Compact Microchannel Recuperators for Cryogenic Coolers

High-capacity, reverse-Brayton cryocoolers will enable the Navy to use high-temperature superconducting (HTS) systems to provide compact, lightweight, high-performance systems for ship degaussing and minesweeping. These cryocoolers need high-performance, recuperative heat exchangers for efficient operation, but conventional recuperators are too large, too heavy, and too expensive. To enable the use of HTS systems, we propose to develop an innovative cryogenic recuperator that is small, lightweight, and inexpensive. In the Base phase, we will develop a prototype recuperator through multiple design/build/test cycles. In the Option phase, we will integrate the recuperator with a compressor and expander to demonstrate operation of a high-capacity, reverse-Brayton cryocooler.