Breezy, A Stirling Fan

New 3/15/99

Is it a fan?

Is it two fans?

Well, actually it is three fans. I decided on triplets because we needed a demonstration Stirling for DeKalb Tech's Machine Tools Club, I wanted one for myself, and I wanted to make one for my son, who loves things mechanical as much as I do. The basic design is from Jim Senft - his "Moriya", plans of which are available from him. I modified his design somewhat. The base is similar to one made by Tim Johnson (see the Prime Report), and the blade guard is reminiscent of those used on fans from the '20's and '30's. I fire them with a miniature Bunsen Burner (that's a story for a future page) or an alcohol burner made from a doorknob.

Incidentally, the pretty flowers in the background above are on one of our camellias. The blooms are spectacular this year, with buds the size of golf balls, and blossoms nearly 6" across. If you haven't been to Atlanta in the spring, you have missed a treat. (We have received no compensation from the Atlanta Chamber of Commerce for this advertisement  - the cheapskates!)

Two of the three fans work wonderfully well, while number three is at present a bit sluggish. I use graphite pistons, and this one is a bit snug, I think. A bit more tinkering should see all three running like the wind (if you will pardon the expression!).

Following are a few more photos. As usual, just click on the photo for a larger view (this includes the two photos above, too).