PASCO SE-8575 VISIBLE STIRLING ENGINE - Manual (Page 8)

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The Visible Stirling Engine 012-06055A
®
Operating On Maximum Power
The way to get the most power out of the model SE-8575
is to increase the temperature difference between the top
and bottom plates. The maximum operating temperature
is 212°F and the minimum operating temperature is -40°F.
➤ NOTE: Do not apply direct flame to the unit!
The best way to achieve maximum power is to put boiling
water on the bottom (do not use a Bunsen burner) and ice
cubes on the top. Be careful not to get water down inside the
engine or on top of the piston. Water on the top of the LCD
thermometer is okay.
Propeller
Air Displacer
(90° out of phase from
the piston)
Yellow Foam
Air Displacer
Stirling Engine on a Cup of Hot Water
Operating with Hot Water
Water is a very good thermal transfer medium. The
visible Stirling engine will run well on a cup of hot water.
Does the water have to be in contact with the bottom of
the engine? No. Steam rising off the water and then
condensing on the bottom of the engine moves the heat
to the hot side of the engine. Here’s how to start the
engine in a hurry.
Fill a coffee mug about 1/3 full of hot tap water then
microwave it until the water is boiling vigorously. Place
the engine on the top of the coffee mug, wait 20 seconds,
and flip the prop in the direction indicated on the label.
This also works well with a clear water glass. Using a
clear glass has the added benefit of letting students see the
steam rise and the water condense on the bottom of the
engine. Make sure to use a glass that is safe for the
temperature of water you will be putting in it.
The engine should start immediately and run at a high
rate of speed.
Piston
Liquid Crystal Thermometer