A numerical method to evaluate heat exchangers performance of external combustion engine

The results of a computer simulation of the three-dimensional steady-state operation of heat exchangers suitable for the Stirling engine are presented. The temperature, pressure and velocity distribution in the heater have been examined and compared with the experimental data collected by a prototype electrical heater. The results are in good agreement with predicted values. The satisfactory results reached by the simulation code allow its application to other components of Stirling engines and makes it possible to improve the lambda-method simulation model.<>