Rebirth of the stirling engine
Revived interest in external combustion is attributed to such advantages as ability to use a variety of energy sources, high system efficiency and low pollution. A relatively high weight-power ratio, which is undesirable in propulsion applications, and manufacturing costs that have not yet been refined are the two remaining technological challenges. A diagram explaining the Stirling cycle is presened. It is revealed that the first-generation automotive engine (MOD I), which is now being tested, has efficiency in most of the operating ranges that exceeds the analytical predictions that were incorporated into the design. The engine's power density has been improved by 35%. MOD II, which is the second-generation engine and represents the conclusion of the program in 1985, is expected to have 50% fuel economy improvement. This is considerably greater than the 30% currently specified, and the engine weight is expected to be about 5 lb/hp, which is comparable to the weight of diesel engines. It is also expected to meet or surpass both the emission and noise standards. It is concluded that whether the automotive industry will choose the Stirling engine or the gas turbine as its prime mover will depend on a variety of factors, of which technology is only one.
- Research Organization:
- Mechanical Technology Inc., Latham, NY 12110
- OSTI ID:
- 5697304
- Journal Information:
- CHEMTECH; (United States), Vol. 13:1
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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