Performance analysis of the two-component, two-phase stirling engine by a two-space engine model.

Abstract

A performance analysis of the two-component, two-phase Stirling engine has been carried out by using a two-space model, which involves the expansion space, the compression space and the two dead spaces, based upon the assumption that the thermodynamic state point of the condensable working fluid remains within the vapor dome throughout the entire cycle. Experimental studies have also been made using two engines which operate under different system-pressure conditions : the first one is a single acting, two-piston, parallel cylinder type engine using teflon bellows as a cylinder and operates at approximately 0.1 MPa ; and the other is an opposed piston engine with piston-cylinder mechanisms which can be operated at pressures greater than 1 MPa. As a result, it is shown that a performance estimate and optimum design of the two-component, two-phase, regenerative Stirling engine by the present engine model appears feasible. In addition, the experimental results indicate that in order to realize a self-operating engine, the condensable working fluid must go through a phase change(i.e., must boil) in the engine heater. This phase change then qualifies the engine cycle as a two-component, two-phase Stirling cycle.