Computational Fluid Dynamic Investigation of Loss Mechanisms in a Pulse-Tube Refrigerator

[摘要] In predicting Pulse-Tube Cryocooler (PTC) performance, One-Dimensional (1-D) PTR design and analysis tools such as Gedeon Associates SAGE® typically include models for performance degradation due to thermodynamically irreversible processes. SAGE®, in particular, accounts for convective loss, turbulent conductive loss and numerical diffusion "loss" via correlation functions based on analysis and empirical testing. In this study, we compare CFD and SAGE® estimates of PTR refrigeration performance for four distinct pulse-tube lengths. Performance predictions from PTR CFD models are compared to SAGE® predictions for all four cases. Then, to further demonstrate the benefits of higher-fidelity and multidimensional CFD simulation, the PTR loss mechanisms are characterized in terms of their spatial and temporal locations.

[发布机构] Applied Technology Associ., 1300 Britt St. SE, Albuquerque; NM; 87123-3353, United States^1;Glacier Technical Solutions, LLC, El Paso; TX; 79925, United States^2;Spacecraft Component Thermal Research Group, Air Force Research Labs Kirtland AFB, NM; 87117-5776, United States^3;University of New Mexico, Albuquerque; NM; 87131, United States^4

[效力级别] 物理学 [学科分类] 材料科学（综合）

[关键词] Correlation function;Design and analysis;Irreversible process;Performance degradation;Performance prediction;Pulse tube cryocoolers;Pulse tube refrigerators;Refrigeration performance