Stirling Cycle Engines
Developed by Robert Stirling in 1817, the Stirling cycle engine utilizes
an external source of energy to heat a gas inside a cylinder. The gas,
under pressure, expands when heated, driving a piston to perform work.
The expanded gas volume, having released much of its energy, is then
cooled and compressed in preparation for the next heat cycle.
The Stirling cycle engine is well suited for stationary power.
It is inherently fuel efficient-the highest theoretical efficiency
of any heat engine.
|