Possibilities of Applications of Stirling Engine in Cogeneration Systems

Abstract

This study takes into account engines working in Stirling cycles in cogeneration systems. Stirling engines have been selected because of their characteristics of exploitation. The possibility of their use in cogeneration systems is more favourable in comparison with other combustion engines because they can avoid usage of industrial and transport fuels. The Stirling engines enable the use of biomass, agricultural and other waste energy sources in micro tri-and cogeneration plants dedicated for the use in agriculture and forestry. Considering such applications, three types of usage structures of Stirling engines are proposed. All three structures are dedicated to install in small residential or farm buildings. These three types of structure are named: "type master", "type slave" and "type customer". In accordance with the proposed structures, different types of engine constructions are discussed, too. At the same time, the authors described the dependences between Stirling engines and electric power energy systems. The arguments of grid power systems and dispersed energy resource in text were reviewed. After that overview, some legal problems are discussed. Finally, the conception of independent dispersed micro agropower system and some technical equipment were described. Technical realization of the proposed conception requires: proper type, installation and usage of Stirling engines and proper expectations of achieved results.