Stirling Engine

A Stirling engine is an external combustion engine. That is, it is an engine that gets its energy from an external heat source, in contrast to the internal combustion engine where the heat input is generated within the engine itself. The Stirling engine was invented in 1816 by Robert Stirling, who wanted to create an alternative to existing steam engines, whose boilers could often explode because of the high steam pressures used and the strength limitations of the materials available to engineers at the time.

There are many different models of Stirling Engines, but they all work on the same principle. Like some of the other models we’ve looked at, they’re nice little show pieces and also great educational tools. This particular model is the cheapest of all the models we’ve looked at here so is excellent value. And it works well when placed over a mug of tea!

• Fuel: Hot Air
• Dimensions: 10cm x 10cm x 12cm
• Type: Model