Great For Schools: The DStar Basic Stirling Engine

DStar engines can be used at schools for demonstrating thermodynamics and mechanical functions. This educational DStar Basic Stirling Engine model is commonly used during physics class and they can be seen normally at schools offering engineering and other mechanical courses. This machine also illustrates a thermodynamic cycle similar to the most efficient heat engine cycle, the Carnot cycle.

How does it work?
The DStar Basic Stirling Engine demonstrates the conversion of heat energy into mechanical energy giving it the ability to do mechanical work. This machine can also demonstrate kinetic energy, electric potential energy, and electrical energy to the students since it has the ability to generate electricity for renewable heat sources (like the sunlight), recharge some portable electronic devices like cellular phones, and it can also be used as a heat pump.

Why is it great to use at school?
This model is portable, so it can be moved anywhere (either in front of the class or at the student’s desk)

  • It’s not that heavy either so it’s easy to carry.
  • The fuel used for this educational DStar Basic Stirling Engine are alcohols, which is available at all chemistry and physics laboratories inside your school
  • Very easy to use, both the students and teachers can easily operate this model
  • The heat source is placed outside the engine, so there’s no need for reassembling the machine
  • Can be used to demonstrate the Carnot cycle so that the students can see how it looks like in an actual situation

This can also be used to demonstrate how a steam engine works during history class, especially when it’s about the history of old machinery. It may not completely resemble the traditional steam engine nor does it function in a similar way, but it gives a good representation due to its traditional design.