A high efficient energy converter with flex fuel potential

The free-piston linear generator (FPLG) is a high efficient energy converter. It is capable of converting chemical energy into electrical energy by using a combustion process. The FPLG can be used as an alternative energy converter for hybrid cars. The focus of this publication is to show the interesting advantages of the FPLG if used as decentral heat and power station. The first part of this publication explains the function and the characteristics of free-piston linear generators. After this basic consideration the paper focuses on the flex fuel potential. Then, the surrounding system (vehicle) and its effect on the FPLG and the linear generator are illustrated. This is important in order to understand the base for the dimensioning of the FPLG for vehicles. Afterwards, the sub system based development strategy is outlined. Following the presentation of the development strategy, the sub systems will be explained. Then the efficiency measurement's outcome of each sub system is presented. The next chapter focuses on the common challenges for combined heat and power (CHP) stations. After the description of the general requirements for CHP this paper explains the conformance to these requirements by the FPLG. A comparison to other CHP systems is drawn in order to present the potential of the FPLG. The challenges for the adaption of the FPLG for the use as combined heat and power stations are discussed in the last section of this chapter.