A Parametric Optimization of a Single Stage Regenerator Using REGEN 3.2

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A Parametric Optimization of a Single Stage Regenerator Using REGEN 3.2

Pfotenhauer, J. M. / Shi, J. L. / Nellis, G. F.

Abstract Regenerative heat exchangers define the crucial design component for high frequency cryocoolers such as Stirling and Pulse Tube refrigerators. To aid in their design, a parametric investigation has been carried out using the NIST code REGEN3.2 to optimize a single-stage regenerator operating with a warm end temperature of 300 K and a cold end temperature that varies between 60 and 80 K. The matrix choice in all the calculations is 400-mesh stainless steel. The optimization has been defined by maximizing the COP as a function of geometry, mass flow, and the phase between the cold-end mass flow and pressure. We have conducted the optimization investigation over a frequency range of 30 — 60 Hz using a constant average pressure of 20 bar and a pressure ratio of 1.2. Regenerator performance—defined by net cooling power, COP and losses—is presented along with the optimized parameters of geometry, mass flux, and phase angle as a function of cold end temperature and frequency in order to provide convenient design charts for single-stage regenerators. Additionally, first order design approximations are explored such as the dependence of the optimized length on end temperature conditions alone, and the independence of an optimized mass flux over a wide range of cooling power.