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Thermoacoustic refrigerator for space applications.

Author(s) : GARRETT S. L., ADEFF J. A., HOFLER T. J.

Type of article: Article

Summary

A new spacecraft cryocooler which uses resonant high-amplitude sound waves in inert gases to pump heat is described. The phasing of the thermoacoustic cycle is provided by thermal conduction. This "natural" phasing allows the entire refrigerator to operate with only one moving part (the loudspeaker diaphragm). A space qualified thermoacoustic refrigerator was flown on the space shuttle Discovery (STS 42) in January, 1992. It was entirely autonomous, had no sliding seals, required no lubrication, used mostly low tolerance machined parts, and contains no expensive components. Thermoacoustics is shown to be a competitive candidate for food refrigerator/freezer and commercial/residential air conditioners. The design and performance of the space thermoacoustic refrigerator is described.

Details

  • Original title: Thermoacoustic refrigerator for space applications.
  • Record ID : 1995-0681
  • Languages: English
  • Source: J. Thermophys. Heat Transf. - vol. 7 - n. 4
  • Publication date: 1993/10
  • Document available for consultation in the library of the IIR headquarters only.

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