Stirling Stuff

Robert Stirling's patent for what was essentially a new type of engine to create work from heat was submitted in 1816. Its reception was underwhelming and although the idea was sporadically developed, it was eclipsed by the steam engine and, later, the internal combustion engine. Today, though, the environmentally favourable credentials of the Stirling engine principles are driving a resurgence of interest, with modern designs using modern materials. These themes are woven through a historically based narrative that introduces Robert Stirling and his background, a description of his patent and the principles behind his engine, and discusses the now popular model Stirling engines readily available. These topical models, or alternatives made 'in house', form a good platform for investigating some of the thermodynamics governing the performance of engines in general.