Development and performance evaluation of a single stage travelling-wave thermo-acoustic generator

Abstract

Thermo-acoustic systems are being considered as a potential solution for electricity generation. This work describes the construction of a single stage travelling-wave thermo-acoustic generator. Secondly, an experimental investigation into the effect of the heat source on the potential of the device for electricity generation is performed. The magnitude of the sound generated by the engine, the onset time and the magnitude of electricity generated by the linear alternator have been considered as performance indicators for the device developed. This paper provides clarity on the potential for thermo-acoustic system for sound-to-electricity conversion. Clear trends showing the effect of inputs parameters on device performance have been disclosed. The minimum/maximum amount of heat that has produced a sound was 339/634° C corresponding to sound of 114.0/114.13 dB and a voltage of 278/319 mV. Although the efficiency of the sound-to-electricity conversion was low, this work proves the viability of thermo-acoustic as the alternative solution for electricity generation.