Do stirling engines have a pressure gradient across the regenerator?

In summary, the conversation discusses the temperature difference and the transition of the working fluid in a Stirling engine. It is concluded that there must be a pressure difference driving the flow of the fluid, but there is uncertainty about whether the process is constant volume or constant pressure. The design of the Stirling engine and the presence of a regenerator may also play a role in the pressure difference.
  • #1
Curl
758
0
There is a temperature difference and we know the transition of the working fluid (from the hot chamber to the cold one) is isometric. So either there must be a pressure difference, or the number of molecules must be smaller; however, this can't be the case since eventually all the gas must move over to the other side. So is there a pressure difference? Or is it both constant volume and constant pressure process?
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
  • #2
What does your Stirling engine look like?

In general, if there is flow through your regenerator (which I suspect there is but cannot confirm without knowing how the engine is configured) there is a pressure difference driving the flow from the pistons in the Stirling engine.
 

FAQ: Do stirling engines have a pressure gradient across the regenerator?

What is a stirling engine?

A stirling engine is a heat engine that operates on the principle of cyclic compression and expansion of air or other gas (the working fluid) at different temperature levels, resulting in a net conversion of thermal energy to mechanical work.

How does a stirling engine work?

A stirling engine works by using a heat source to heat and expand the gas in one cylinder, which then pushes a piston to do work. The expanded gas is then cooled and compressed in another cylinder, creating a continuous cycle of expansion and compression.

What is a pressure gradient in a stirling engine?

A pressure gradient in a stirling engine refers to the difference in pressure between the hot and cold sides of the engine. This gradient is necessary for the working fluid to flow from the hot side to the cold side and drive the engine.

How does the pressure gradient affect the performance of a stirling engine?

The pressure gradient plays a crucial role in the performance of a stirling engine. A larger pressure gradient means a greater temperature difference between the hot and cold sides, resulting in more efficient heat transfer and higher power output.

Do stirling engines have a pressure gradient across the regenerator?

Yes, stirling engines do have a pressure gradient across the regenerator. The regenerator is a key component of the engine where the working fluid is heated and cooled. The pressure gradient across the regenerator is necessary for the working fluid to flow and carry out the cyclic process of expansion and compression.

Similar threads

The effect of pressure gradient across dissimilar fluids
Replies
1
Views
1K
Renewable Energy Concept - Stirling Engine Composting
Replies
3
Views
3K
Can I use a Stirling generator to make electricity from our wood fired stove?
Replies
11
Views
2K
Will this be more efficient than the Sterling engine?
2
Replies
47
Views
8K
Predicting Remaining Pressure in Compressed Gas Cylinder
Replies
3
Views
2K
Cryocooler Stirling 1-stage build, some questions
Replies
11
Views
4K
Will curved heat pipes improve Stirling engine efficiency?
Replies
3
Views
6K
Efficiency of Stirling Cycle - Is it the same as the Carnot Engine?
Replies
14
Views
505
Question about pressure drops due to friction and valves
Replies
6
Views
2K
Discharge of a Pressure Vessel Containing Liquid Nitrous Oxide
Replies
14
Views
3K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top