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The Pretend Engineer

The Pretend Engineer

Aerospace logic. Acres of problems.


  • April 14, 2026

    Kirchhoff’s Voltage Law

    Kirchhoff’s Voltage Law

    This post explains Kirchhoff’s Voltage Law (KVL) for analyzing DC circuits, emphasizing that the net voltage in any loop must equal zero. It provides steps for circuit evaluation, including calculating voltage across resistors using Ohm’s Law. Clear guidelines on signs and examples enhance understanding of circuit components and current flow.

  • April 10, 2026

    Ground Loops

    Ground Loops

    The third part of the Geothermal Series discusses creating and installing ground loops for a geothermal system. It covers the use of PEX tubing, size calculations based on A/C capacity, construction methods like the “slinky” technique, testing for leaks, and installation challenges, ensuring effective heat dispersion underground.

  • April 7, 2026

    How Do Airplanes Create Lift?

    How Do Airplanes Create Lift?

    This post discusses the principles of how airplanes fly, focusing on the forces of lift and weight. It explains key concepts such as Bernoulli’s Principle and Newton’s Third Law as they relate to flight. Additionally, the post addresses common misconceptions, including the equal transit theory, and distinguishes between airplanes, helicopters, and rockets.

  • April 3, 2026

    Geothermal Trenches – Digging for Energy

    Geothermal Trenches – Digging for Energy

    This post discusses the complexities of installing geothermal trenches, highlighting the necessary equipment, challenges faced, and solutions found during the process. The author emphasizes the importance of using appropriately sized excavators and buckets for efficiency, sharing personal experiences and recommendations for future DIY geothermal projects.

  • March 27, 2026

    DIY Geothermal System Design

    DIY Geothermal System Design

    This series documents the design and construction of a homemade geothermal heating system for an off-grid building. The project aims for energy efficiency and includes a robust data collection setup to study ground temperature effects. Challenges arise from the lack of compact geothermal heat pumps, prompting innovative engineering solutions.

  • March 24, 2026

    Gravity

    Gravity

    This post examines the fundamentals of gravity, explaining it as a force between masses and how it impacts motion. It introduces Newton’s Laws, gravitational constants, and calculations for gravitational acceleration, showcasing both Earth and International Space Station examples. The significance of escape velocity is also highlighted.

  • March 20, 2026

    Rapid Shutdown System

    Rapid Shutdown System

    This post in the Solar Installation Series discusses the Tigo rapid shutdown system for solar power setups, a crucial safety feature mandated since 2017. It details equipment requirements, installation, and operation protocols to ensure compliance and safety. The system effectively reduces voltage during emergencies, enhancing safety for first responders and users.

  • March 17, 2026

    Kinetic and Potential Energy

    Kinetic and Potential Energy

    This lesson explains kinetic and potential energy. Kinetic energy is derived from an object’s motion, while potential energy depends on its position and height. Key formulas are presented, illustrating energy conservation in closed systems, such as roller coasters. Real-world examples, including baseballs and bullets, highlight the significance of these energies.

  • March 13, 2026

    Guide to Wiring Solar Power Equipment

    Guide to Wiring Solar Power Equipment

    This post, part six of a solar installation series, focuses on wiring the EG4 battery and inverter system. It covers equipment, wire management, and key connections, emphasizing the importance of safe installation practices. The author shares DIY solutions for organizing wiring, including 3D-printed looms, and discusses the integration of AC power into the system.

  • March 10, 2026

    Understanding Forces in Physics

    Understanding Forces in Physics

    This post discusses the fundamental concept of forces in physics, exploring both contact and non-contact forces, including applied, normal, friction, drag, tension, and spring forces. It emphasizes differences between weight and mass, explains the principles of Newton’s Laws, and highlights practical examples to enhance understanding of how forces interact in various scenarios.

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