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Low delta T engines
Posted: Wed Feb 01, 2006 5:44 pm
by j1o2nathan
I was just wondering what is the maximum power output of a Stirling
engine with a delta T of <10 C? Is it even physically possible to
get 100 watts, 10 kw, 100 kw if size is not an issue. And if so how
large would it have to be?
Power Output Realative to Size
Posted: Wed Feb 01, 2006 7:33 pm
by stan.hornbaker
Consider a 500MW steam-electric power plant. It's large, covers acres of land for the plant proper, coal storage, cooling towers/pond(s).
Next consider a Honda 5,000 W i.e. 5KW semi-portable generator set with a foot print about the size of a contractor' wheelbarrow.
Now what was the question you wanted an answer to?
Does size matter? Why of course it does, as does the delta T.
Response to Low delta T engines
Posted: Thu Feb 02, 2006 7:35 am
by stan.hornbaker
Power output of any heat engine is a function/fraction of the heat input. The more heat energy that can be furnished to the engine the greater the power output possible. With a delta T of 10 C or 18 F you have the potential of power outputs on the order of a small fraction of 1 W. This generally is little more than enough to overcome friction losses in even the crude "tin can" model engines.
The building/assembling of a LTD is an educational experience. You might want to consider an MM-5 Coffee Cup Kit or one of the numerous tin can models to be found on the internet.
There is quite a bit of theoretical information available on this site to achieve a better understanding of Stirling engine operation. I would strongly suggest that you take advantage of it.