Stirling engine: Construction and performance analysis at low temperatures

Abstract

Stirling engines, categorized as hot air engines, offer remarkable versatility by operating on a variety of fuel sources, which is a significant advantage in the context of energy diversification and sustainability. This thesis focuses on the experimental evaluation of a beta-type Stirling engine specifically designed to operate efficiently at low temperature differences. The experiments conducted demonstrated the feasibility of this engine configuration to function effectively even under lower thermal gradients, with a notable operational temperature differential of 80°C. The results revealed a direct correlation between the temperature difference and the engine’s performance, as evidenced by an increase in the number of revolutions per minute (RPM) corresponding to a rise in temperature differential. This research underscores the potential applications of low-temperature-difference Stirling engines in various energy systems, propelling advancements in clean energy technologies while enhancing their practicality in real-world settings. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of Stirling engine mechanics and their role in sustainable energy solutions.