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Title: Automotive Stirling Engine systems development

Conference · · Proc., Intersoc. Energy Convers. Eng. Conf.; (United States)
OSTI ID:5943723

The objective of the Automotive Stirling Engine (ASE) program is to develop a Stirling engine for automotive use that provides a 30% improvement in fuel economy relative to a comparable internal-combustion engine while meeting emissions goals. This paper traces the engine systems' development efforts focusing on: 1) a summary of engine system performance for all Mod I engines; 2) the development program conducted for the upgraded Mod I; and 3) vehicle systems work conducted to enhance vehicle fuel economy. Problems encountered during the upgraded Mod I test program are discussed. The importance of the EPA driving cycle cold-start penalty and the measures taken to minimize that penalty with the Mod II are also addressed. The design of an engine intended to meet the program objectives (Mod II) was initiated based on the Reference Engine System Design (RESD)*, which is a departure from existing program engines in that it is a Vee design with an annular regenerator/cooler arrangement, as opposed to the existing U-cannister configuration. The development is expected to take place over an approximate four-year time period, culminating in a vehicle demonstration of fuel economy that meets program goals. This paper presents the performance development of the ASE Program engines. Results obtained with the initial P-40 engines are presented, and Mod I engine performance and vehicle fuel economy measurements are discussed. The actions taken on the upgraded Mod I program are detailed, and the results presented. The Mod II engine design is reviewed, and projections for that system are presented. Accomplishments achieved within the ASE Program since its inception are also summarized.

Research Organization:
Mechanical Technology Incorporated, Latham, New York
OSTI ID:
5943723
Report Number(s):
CONF-840804-
Journal Information:
Proc., Intersoc. Energy Convers. Eng. Conf.; (United States), Vol. 3; Conference: Intersociety energy conversion engineering conference, San Francisco, CA, USA, 19 Aug 1984
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English