Development of Distributed Heat and Power Cogeneration System Integrated by Gasifier, Stirling Engine and Absorption Cooler

This study proposes a biomass power and heat cogeneration system that comprised of a gasifier, Stirling engine/alternator, and absorption cooler. Gasification is the most versatile approach to utilize biomass for the flexibility and affectivity of this technology. The flue gas from the combustion of the gasified gas propels a free-piston Stirling engine/alternator, which produces 50 or 60 Hz alternating current as output. The absorption cooler absorbs the residual heat from the flue gas after Stirling engine's hot end and produces low temperature energy. This cold energy could be used to satisfy air conditioning requirement or be directed to the cold end of Stirling engine to further increase the power efficiency of the Stirling engine. The solid biomass rice husks were tested in this study, in addition, the current power and heat cogeneration system's gross output exceeded the rated 500w engine gross output for this tested feeds. The total efficiency of this system was approaching to 46%.