i am working with a group to build a miniature car usinga chemical reaction and need a turbine to generate electricity. Is it possible to have a small turbine and a small ac motor generate enough electricity to power a typical toy car motor. if so, what kind and how expensive are they.
this only works with certain types of motors.
There are model jet engines that you might be able to use. That said, the search to find one might be very long term since such applications are rare. The AC motor, unless it is a universal type, is out. Even if there is residual magnetism present in it, it is going to be small and not produce the current that you need. It is also going to be big, and most likely not suitable for your miniature car. Even typical turbines, unless machined for the application are going to be quite big, and could be to powerful for your car. Lithium batteries have a good current density for their size and would be a better bet than trying what you have outlined. If your car were a small compact, you might get away with it. What you suggest, however, forget it, use a battery. While I am not sure what you are trying to achieve, consider cost of the real thing. Is it something people would want, or an expensive toy for someone that might be willing to put up with it. Practicality is a point that should be considered in your design, and efforts. Original thought is nice, and it has played an important role in our technological advances. Some things, however, just do not work out very well. Back in the late 1960's, Chrysler had a turbine powered car. It never got to production because of maintenance issues, and no one wanted it. Yes, there were a couple of turbine powered race cars, but they are long gone now. Think about it.
If you turn a motor in reverse it should be able to generate electricity. The problem is to find a motor that will produce the amount of electricity you need and make a turbine with sufficient power to drive the motor in reverse.
