Factors Influencing the Thermodynamic Efficiency of Stirling Engines

Hayden Ferral-Smith; Georgia Giannakakis; Joshua Wilson; Joshua Taylor

doi:10.5130/pamr.v4i0.1459

PAM Review Vol. 4 (2017) - Journal Cover

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Published: Jun 5, 2017

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5130/pamr.v4i0.1459

Hayden Ferral-Smith

University of Technology Sydney

http://orcid.org/0000-0002-7175-9028

Georgia Giannakakis

University of Technology Sydney

http://orcid.org/0000-0001-9488-3382

Joshua Wilson

University of Technology Sydney

http://orcid.org/0000-0001-8910-5041

Joshua Taylor

University of Technology Sydney

http://orcid.org/0000-0003-0031-4061

Abstract

This meta-study examines the factors which contribute to Stirling engine efficiency. Working fluids should have high specific heat capacity, low viscosity and low density making noble gases the most suitable. Each different working fluid has its own optimum power output at varying pressures and temperatures. The best being Helium at 4.14 MPa and 922K. Dead volume also affects the power output of Stirling engines. Theoretical engines with zero dead volume are ideal but dead volume can occupy over 50% of the engine. Engine configuration also impacts on the efficiency of a Stirling engine. The layout of pistons and cylinders about each other can also have drastic effects on these efficiencies. Currently the most effective engine layout is the ‘gamma’ configuration, which measures 30%-32% efficient. Future research is required to produce a more efficient Stirling engines, based on the factors considered above to determine the viability of these engines as a replacement for coal and fossil fuel powered combustion engines.

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