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Using a striling engine to get off the grid

Posted: Sun Sep 21, 2008 2:59 pm
by ABEC1971
Hello, I'm a newbie to the stirling engine world in need of some basic advice. I only recently learned about stirling engines and it appears that this would be indeal engine to run a ~10kW generator. I would like to start off by building a small scale version of the engine that I will ultimately use to generate electricity. As I understand it, an Alpha or a Gamma type would be best suited for the application. From what I've read, it appears that the Alpha type engine would be capable of the most power, but on the other hand is also prone to most friction.

A little bit about me: I got off petroleum a few years ago when I started producing biodiesel in my garage, now I'd like to get off the electric company's grid. At this point, I have an ample quantity of glycerine, which is the bi-product of biodiesel production and can be burned to power the stirling engine.

I would very much appreciate it if someone could point me in the right direction, ie, which type of sterling engine would be best suited for my application. Also, please let me know if you think that my thinking is way off. Thank you in advance and I look forward to your advice.