How To Make Power In Thermal Expansion

Power generation is a fundamental aspect of Thermal Expansion, and there are multiple ways to create it depending on your resources and progression stage. This guide will walk you through all six methods of generating power using dynamos, from the simplest early-game options to more complex fuel-based systems.

Understanding Dynamos

Dynamos are the primary blocks used to generate power in Thermal Expansion. Each dynamo type uses different fuel sources and has varying efficiency levels. Let’s explore each one in detail.

1. Sterling Dynamo

The Sterling Dynamo is the easiest and earliest-game dynamo you can craft. To use it, simply gather some coal and place it into the dynamo. This will immediately begin generating power for your system—perfect for beginners just starting their modded journey.

2. Compression Dynamo

The Compression Dynamo is more complex than the Sterling Dynamo and uses heated fluids as fuel. To set up a Compression Dynamo system:

Setup Process

Gather oak logs

Place the logs into a Pyrolyzer block

Connect the Pyrolyzer to your Compression Dynamo using a fluid duct

The Pyrolyzer will produce Creosote Oil, which flows into the dynamo to generate power

Fuel Options

The Compression Dynamo can use several types of fuel. You can check available fuels by pressing U on the dynamo in JEI. The accepted fuels include:

Tree Oil

Creosote Oil

Refined Fuel (made from heavy oil, light oil, and fractionation)

Output efficiency varies significantly by fuel type. Refined Fuel generates the most power at 1.5 million per bucket, while Creosote Oil and Tree Oil produce considerably less. If you’re looking for maximum power output, investing in a refining setup to produce Refined Fuel is worthwhile.

3. Magmatic Dynamo

The Magmatic Dynamo is straightforward and efficient. It converts lava directly into energy. Simply pump lava into the dynamo using a fluid duct or any other liquid transport method, and it will generate power. This is an excellent option if you have access to a reliable lava source.

4. Lapidary Dynamo

The Lapidary Dynamo uses gemstones and similar materials to generate power. Press U on the Lapidary Dynamo in JEI to see the full list of accepted items. Usable materials include:

Lapis Lazuli

Prismatic Crystals

Rubies

Diamonds

Amorphous Shards

Sapphires

Emeralds

Nether Quartz

The exact gems available depend on which mods are included in your modpack. This dynamo is ideal if you have a steady supply of gemstones from mining or other sources.

5. Disenchantment Dynamo

The Disenchantment Dynamo is particularly interesting because it converts experience into power. You can feed it Bottles of Enchanting, which it will consume to generate energy. This is a unique way to convert stored XP into a usable resource.

6. Gourmandium Dynamo

The Gourmandium Dynamo burns food items to produce energy. Any food in your inventory can be converted into power using this dynamo, making it useful for disposing of excess food while generating electricity.

Exporting Power

Once your dynamos are producing power, you’ll need to distribute it throughout your system. Use Flux Ducts to transport power from your dynamos to other machines and blocks. Attach Flux Ducts to the front face of your dynamo to begin power transmission.

Rotating Your Dynamo

If you need to change which direction your dynamo faces, use a Crescent Hammer. Right-click the dynamo with the Crescent Hammer and continue clicking until it faces the desired direction. This allows you to optimize your power transmission layout.

Summary

Thermal Expansion provides six distinct methods for generating power, each suited to different stages of progression and available resources:

Sterling Dynamo: Early-game, coal-based

Compression Dynamo: Intermediate, fluid-based with high output using Refined Fuel

Magmatic Dynamo: Simple, lava-based

Lapidary Dynamo: Gem-based

Disenchantment Dynamo: XP-based

Gourmandium Dynamo: Food-based

Choose the dynamo type that best matches your current resources and modpack setup. Remember to use Flux Ducts to export power and a Crescent Hammer to rotate dynamos as needed. With these tools, you’ll have a reliable power infrastructure for all your Thermal Expansion needs.

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