Motion from Heat
When heat is applied to a container holding a reversible metal hydride alloy, the stored hydrogen is released from the alloy under pressure. The gas pressure can push a piston, creating a powerful linear motion in a mechanical system. In the same way, when the container is cooled, the hydrogen re-enters the metal hydride, causing linear motion of the piston in the opposite direction. For rotating motion, the pressurized hydrogen can spin a turbine or pneumatic motor.
Ergenics has used the properties of reversible metal hydride alloys in a number of heat engines. The mechanical motion has been used to open and close valves, pump water from the ground and make electricity. The newest invention, the Solar Powered Electric Generator, can begin to solve the world’s energy problems today.
| Solar Powered Electric Generator | Solar Water Pump | Temperature Sensor-Actuator | ||
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