STIRLING ENGINE PROJECT
Stirling Engines
North American operated eight of STM Power’s 4 cylinder beta 25 kW generating units on Landfill Gas for a period of
approximately one year. During that period, the units achieved approximately 22 kW out of the 25 kW expected, with each of
Although the Stirling engine itself was unique in design, the units offered no advantage over, and were less reliable than, the
other conventional Caterpillar generating units operated by the North American.  The time to overhaul was also low,
approximately 10,000 hours, with 8760 hours in a year. They were, therefore, removed.

The generators and controls use on the Stirling units were conventional induction systems.  The units were placed on stands
(shown below) for ease of maintenance and to keep them out of snow.