Observe the Steam Reaction of the Low Temperature Stirling Engine Coffee Cup
A Working Miniature Stirling Engine
Barely larger than a coffee cup, this accessory is nevertheless an authentic reproduction of a working Stirling engine. Discover the mechanical principles involved in the movement of the piston. You’ll develop a real understanding of the relationship that links each part to give rise to the mechanical action of this Stirling engine.
The magic of the low-temperature steam engine
This is a real work of art. With this model of low-temperature Stirling engine, you can admire the wheel turning under the effect of the steam released by a cup of hot water or coffee, for example. Above all, admire the meticulous care taken in finishing the transparent base, connectors, piston and even the wheel. It’s the perfect decorative accessory for those with a passion for science and mechanics.
Features of the Low Temperature Stirling Engine
- Materials : Stainless Steel, Brass and Glass
- Dimensions: 12.2 cm x 10.2 cm x 10.2 cm
- Speed : 180 rpm
- Style : Stirling engine
- Scientific gift idea
Frequently Asked Questions
What powers the engine?
Heat from a cup of hot water or coffee. Stand the engine on top of the cup and the warmth from below is enough to keep the wheel turning.
How does it work at such a low temperature?
It runs on the difference in temperature between its warm bottom plate and cooler top plate. Air inside moves between the two, expanding and contracting, and this drives the piston that turns the wheel.
How fast does the wheel turn?
The wheel can reach around 180 revolutions per minute, which is quick enough to make a lively display on your desk while your drink cools.
How big is it and what is it made of?
It measures 12.2 cm x 10.2 cm x 10.2 cm, barely larger than a coffee cup. It is made of stainless steel, brass and glass, with a transparent base so you can see the parts at work.
Who is it a good gift for?
It suits adults with an interest in mechanics, engines or physics, and makes a good Father’s Day, retirement or corporate gift for a desk.
Lab protocol What we guarantee with this order Carefully packed to arrive in one piece.
The Stirling engine, a fun and decorative object
If you love science and mechanics, discover our Stirling Engine collection, fascinating external combustion engines that combine high precision and quality. Ideal for decorating your home in a fun and original way. What's more, the vintage touch of this scientific object will add cachet to your decor.
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Helen Marsden –
Bought this for my 9-year-old after he got obsessed with how engines work. Put a freshly boiled cuppa underneath and within about a minute the flywheel started turning, slowly at first and then properly whizzing round. He sat watching it for ages, then dragged his dad over to explain why it works. I’d quite like to know myself now, the bit with the air expanding and cooling again is oddly hypnotic.
Craig Donnelly –
Works fine once going, but the instructions were only in a language I couldn’t read, so I had to look up a video to work out where the piston should sit. Took a few goes to get it spinning. Does what it says now, just a faff to begin with.
pauline atkinson –
Lovely little thing and it sits nicely on my desk with a hot mug of tea. Spins well when the water’s really hot, though it slows down as the drink cools, which I suppose is only to be expected. Nice talking point for visitors.
Mohammed Rahman –
Third gadget I’ve ordered from here and another good one. Arrived quickly, well wrapped, and the kids had it running within minutes. Bit pricey for what it is perhaps, but it’s well made and a cracking way to show them physics without a lecture.
Margaret Hollis –
bought this for my grandson Alfie who’s nine and he was glued to it. Set it on top of a mug of tea and the wheel started turning within a minute, and he squealed “Nana, it’s alive!” He’s now been asking to make everyone in the family a brew just to test it. Cracking little gift.
Daniel Prescott –
Spot on. Sits on a hot mug and the heat difference between the warm base and the cooler air above drives the piston, which turns the flywheel. Quite mesmerising to watch.