Recuperator for SWaP-C Sensitive Cryocooler Applications

Superconducting radiofrequency receivers, optical absorption energy sensors, and quantum computers have the potential to revolutionize digital communications for UAVs and satellites. Development of low size, weight, power, and cost (SWaP-C) cryocooler technology is essential since these communication systems must operate at cryogenic temperatures. An attractive cryocooler option for these applications is turbo-Brayton cryocoolers which have high performance at low temperatures. For these cryocoolers, high performance recuperators are needed to transfer heat between the high and low pressure gas streams to reduce the required cryocooler input power and provide cooling at the low operating temperatures of the communication device components. The SWaP-C of the cryocooler is highly dependent on the recuperator characteristics. We propose to develop a compact, lightweight, and low cost recuperator focusing on the temperature range between 4 K and 25 K. In Phase I, we will size the recuperator core components through thermal performance analysis, perform fabrication trials for key features and processes, and assess manufacturing costs. In Phase II, we will build and test a prototypical recuperator.