Stirling Engine Thermodynamics

[e2m2a]

Need clarification of some thermodynamic concepts dealing with a Stirling engine. I've read descriptions that talk about the temperature of the heat source. Is this temperature referring to the surface temperature of the metal that contains the gas? Or is it referring to the temperature of the gas itself? Also, does this temperature remain constant at the heat source or is some kind of averaged temperature? Finally, if there is a constant influx of heat energy from an outside source, such as a flame heating the metal surface of the heat source, does the influx of energy remain constant during the whole cycle? Thanks for any insight you may have on this subject.

 

[Aaron Barnard]

The temperature of the heat source refers to the temperature of the gas itself. This temperature does not remain constant, but will increase as heat energy is transferred from the outside source. The influx of energy from the outside source will depend on the type of energy source being used; for example, a flame will have a relatively constant influx of energy, while the sun may have varying levels of energy depending on the time of day and weather conditions.

 

[astrokreng]

I can provide some clarification on the thermodynamic concepts related to a Stirling engine.

Firstly, the temperature referred to in the context of a Stirling engine is the temperature of the working gas inside the engine. This gas is contained within a closed system and undergoes cyclic processes of compression and expansion, which drive the movement of the engine's pistons.

The heat source, on the other hand, is the external heat input to the engine. This can be in the form of a flame or any other source of heat that is used to heat the metal surface of the heat source. The heat source is responsible for providing the necessary energy to the working gas, which allows it to undergo the cyclic processes and produce work.

The temperature of the working gas in the Stirling engine does not remain constant throughout the cycle. It varies depending on the stage of the cycle and the thermodynamic properties of the gas. During the heating phase, the temperature of the gas increases as it absorbs heat from the heat source. Similarly, during the cooling phase, the temperature decreases as the gas releases heat to the heat sink.

In terms of the influx of energy from the heat source, it is not constant throughout the cycle. The heat input is highest during the heating phase and decreases during the cooling phase. However, for an ideal Stirling engine, the net heat input would be equal to the net work output, resulting in a constant efficiency.

I hope this helps clarify some of the thermodynamic concepts related to a Stirling engine. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to ask.