Where would you find materials to build this stirling engine?

Question

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rr8g62rM7dM&feature=related

This is a stirling engine. Many others look like this on YouTube, but where are these people finding these materials. Are they making them?

Answer 1

The normal way is to buy the metal from a local dealer. They sell plate, I beams, pipe, solid bar stock, etc. I have a buddy that buys at a junkyard for way cheaper.

The engines are made from the raw stock using machine tools. Most of the parts are turned, i.e. made on a lathe. A vertical milling machine is also useful. Google them both to read the wikipedia explanations. You might be able to use some at school, though not many middle or high schools have machine shops anymore.

You could also might be able to find a hobbyist to help you, maybe a neighbor or uncle. Usually, retired guys love to teach their skills to younger folks.

Worst case, you might be able to buy a small light duty used lathe for $100 or $200 dollars; a heavy duty drill press can be used as a cheap vertical mill with modest accuracy.