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Title: Stirling engine alternatives for the terrestrial solar application

Technical Report ·
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/5172329· OSTI ID:5172329

The first phase of the present study of Stirling engine alternatives for solar thermal-electric generation has been completed. Development risk levels are considered to be high all engines evaluated. Free-piston type and Ringbom-type Stirling engine-alternators are not yet developed for the 25-to-50-kW electrical power range, although smaller machines have demonstrated the inherent robustness of the machines. Kinematic-type Stirling engines are presently achieving a 3500-h lifetime or longer on critical components, and lifetime must still be further extended for the solar application. Operational and technical characteristics of all types of Stirling engines have been reviewed with engine developers. Technical work of merit in progress in each engine development organization should be recognized and supported in an appropriate manner.

Research Organization:
California Institute of Technology (CalTech), Pasadena, CA (United States). Jet Propulsion Lab. (JPL)
DOE Contract Number:
AI04-80AL13137
OSTI ID:
5172329
Report Number(s):
DOE/JPL-1060-91; JPL-PUB-85-70; ON: DE86010238
Resource Relation:
Other Information: Portions of this document are illegible in microfiche products
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English