Advanced Regenerators for Cryocoolers

Phase II will demonstrate the predicted performance improvements in stirling and Gifford-McMahon cryocoolers utilizing a modified parallel plate geometry in the regenerator. This will be accomplished by performing a series of tests in which the dimensionsof the regenerative matrix are varied about the design point to experimentally maximize the cryocooler coefficient of performance. The technique to manufacture the parallel plate geometry will be refined and automated. These experiments will be conductedon a striling cryocooler operating between fifty and sixty Hertz as well as a Gifford-McMahon operating at lower frequencies. The ability to manufacture and implement high heat capacity material in the proposed configuration and corresponding performanceimprovements will also be examined. The analytical techniques and optimization procedures will be modified and improved based on these experimental results to facilitate future designs. After performance improvements have been demonstrated, CCI will offercustom regenerators to cryocooler manufacturers or team with them to provide high efficiency cryocoolers for commecial and military applications.