Research Note: Vibrations Resulting from Thermal Conduction between Non-Rigid Contacting Bodies

Abstract

A piece of metal which has few points of contact when standing on a plane surface, and which will rock when disturbed, will continue rocking indefinitely if a sufficient temperature difference is maintained between the metal and the plane. By analysing the thermal conduction between the points of contact, the work output and thermal efficiency of the rocker are calculated. A survey of materials shows that ceramic-metal interfaces are capable of high work output. Vibrations between components made of these materials could thus be sustained by this mechanism.