soda can stirling engine trouble

Discussion on Stirling or "hot air" engines (all types)
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47794
Posts: 2
Joined: Fri Jan 06, 2017 7:04 pm

soda can stirling engine trouble

Post by 47794 »

Hi guys,
I made a soda can stirling engine and it wont run (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_c7BGP94eHI). I made a few modifications to it: I used 2 CD's for the flywheel and balanced it, I also made the displacer out of balsa wood instead of steal wool because it was easier to fit and lighter.

I'm using a tea candle to heat it, when I spin it it makes at least 5 revolutions and I'm pretty sure it's not an air leak.

Thank you.
Ian S C
Posts: 2218
Joined: Thu Dec 02, 2010 5:15 am
Location: New Zealand

Re: soda can stirling engine trouble

Post by Ian S C »

Is the Balsa displacer solid or hollow, if hollow it must be air tight. Maybe you should now try the steel wool. What was the design heat source?
Ian S C
47794
Posts: 2
Joined: Fri Jan 06, 2017 7:04 pm

Re: soda can stirling engine trouble

Post by 47794 »

Thanks for replying Ian,
The displacer is hollow, I'll double check it and the heat source was a candle or oil lamp.

I'll try to what you said.
Trevor
Posts: 228
Joined: Sun Nov 06, 2016 4:07 am

Re: soda can stirling engine trouble

Post by Trevor »

The steel wool works best for these soft drink can engines (Good regenerator) and they can go pretty fast. Just make sure that the ateel wool is loosely packed as it does rub against the displacer cylinder.
Trev
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