Nube Ramblings...

[austin457]

I've been lurking for a few days now on these forums- and I've heard enough to be rather confused.
Trying to sort out what people posted they have tried (right or wrong) vs. a tried and true set-up.
I’m not a chemist/engineer but I am a very mechanical kind of guy. Was first introduced to hydrogen from water over 2 decades ago. Never got around to doing anything. I think I finally can now, since I got laid off I have plenty free-time.

Anyway, not really asking a question- just yet. Still digesting it all. I simply wanted to share a couple of resources/ideas I thought might be of interest that came to mind as soon as I started thinking of this project.

Since wet cells were the first ones I saw, I’m thinking of following that path. With that in mind, I question why everyone is going through so much trouble to build cylindrical containers? Why not just use a clear acrylic water filter housing? It’s rated for temp and pressure, has a screw on lid with pre-made NPT threaded holes, and it’s clear to see what’s happening? $20-$30. Unless you guys talk me out of it, that’s my choice. Other possibilities are air dyers from air compressors and fuel filters like on tractors. All are sturdy, clear, and pre-threaded.

Another idea, albeit an expensive one on a single run scenario. I play around with CAD and 3D models. There are prototype services out there that can ‘build’ a real-world model from a CAD file (Search 3D models, prototyping). I have not done homework in regards to the materials used being good for a chamber, but I do know ABS is one material used. Enough research would probably find a suitable clear material.
I saw something where a standard was trying to be established in this forum for uniform testing. But everyone is still having to make their cell housing on their own. Even the most steady hand is going to deviate. For True science, they all need to be Exactly the same. You guys decide a model, someone ‘draws’ it, and see just how much a run would cost. You guys could sell it on this site as a standard item for folks who want to participate in fine number crunching experiments. And yea, I’d volunteer for the CAD work. About all I could do tho.

I've seen someone mention McMaster-Carr. I concur, you can’t beat that catalog for inspiration. Makes me want to build something just thumbing the pages.
http://www.mcmaster.com/
Another really good source is http://www.usplastic.com/catalog/default.aspx?catid=610&parentcatid=795
The link I provide goes to a page that might be of particular interest for those building the see thru boxes. They are joiners- would really help keeping your boxes square while gluing and provide structural integrity. They have hinges, too.
They also have wire re-enforced tubing. Seems to me like that’d be a really good idea in an environment where a potential kink or crush could cause a real hazard. I've seen videos where I’d notice an overly large tube being waved around with a torch on it. In one I clearly saw the tube kinked. Just seems like bad idea. BTW- the wire is embedded, so corrosion is null.

…Actually I do have a general question, but it may be OT for this thread, so answer at your discretion. Simply put, I’m not interested in augmenting a car. Couldn’t pay my ins. anyway so I’m grounded ATM. I was more keen on producing hydrogen for burn applications- heat, cook etc. I don’t really see any info on how to do that. I was under the impression to separate the gas and store it, just like propane. I fully understand the need for modifications of orifices, flow rate, etc. But is there something I’m missing as to why this isn’t just as popular as car hype?
And to answer a potential question. How/Why would I power it for continuous use if not in a car? I may, may, be blessed in the near future to have access to a small pond/damn. A little water wheel, some gears n belts, and I could spin a small gen or car alternator to make me some burning fuel.