Freezing Cold Energy: Building a Sterling Engine

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the feasibility of building a Stirling engine to generate electricity in extreme cold conditions, specifically at -40 degrees Fahrenheit. Participants reference NASA's Glenn Research Center, which has developed Stirling engines paired with linear induction generators, emphasizing the necessity of a heat source for operation. While the idea of low-cost electricity is appealing, contributors acknowledge the upfront capital and labor costs involved in constructing such a system. The conversation highlights both skepticism and curiosity regarding the practicality of this energy solution.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Stirling engine mechanics
  • Familiarity with linear induction generators
  • Knowledge of thermodynamics and heat transfer principles
  • Basic electrical engineering concepts
NEXT STEPS
  • Research NASA's Stirling engine projects and their applications
  • Explore the principles of linear induction generators
  • Investigate thermodynamic cycles relevant to Stirling engines
  • Learn about the construction and design of DIY Stirling engines
USEFUL FOR

Engineers, hobbyists, and renewable energy enthusiasts interested in alternative energy solutions, particularly those exploring the potential of Stirling engines in extreme environments.

Pythagorean
Science Advisor
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I don't pay my electricity bill so if I build a sterling engine going out into the -40 degree weather...
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
:smile: Starting trouble, huh? :smile:
 
apparently not an appreciable amount.
 
Well, you gets what you pays for...
 
I thought this type of thread always starts with "Tell me why this won't work!" and ends with someone posting the crackpot point rating system. :-p
 
It may still end that way...

Zz.
 
ZapperZ said:
It may still end that way...

Zz.

I'm waiting for the
"You may actually be onto something!" post... :rolleyes:
 
moose said:
I'm waiting for the
"You may actually be onto something!" post... :rolleyes:

Then you shouldn't be looking in the GD forum.

Zz.
 
Pythagorean said:
I don't pay my electricity bill so if I build a sterling engine going out into the -40 degree weather...
Well, folks at NASA's Glenn Research Center have designed and built Stirling engines and generating systems with linear induction generators. But one still needs a heat source. :wink:

http://www.grc.nasa.gov/WWW/tmsb/stirling.html

Of course, building one's own generator may potentially lead to low cost electricity, but it's not exactly free. There are upfront capital costs and some labor involved.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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Likes   Reactions: dennisk
  • #10
YOU MAY BE ON TO SOMETHING!:smile::smile:Sorry, I couldn't resist!
 
  • #11
Needs more zpm!

http://img503.imageshack.us/img503/5664/untitled6jf1.png
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #12
Not only is the energy free, but my landlord would probably say I'm not conserving energy.

I think I broke the physics.
 

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