Skip to content
  • Home
  • 3D Printing
  • Aerospace
  • Education
  • Geothermal
  • Solar
  • Current/Future Projects
  • About
The Pretend Engineer

The Pretend Engineer

Aerospace logic. Acres of problems.


  • June 12, 2026

    Constant Acceleration

    Constant Acceleration

    This post explores solving physics problems involving constant acceleration, particularly in free-fall scenarios. It explains constant versus non-constant acceleration using Newton’s Second Law, presents kinematic equations, and includes two practical problems involving falling objects and vehicle braking. The importance of accurate calculations and unit conversions is emphasized throughout.

  • June 5, 2026

    3D Printed Plasma Cutting Guide

    3D Printed Plasma Cutting Guide

    This post discusses the use of 3D printing to create cutting guides for plasma cutters, which are essential for achieving precision in metal cutting. It covers essential topics such as understanding plasma cutter operation, measuring kerf, and designing effective guides to minimize heat transfer and ensure accurate cuts, showcasing practical applications and design considerations.

  • May 29, 2026

    DIY Gantry Crane – Design

    DIY Gantry Crane – Design

    This post discusses the design of a DIY gantry crane, highlighting key design goals such as a 3-ton lift capacity and adjustable height. It covers beam selection, telescoping uprights, and legs’ design, ultimately focusing on achieving functionality with plans for future upgrades. The design emphasizes efficiency and cost savings over purchasing a commercial crane.

  • May 22, 2026

    Finding The Right Beam For Your Project

    Finding The Right Beam For Your Project

    The article discusses the process of selecting an appropriate beam for constructing a gantry crane capable of lifting 6,600 lbs. It explains key concepts such as yield strength, ultimate strength, and safety factors. The author illustrates calculations, including free body diagrams, shear and moment diagrams, and checks for shear stress and deflection, ultimately evaluating beam…

  • May 15, 2026

    What is Thrust?

    What is Thrust?

    This post explains thrust, a fundamental force in aviation, detailing its creation through the acceleration of air by engines. It debunks misconceptions about thrust mechanics, compares propeller-driven and jet engines, and discusses their efficiency across various speeds and altitudes. The choice between them depends on the aircraft’s purpose.

  • May 8, 2026

    Building a Tank

    Building a Tank

    This post discusses the challenges of designing and constructing a geothermal tank for a mini-split air conditioner condenser. It details the iterative process of tank construction using different materials and techniques, including fiberglass and aluminum, while addressing issues like leaks and insulation for thermal efficiency. Future enhancements are also planned.

  • May 1, 2026

    Kirchhoff’s Laws in Practice

    Kirchhoff’s Laws in Practice

    This post provides a comprehensive guide on solving electrical circuits using Kirchhoff’s Voltage and Current Laws. It emphasizes using a TI-84 Plus calculator for analysis and demonstrates how to set up and solve a system of equations related to currents and voltage drops. It encourages readers to practice independently and verify their results.

  • April 28, 2026

    Kirchhoff’s Current Law

    Kirchhoff’s Current Law

    This lesson focuses on Kirchhoff’s Current Law (KCL), which states that the net current at any circuit node is zero. It outlines how to set up KCL problems, including conventions for current direction. The post also discusses the relationship between currents at nodes and introduces upcoming content that will integrate KCL with Kirchhoff’s Voltage Law…

  • April 24, 2026

    Sensor Network

    Sensor Network

    This post discusses the installation and design of a comprehensive sensor network for a geothermal system, detailing sensors used for measuring ground and water temperatures. The author shares the challenges faced during installation, including modifications to design plans due to complications. The goal is to optimize system performance by analyzing temperature data effectively.

  • April 17, 2026

    Geothermal Mud

    Geothermal Mud

    The article discusses the challenges and modifications made in a DIY geothermal heating system, particularly regarding the use of agricultural lime (Aglime) as a thermal conductivity enhancer. While recognizing potential inefficiencies, the author aims to optimize performance by incorporating Aglime, which offers high thermal conductivity, increased density, and moisture resilience, despite installation challenges.

1 2 3 4
Next Page→

Proudly Powered by WordPress

Loading Comments...