Stack/Heat-Exchanger Research for Thermoacoustic Heat Engines

Abstract

The goal of this project was to develop novel configurations of heat pumping elements and heat exchangers for thermoacoustic heat engines. The approach involved the use anisotropic systems employing innovative technology. The approach allowed a heat exchange fluid to flow directly across the heat pumping element of the thermoacoustic heat engine (the "stack'), eliminating the necessity of separate heat exchangers and improving efficiency. The research has led to a radically new design, which is robust (using stainless steel and durable materials), relatively easy to fabricate, an employs a filament array or "pin" stack. One patent has been awarded, and a second is in process. Several companies which can fabricate crucial components for future refrigerators were identified in the course of the research. The research formed the basis for a Ph.D. thesis.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Apr 07, 2002
Accession Number
ADA400800

Entities

People

  • Julian D. Maynard

Organizations

  • Pennsylvania State University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Sensors

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Acoustic Resonators
  • Acoustics
  • Capillary Tubes
  • Energy
  • Engines
  • Fluid Flow
  • Geometry
  • Heat Engines
  • Heat Exchangers
  • Heat Transfer
  • Heat Transfer Coefficients
  • Incompressible Flow
  • Materials
  • Measurement
  • Stainless Steel
  • Temperature Gradients
  • Thermal Conductivity

Readers

  • Combustion and Flow Dynamics.
  • Nanocomposite Materials Science
  • Systems Analysis and Design