Stirling engines have unique advantages including a high thermal efficiency, preferable exhaust gas characteristics, multi-fuel usage and low noise and vibration. On the other hand, heat pump systems are very attractive because of their potential to save energy and their applicability to space heating and industrial usage. This paper introduces the recognized merits of efficient and environmental-friendly Stirling-driven vapor-compression (SDVC) systems. The differences between SDVC systems and conventional systems are discussed from the aspects of performance and operating cost. The results show SDVC systems have many advantages. This paper also mentions the future R&D which will be required to realize more attractive SDVC systems including the initial cost issues and several advanced technologies for SDVC. The Lorenz cycle and flash gas removal technologies for heat pump cycle are introduced as such advanced SDVC technologies.
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