I am very glad to find this forum. I have had an interest in stirling engines every since I learned what they were.. An engine that runs off temperature differences is simply amazing...
Anyway I tryed to build a crude can stirling engine a few years ago but couldnt get it to work... very frustrating. I'm guessing friction problems after reading this forum. Now that I have found somewhere that can provide help if needed I'm going to build another one. Another stirling I mean not another non working stirling
I think that I am going to try the jb weld piston simply because my machine shop (back porch) is somewhat lacking in tools.
Anyhow I was wondering if anyone has every tried mixing graphite powder with jb weld?? The kind that is mixed with epoxy as a filler to reduce friction?
Also what about the spray on graphite that dries into a solid lubricant?
Your probably right about your first non-working engine. Friction is the number one enemy followed closely by exessive leaks.
I mentioned mixing graphite with the epoxy long ago and got discouraging feedback? I never tried it but I thought it would be a good idea for those using epoxy pistons. Maybe you could lightly sprinkle it on the light grease coating before you add the epoxy? I'd say either way, give it a try.
If I remember right, the thought was that the epoxy would be contaminated and not set right? I would still be willing to experiment with it if I was going to make one that way. I've been using Airpots piston products in mine and I used a nylon spacer in a brass fitting on my first one (it worked) I know the epoxy works too from the postings here. It sure seems to me that graphite in the mix would be a good idea. Let us know how it turns out.
