Explore the principles of thermodynamics with the SB-STLSP Stirling Engine Model, a functional external combustion engine designed for physics demonstrations, STEM education, hobby research, and desktop display.
Originally invented by Robert Stirling in 1816, the Stirling engine operates through repeated heating and cooling cycles of gas to generate mechanical motion. This model demonstrates the classic hot air engine principle using an alcohol lamp heat source and a horizontal flywheel structure for smooth and visible operation.
Constructed from aluminum alloy, quartz glass, and acrylic materials, the model combines educational functionality with an attractive mechanical appearance suitable for students, science enthusiasts, collectors, and engineering hobbyists.
Features
-
Functional Stirling engine external combustion model
-
Demonstrates thermal expansion and contraction principles
-
Horizontal flywheel design for smooth mechanical operation
-
Quartz heating tube and quartz glass power piston
-
Aluminum alloy flywheel, support, and cylinder head
-
Acrylic base for lightweight and rust-resistant support
-
Suitable for physics experiments and STEM learning
-
Desktop science display and collectible mechanical model
-
Suitable for science enthusiasts and hobbyists
Stirling Engine Principle
The Stirling engine was invented by Robert Stirling in 1816. It operates by repeatedly heating and cooling gas inside the engine. Heated gas expands to drive the piston, while cooled gas contracts, creating continuous cyclic motion.
As an external combustion engine, fuel burns continuously outside the cylinder while the expanding gas powers piston movement.
Instructions for Use
-
Place the engine model on a level surface.
-
Install the heating tube onto the heating cylinder head carefully while rotating slowly during installation to avoid damaging the sealing ring and heating tube. Keep the heating tube parallel after installation to prevent friction between the displacement piston and heating tube.
-
Remove the alcohol lamp cap and fill the lamp to approximately 2/3 capacity using pure alcohol only. Do not use other fuels. Ignite the alcohol lamp safely.
-
Heat for approximately 20 seconds, then the flywheel can begin rotating.
-
Do not touch high-temperature areas during operation.
Specifications
-
Product Type: Stirling Engine Model
-
Material: Aluminum Alloy + Quartz Glass + Acrylic
-
Heating Tube Material: Quartz Tube
-
Power Cylinder Material: 6065 Aluminum Alloy
-
Power Piston Material: Quartz Glass
-
Base Material: Acrylic
-
Support Material: Aluminum Alloy
-
Flywheel Material: 6065 Aluminum Alloy
-
Flywheel Diameter: 50 mm
-
Piston Diameter: 16 mm
-
Piston Stroke: 16 mm
-
Heating Tube Inner Diameter: 15.85 mm
-
Product Size: 160 × 80 × 80 mm
-
Net Weight: 226 g
-
Gross Weight: 326 g
-
Recommended Age: 16+
-
Quantity: 1 Piece
Safety Notes
-
Do not touch the heated quartz tube or connected metal parts during or after operation to avoid burns.
-
Avoid touching the alcohol lamp during prolonged heating.
-
Suitable for ages 16 and above. Users under 16 should operate under adult supervision.
-
During heating, ensure the alcohol lamp wick does not touch the heating tube.
-
Do not apply oil to the piston.
-
Lubricating oil may be applied to both ends of the connecting rod only.
-
The engine operates at high speed; prevent vibration or falling during operation.
Package Includes
-
1 × Stirling Engine Model