Sterling engines in power plants: how about it ?
now in thermal power plants, which employ boilers and turbines, how about replacing the boiler shell with a giant sterling engine.
the main shaft of the engine can run the generator. the shaft will also drive a cooling fan, which will be positioned parallel to the top region of the engine cylinder. this region of the cylinder can have circumferential fins welded to it, and the fan can blow air, exactly on it.
by this idea, i think we are eliminating the equipment such as turbines, circulating pumps, economizers, etc.
what do you guys think of it ? any pros and cons associated with this ? any modifications you would like to add ?