Abstract

An engine that utilises an external heat source, such as a solar energy, geothermal energy, waste heat, and/or burning of a fuel is provided. The engine has a piston located in a cylinder heated by the external heat source. Upon injection of a liquid into the heated cylinder, the liquid is vaporised, increasing pressure and providing power to the piston. Once the piston stroke is complete, the vapour is released and the piston returns to a position ready for injection again. In an embodiment, a cooling cylinder is provided which condenses the vapour into a liquid for injection into the heated cylinder. The engine may be utilised in conjunction with a steam turbine to convert water into steam, replacing a boiler while also providing additional work.

IPC Classes  ?

• F02G 1/043 - Hot gas positive-displacement engine plants of closed-cycle type the engine being operated by expansion and contraction of a mass of working gas which is heated and cooled in one of a plurality of constantly communicating expansible chambers, e.g. Stirling cycle type engines
• F01K 21/02 - Steam engine plants not otherwise provided for with steam generation in engine cylinders
• F02G 1/055 - Heaters or coolers