Alternate Fuel Sources

The purpose of this project is to explore alternative power sources. The project will be completed in three phases. First, a comparative power analysis of fuel efficiency will be conducted. To maximize consistency, each fuel source will utilize the same independent mechanical setup. This setup will allow different fuels and methods of delivery to be tested and measured without change to its configuration. To achieve this, an external combustion engine, named for its external rather than internal heat exchanger, utilizing a Stirling cycle will be manufactured. Second, this engine will then be assembled into a working mechanical system optimizing mechanical efficiency by reducing damping forces (such as friction, vibration, etc…) and maximizing heat transfer. Lastly, this setup will test and evaluate different fuels, helping to structure the design of a new engine prototype