A model for the parametric analysis and optimization of inertance tube pulse tube refrigerators

Abstract

A first order model developed for the design analysis and optimization of Inertance Tube Pulse Tube Refrigerators (ITPTRs) is integrated with the code NIST REGEN 3.2 capable of modeling the regenerative heat exchangers used in ITPTRs. The model is based on the solution of simultaneous non-linear differential equations representing the inertance tube, an irreversibility parameter model for the pulse tube, and REGEN 3.2 to simulate the regenerator. The integration of REGEN 3.2 is accomplished by assuming a sinusoidal pressure wave at the cold side of the regenerator. In this manner, the computational power of REGEN 3.2 is conveniently used to reduce computational time required for parametric analysis and optimization of ITPTRs. The exergy flow and exergy destruction (irreversibility) of each component of ITPTRs is calculated and the effect of important system parameters on the second law efficiency of the refrigerators is presented. © 2008 American Institute of Physics.