Posted: Apr 18, 2017 7:03 am
theropod wrote:Manticore wrote:Stirling engines are amazing. Unfortunately, to get reasonable efficiency, the internal pressure has to be as high as possible. Sealing crankshaft bearings becomes a major problem. Best bet is probably a version with internal alternators (then you only have to seal the wires). Look up free piston Stirling engines for some examples of just how complicated it can get.
Yep, having built a couple from junk I know all this. If the Stirling is encased in a sealed container as you describe the working gas can be something like helium which really ups the efficiency. Free piston versions are indeed complicated.
RS
Nice one! Got any photos?