From: Killspam@invalid.kill   
      
   "Rick"  wrote in message   
   news:j9ral4$10g$1@dont-email.me...   
      
   > "The Stirling engine is noted for its high efficiency compared to steam   
   > engines, quiet operation, and the ease with which it can use almost any   
   > heat source.   
   > This compatibility with alternative and renewable energy sources has   
   > become increasingly significant as the price of conventional fuels rises,   
   > and also in light of concerns such as peak oil and climate change.   
   > This engine is currently exciting interest as the core component of micro   
   > combined heat and power (CHP) units, in which it is more efficient and   
   > safer than a comparable steam engine."   
      
   For auto use the Stirling was big, heavy and slow to respond, but far more   
   efficient than an IC engine. The response was the prime drawback. AMC nearly   
   introduced a Stirling car in the 1970s, claiming the response was overcome   
   somewhat. For only turning a constant speed generator in a hybrid and no   
   other function - range extender - they are starting to make sense. Instant   
   response is then not an issue. The freewheeling piston design Stirling is   
   small enough these day for such an application - pending R&D. The external   
   combustion is far cleaner than explosions in a cylinder as in ICE engines.   
   Highly efficient condensing burning is possible as in gas and oil boilers.   
      
   --- SoupGate-Win32 v1.05   
    * Origin: you cannot sedate... all the things you hate (1:229/2)