1987 overview of free-piston Stirling technology for space power applicationThe Lewis Research Center program concerned with the development of a free-piston Stirling engine for space-power applications is examined. The system mass of a Stirling system is compared to that of a Brayton system for the same peak temperature and output power; the advantages of the Stirling system are discussed. The predicted and experimental performances of the 25 kWe opposed-piston space power demonstrator engine are evaluated. It is determined that in order to enhance performance the regenerator needs to be modified, and the gas bearing flow between the displacer and power piston needs to be isolated in order to increase the operating stroke. Identification and correction of the energy losses, the design and operation of the linear alternator, and heat exchange concepts are considered. The design parameters and conceptual design characteristics for a 25 kWe single-cylinder free-piston Stirling space-power converter are described.
Document ID
19880024715
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Slaby, Jack G. (NASA Lewis Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
Alger, Donald L. (NASA Lewis Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)