Design of simple refrigerating device for multiparametric analysis of the thermoacoustic cooling phenomenon

Abstract

Profound investigation of the thermoacoustic phenomenon, performed in the second half of 20th century, resulted in formulation of strategies for design of thermoacoustic cooling devices. Further research based on computational fluid dynamics modelling and utilization of approximation of non-linear effects improved the methodology and introduced basis for optimization. Nevertheless, due to simultaneous presence of quick acoustic phenomena, taking place within boundary layers of the working gas domain, and relatively slow heat transfer across heat exchangers, resulting in visible temperature difference, numerical modelling of the phenomenon is connected with high computational cost. Thus, experimental investigation remains vital for introduction of efficient coolers in the future. In the paper, the methodology of design of the simple device for multiparametric analysis of the thermoacoustic cooling is discussed. The brief review of common design strategies and their physical basis is presented. Essential challenges, concerning manufacturing of key components, as well as control and regulation of the setup, are indicated. Postponed strategy is summarized with introductory experimental investigation on the simple device prepared.