Split Stirling cycle Cryogenic Refrigerator.
Abstract
The object of this program was to develop a Split-Stirling cycle cooler capable of producing .6 watts of refrigeration in a 120 F ambient with 28 Vdc input power of less than 90 watts. System weight objective is less than 3.5 pounds, separation between expander and compressor is 18 in. and the unit is to be nearly inaudible. One of the primary goals of the program was to develop a cooler that would be simple to construct and have low production cost. The approach was to develop a compressor incorporating linear motors and use this to actuate a miniature pneumatically actuated expander. The separate expander permits greater flexibility in incorporating it in an IR detector system and also permits isolation of the compressor vibration. The development of the compressor with linear motors proved to be very difficult. The program was carried to the point where enough of the problems were resolved so that a fair evaluation could be made of the future potential of this approach. Comparison of this compressor system with others under development at the contracting agency showed that it was not worth pursuing further development of this unit for this application. At this time the prototype unit demonstrated the practicality of the basic cycle and independent tests of the expander indicated it was operating well.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1974
- Accession Number
- AD0920029
Entities
People
- Ralph C. Longsworth