Embedded Files
Energy conversion
Energy conversion
The Stirling engine converts thermal energy (from burning alcohol in on the cotton ball) to mechanical energy due to the expansion of air inside the test tube. The small aluminum piston was machined according to the inside diameter of the brass cylinder in order to create a vacuum seal that allows the system to be entirely contained. The piston to the right oscillates so hard that the vibration moves the engine across the table.
Passing it on
Passing it on
I completed the Stirling engine project as part of ME1800, the introductory manufacturing course at WPI. I programmed each part in the Esprit CAM software, and then ran them during labs on HAAS CNC mills and lathes. After completing the course, I became a TA to help other students complete their Stirling engines and get a taste of CNC manufacturing.
Adapted curriculum
Adapted curriculum
During COVID-19, the ME1800 course was moved online for safety reasons. For the spring term, I spend the last few days of winter break machining Stirling engine parts and assembling 60 lab kits for the students to use while campus was closed.
A completed lab kit for remote students
Tool and materials
Tool and materials
HAAS Mini Mill
HAAS ST-10 Lathe
Horizontal Bandsaw
Esprit CAM
Bore Micrometer
Collaborators
Collaborators
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