4F30.10 Stirling Engine (Hot Water, Ice)
Concepts
Heat cycles
Overview
The Stirling engine will run when it is placed on a dish of crushed ice or on a mug of hot water. The manufacturer points out that the engine will run if placed on an ice cream cone, but this is messy to clean up.
Details
Equipment
- [1] Stirling engine
- [1] Mug or thermos
- [1] Kettle of water
- [1] Dish of crushed ice
Important Notes
- Handle with care. DO NOT USE dry ice or liquid nitrogen. DO NOT USE anything hotter than hot water.
Script
- Place the Stirling engine on a mug of hot water. The Stirling engine will begin to run.
- Place the Stirling engine on a dish of crushed ice. The Stirling engine will begin to run.
Additional Resources
References
- PIRA 4F30.10
- American Stirling Company
- Crane, H. Richard. "The Stirling Engine - 173 Years old and Running." TPT 28(4), 252-253 (1990)
- Ross, Andy. "Stirling Cycle Engines." Solar Engines 1981 (copy in demos)
- Stirling and Hot Air Engine Ring
Disclaimer
- Don't attempt this at home!
Last revised
- 2023
Technicals
- Original construction: purchased. We use a demonstration Stirling engine model MM-1 manufactured by American Stirling Company.
- The pictured engine is our old MM-4 model, which could be filled with helium. It is no longer working.
Related AV
Related demos
If you have any questions about the demos or notes you would like to add to this page, contact Ricky Chu at ricky_chu AT sfu DOT ca.