Who makes Stirling engines?

Stirling engines are a type of heat engine that works using gas, like air or helium. Unlike diesel engines (working on fuel), such engine models can be operated via just air pressure, thus they are quiet and safe for little DIY enthusiasts and beginners. So, if you are curious to know who makes such fascinating models, then you have come to the right place.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top manufacturers of sterling engines, whether for DIY enthusiasts or for real grade. So, be with us!

Top manufacturers and Suppliers of Stirling Engines

Practically all Stirling engines function by heating and cooling air or helium gases within a confined space. They are useful in diverse applications ranging from classroom use to solar energy plants. In this part, we will look at the top manufacturers for better decision-making.

DIY Kit & Educational Firms

These companies create and sell Stirling engine kits that are safe and simple to use for kids, classrooms, and even for a science club. The blend of engaging activities and hands-on projects supports the development of essential STEM skills.

1. Enginediy

   EngineDIY is a top worldwide distributor of DIY engine kits. Some of their models are for display while others are fully functional and can be used for educational purposes.

   

   On their site, you can find all kinds of Engines;

   
   

   • Ancient Steam Engines

   • Hit and Miss engine

   • Gasoline Engine ( 2, 4, 8, and even 12 Cylinders ) 

   • Diesel Engine

   • Jet Engine

   • Motorcycle Engine

   • DIY Stirling engines 

   
   

   We also have different types of Stirling engines, each with their own specifications. Let’s have a closer look!

   Stirling Engines by EngineDIYi) Desktop Stirling engine: This Stirling engine kit is made up of Aluminum Alloy + stainless steel. Thus, ensuring durability over time. Also, it's lightweight, just 460g, thus kids can easily handle this.
   

   ii) 2-cylinder Stirling engine: As the name suggests, it comes with 2 pistons(cylinders), one moves the hot air while the other aids in converting that heat into motion. The specialty of these products is that they come with a LED bulb, so when you light the alcohol burner, it works like a charm and lights the bulb. 

   Thus, it's great for classroom teaching, helping kids to foster creativity and interest in the physics subject.
   

   iii) Low Temperature Stirling Engine: The amazing thing about this type of engine is that you don't need any fuel, burner, etc to run it. You just need a coffee cup and place the engine on it. Thus, it's great for kids aged 8 and older. Moreover, it's a completely green project as no fuel is needed. Also, it weighs only 250 g.

   Moreover, our product is made up of stainless steel; thus, it's very durable, and there is no fear of breakage by kids.
   

   Besides this, you can also find other STEM models like Tesla coil, electromagnetic motors, generator, solar magnetic levitation motor, and much more. That’s not all, they have engine-powered RC vehicles which include cars, helicopters, excavators, boats, tanks, etc.

   So, if anyone is looking to buy a single kit or in bulk, do visit their site, and you will find everything in one place at wholesale prices.

2. Sunnytech (China/USA)

   Sunnytech is a reliable brand that manufactures eye-catching Stirling engine kits, which are fully assembled and can be operated for educational or exhibition purposes. They design stylish engines using brass, glass, and stainless steel, often with spinning flywheels and LED lights. 

   Their models are fun to watch and simple to use—just add heat from a candle or cup. Sunnytech creates its kits in partnership with suppliers and retails them through Amazon and other platforms. Their remarkable as well as stunning creations are admired by many students, as well as hobbyists.
   

3. Thames & Kosmos (Germany/USA)

   Thames & Kosmos is a famous manufacturer of educational, fun science kits for kids and schools. Some of the configurations are Stirling-like engines, for example, in the Fuel Cell Car & Energy Lab. 

   Their designs are from Germany, and they build the kits with reputable partners. Although it does not specialize in Stirling engines, their kits enable you to understand how real engines and energy systems function.
   

4. Böhm Stirling-Technik (Germany)

   Böhm Stirling-Technik (Germany) is a high-quality Stirling engine manufacturer with a reputation for operating high-precision, handcrafted Stirling engines. Böhm makes stunning desktop engines that are a blend of technical mastery and art. 

   They make kits that are functional and suited for everyone, starting from teachers, hobby builders, and fierce collectors. For all his clients, Böhm makes the pieces from brass and stainless steel, which makes them durable and ensures their function. 
   

    

   Böhm Stirling-Technik is one of the top manufacturers if you seek operable pieces of art and engineering masterpieces.

5. Kontax(UK)

   This UK-based Company is well known for elegant desktop Stirling engines. Their glass-chambered engines are well known in educational institutions, museums, and laboratories around the world. They grab the attention of everyone and serve as great gifts for physics or mechanics enthusiasts.
   

Why are these beneficial?

These little devices are practical to use and need only warm water or alcohol burners for operation. This makes the kits safe and simple, making them perfect for inquisitive hands to operate.

Hence, they are suitable for kids as well as anyone inclined towards science. Most come with guides that can be followed step-by-step, while some even have glowing LEDs. If the thrill of construction, learning, and observation excites you, then these kits are tailor-made for you.  

However, on Quora, different people have shared their opinions about their usage. One of them, named Warren Schoettlin, has shared his personal experience about whether the Stirling engine is our future or not. Well! According to him, they are a little expensive and require regular maintenance.  

So, because of these factors, he said that large-scale solar collectors running stirling engines are going to be a thing.

What to Consider Before Buying a Stirling Engine Kit?

Purchasing personal-use Stirling engine kits or industrial models can be very attractive. No matter what the purpose or size of your engine is, here are a few things to consider.  

Planning: First of all, plan how you want to use the engine. For instance, if your objective is learning and having some fun, a DIY kit will work best for you. Buy decorative models that are eye-catching if it is for display. 

Heat source: It is also important to consider the type. Low-temperature engines can be powered by warm water or a coffee cup. For children and beginners, these types of engines are great.  

Material and Build Quality: Moreover, I would recommend considering is what kind of material the engine is made of. This is because engines that contain brass, stainless steel, or glass components have a longer lifespan. These display components will help everything function better.  

Ease of Assembly or Setup: Now, consider how simple it is to construct or install using basic tools. Some also provide a step-by-step construction module to help you build the model.

Warranty, Support, and Spare Parts: As your last concern, always check what type of support the seller provides. Trustworthy sellers usually provide manuals, additional documents, parts, and warranty service. 

For novices and enthusiasts alike, EngineDIY is an e-commerce platform that focuses on a global audience, offering curated engine kits for purchase.

We feature and sell several products, including Do-it-yourself (DIY) internal combustion engines, Stirling engine kit,  steam engines, RC engines, engine models, and even Tesla coils, as well as 3D metal models.

Final Verdict

From all the above discussion, we have concluded that there are different manufacturers and suppliers of Stirling engines, whether you want to buy a DIY model kit or just for exhibition. However, you have to consider different things in mind before buying, like ease of assembly, warranty, and the material quality.

For a wide and dependable range of Stirling engines and their accessories, kindly visit EngineDIY. We have everything from low temperature to high performance engines, along with superb customer care and international shipping.