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about the maintenance of Stirling engine

Posted: Wed Mar 04, 2009 11:10 am
by xmdxx1182
in the recently nature materials magzine, somebody comments people
should go into solar-Stirling power generation, which has over 30%
efficiency. I know Stirling engine requires less maitenance than IC,
but normally how frequently we should do it and how many hours it
could take?

another question is for a large scale power generation, what's the
biggest issure Stirling engine is still facing except the cost.

about the maintenance of Stirling engine

Posted: Wed Mar 04, 2009 12:44 pm
by stan.hornbaker
For one or two engines try an annual inspection of bearings, seals and sliding surfaces. Depending on results of such an inspection double the time to the next inspection and compare finding. Then double the time to the next inspection and repeat.

For a large number of identical engines start as above and keep detailed records till you can predict MTBF to establish the best length of time till taking a unit out of service for inspection and
maintenance to minimize maintenance cost vs. repair/replacement costs.