Stirling machine operating experienceNumerous Stirling machines have been built and operated, but the operating experience of these machines is not well known. It is important to examine this operating experience in detail, because it largely substantiates the claim that Stirling machines are capable of reliable and lengthy lives. The amount of data that exists is impressive, considering that many of the machines that have been built are developmental machines intended to show proof of concept, and were not expected to operate for any lengthy period of time. Some Stirling machines (typically free-piston machines) achieve long life through non-contact bearings, while other Stirling machines (typically kinematic) have achieved long operating lives through regular seal and bearing replacements. In addition to engine and system testing, life testing of critical components is also considered.
Document ID
19920068164
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Ross, Brad A. (Stirling Technology Co. Richland, WA, United States)
Dudenhoefer, James E. (NASA Lewis Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
Date Acquired
August 15, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1991
Subject Category
Mechanical Engineering
Meeting Information
Meeting: IECEC ''91: Intersociety Energy Conversion Engineering Conference