was low despite long heating. Identified issues with steam pressure, heat transfer, and possible leaks.
Week 9
Analyzed all previous designs and identified key failures. Planned improvements such as adjusting nozzle size, improving heating, and optimizing turbine design. Final improved prototype will be built and presented.