Thermomechanical generator: an efficient means of converting heat to electricity at low power levels

This paper reports results of research at Harwell on thermal energy conversion, which has led to the successful development of an efficient heat engine/alternator system 1 capable of delivering several tens of watts of alternating current. It has no rotating or sliding surfaces, so requires no lubrication, and is believed to be capable of operating continuously for many years without wear or need for attention. It is capable of using heat from a variety of sources and is self starting on application of heat. An electrically heated laboratory model is delivering 25 W a.c. with an overall conversion efficiency of 13%