Reply To: Focus fusion and transportation

[Brian H]

Rematog wrote: The solid state transformers I found on a quick search of the internet are very small (1 amp output or less). Also, all that I found mention of are step DOWN transformers. Unless you generate the power at 100,000 volts (which I really doubt), there will be a need for large step UP transformers.

Solid state technology is, currently (pun), normally limited to relatively low currents. The supplier I checked with stated that there are no solid state transformers available on the commerical market today.

The most common application of solid state power technology today is the variable frequency drive (VFD), which would be generally similar to a transfomer application. For example, a 100 hp motor VFD is expensive (A “VFD” is a “smart” solid state drive the rectifies the AC to DC, then creates AC at a new, controllable frequency (it can also adjust voltage to a certain extent), in order to control motor speed, which can reduce in-rush (start-up) current surge, conserve power at lower motor torque/speed demands, and control the “process” being driven by the motor in question (speed control).

For a 100 HP drive a quoted list price is $13,000. I’d assume a solid state transformer to process the power from a 5 MW (6,670 Hp) Focus Fusion power generator would cost around the $500,000 your assuming the generator would cost.

Based on $13,000/2 /100 x 6670 = $434,000, (cost of 100 hp VFD / 2 for economy of scale / 100 to get per Hp x 6670 HP of 5 MW FF generator).

hmmm….

Well, that’s pretty much it, then, game-set-match. There is no reasonable way ($$$) in prospect even today for commercial large scale DC transformers, which means strictly local DC power and electronics.

BTW, TeslaMotors chose AC motors for their BEV Roadsters and upcoming Model S for the exact reasons you cite. Their 115-lb watermelon-size motor puts out ~250hp, and accelerates the car 0-60 in 3.7 seconds (Sportster performance model) — using a single-gear transmission. More or less flat torque 0-14,000 rpm, =~125 mph.