Experimental and Numerical Study of the Stirling Engine Robust Foil Regenerator

Abstract

Experimental and Numerical Study of the Stirling Engine Robust Foil Regenerator Koji Yanaga Conventional electricity generation wastes more than two thirds of its thermal energy while generating electricity. Combined Heat and Power (CHP) systems are an efficient energy conversion technology, which generate electricity and useful thermal energy simultaneously by utilizing waste energy for space heating and sanitation. One system that is suitable for CHP is the Stirling engine. Because of the simple design, flexible heat source (solar, biomass, waste heat), high thermal to electricity conversion efficiency, and high reliability, the Stirling engine is expected to be one of the best candidates for the applications in the future. It was the biggest challenge in my life to come to the US and earn a Ph.D. degree at West Virginia University. The challenge would not have been overcome without all the support I received from my adviser, thesis committee members, friends, girlfriend, and my family. In the following paragraphs, I would like to show my appreciation to all the people who supported me. Firstly, I would like to give my utmost appreciation, and thanks to my academic advisor Dr. Songgang Qiu for all the support he gave me throughout my time at WVU. Without his advice and financial supports through my Ph.D. process, I would definitely not have earned my Ph.D. degree.