Design Optimization and Analysis of Thermoacoustic Refrigerators

Thermoacoustic refrigeration, a novel technology, uses eco-friendly gases like helium, air or the mixture of noble gases as working substances in the absence of moving parts. The design, optimization and analysis of thermoacoustic refrigerators using helium and air as oscillating gases are discussed. Pure helium is chosen since it is proven as the best and economical working gas compared to the alternate pure or the mixture of noble gases. Air is chosen since it is abundant in nature and the least cost of the pressurized dry air cylinders. The design optimization strategies discussed in this paper serve as a guide for aspiring researchers in the design and development of thermoacoustic coolers. Cooling power as a function of stack diameter is discussed. Theoretical results of the optimized coolers are compared with DeltaEC simulation results for validation and are in agreement with each other. KCI Citation Count: 5