22-10-2014, 02:21 PM
Abstracts: This study strives to provide a clear explanation of the Stirling engine and its efficiency using new automation technology. This heat engine was invented by Stirling, a Scottish in 1918. The engine’s working principles are based on the laws of thermodynamics and ability of volume expansion of ideal gases at different temperatures. Basically there are three types of Stirling engines: the gamma, beta and alpha models. The engine uses an external heat source in contrast with combust engines so there is no explosion inside the cylinder while working. The gas is expanded and compressed cyclically and continuously to produce motion to transforming energy. Fluid gas remains inside the system and it is displaced from the hot side to the cool side and vice versa when the engine is operating. There is no exhaustion like normal petrol engine, the engine works very quietly. The compressible gas can be air, hydrogen, helium, nitrogen or even vapour depending on the design of the engine. Any source of heat can power the engine, from solid coal to oil and solar energy, only the heat source must be adjusted to the engine. For example in a solar energy model the solar concentrator and absorber has to be integrated with the heating part of the cylinder. This engine offers the possibility for having high efficiency with less exhaust emissions in comparison with the internal combustion engine. The study focuses on a Beta type engine model which is located in the Automation engineering laboratory. The engine is coupled with a small generator for transforming heat energy to electrical energy.