Collection: DIY Stirling Engines

What's Stirling Engine?

A Stirling engine is a closed-cycle regenerative engine that can use a variety of fuels as energy; also known as a heat engine. Stirling engines are another type of reciprocating power machinery besides steam engines and internal combustion engines; Stirling engines can be used as prime movers, as well as as refrigerators, heat pumps or pressure generators. With the rise of new energy sources, Stirling engines, especially combined with solar energy, have become an important way of solar power generation. While the parabolic disc thermal power generation system with Stirling generator has relatively good performance indicators, it is currently mainly used for small independent power supply in remote areas.

The engine is not modern or revolutionary. It was written by Robert Stirling in 1816. This engine is known to have the potential to be more efficient than any other type of combustion. Regardless of their findings, we cannot say that they end up imposing our lives on them. In fact, despite its greater potential, this engine is only used in some very specialized applications. Unlike conventional internal combustion engines, the area in which it is used requires the engine to be as quiet as possible. For example, it is used in submarines or auxiliary generators for yachts.
The engine uses the Stirling cycle, which is different from the cycle used in internal combustion engines.

The gases used are never exhausted from the engine, which helps to reduce the emission of polluting gases. It doesn't have an exhaust valve to expel high-pressure gas like a gasoline or diesel engine. In case of danger, there is no danger of explosion. Therefore, the Stirling engine is very quiet.

Stirling engine advantages:

It is silent. This type of motor is a good choice for certain activities that require greater quietness. It's also easy to balance and produces little vibration.
efficient. Due to the temperature of the cold and heat sources, it is possible to keep the engine running at low temperatures. Cogeneration.
You can have multiple popular sources. To heat the gas, you can use heat sources like wood, sawdust, solar or geothermal energy, waste, etc.
more ecological. This type of engine does not exhaust the gases into the atmosphere through complete combustion.
Higher reliability and easier maintenance. Its technique is very simple but effective. This makes them highly reliable and requires little maintenance.
They last longer. Unlike conventional engines, it's simpler, and because of their design, they last longer.
multiple uses. Due to its autonomy and adaptability to needs, as well as different types of heat sources, it can be used in many ways.

Stirling engine disadvantages:

Cost is your biggest concern. It is not competitive with other media.
not known to the public. If you don't know what a Stirling engine is, you can't promote it.
They tend to have sealing issues. This is a complicated process. The ideal choice is hydrogen because it is light and has the ability to absorb heat. However, it does not have the ability to diffuse in the material.
Sometimes it has to be large and requires bulky appliances.
Lack of flexibility. Fast and efficient power changes are difficult to obtain with Stirling engines. This is a qualified product with constant nominal performance.