Thermodynamic modeling and controlling of a combined Free Piston Stirling Engine System (FPSE) with a Permanent Magnet Linear Synchronous Machine (PMLSM)

Abstract Converting thermal energy to electricity is one of the most common energy conversions in the field of electricity production. This transformation of energy is essential for both renewable and non-renewable heat sources. One of the main parameters of such a system that is responsible for this conversion is its efficiency. To have an efficient transformation, many improvements have been made to the old methods, and also new techniques were developed. One of these new methods that will be discussed here is a combined system of a Free Piston Stirling Engine (FPSE) with a Permanent Magnet Linear Synchronous Machine (PMLSM). The two purposes of presenting such a system are that firstly, the theoretical efficiency of a Stirling engine is high. Secondly, by eliminating crank-shaft from this system compared to the standard Stirling engine system, some of the losses will be removed. To study this system, a thermodynamic model of a RE-1000 FPSE was presented and validated. Then it was coupled with a PMLSM, and the combined system was controlled. The total efficiency of this system in steady-state is 14.4%.