Efficient JP-8 Burners for Soldier Portable Stirling Power Systems

Precision Combustion, Inc (PCI) proposes to develop a scalable lightweight and efficient JP-8 burner for generating electrical power from Stirling engine systems. Successful development will result in highly efficient, ultra-compact, fuel-flexible burners, scalable, with high power density, capable of operation for 1000’s of hours, and enabling an overall maximized JP-8 to electric efficiency based on burner efficiency exceeding 80%. The approach combines an innovative catalyst technology, novel heat flux techniques, a low pressure drop recuperator, and a unique JP-8 injection system. In Phase I, PCI developed and demonstrated burner feasibility for an 160 We FPSE based power generation system. In Phase II, PCI proposes to develop and fabricate the Microlith based Stirling Burner concept developed in Phase I for integration with a Stirling engine. Burner efficiency will exceed 80%, and the burner will be designed for scalability to larger Stirling engines and for battlefield serviceability (e.g. catalyst and/or burner replacement). 3000 hour life capability with high sulfur fuels as well as operation on diesel and propane fuels will be examined.