Abstract
A rotary multi-bed active magnetic regenerator (AMR) device was modified
to allow testing different fluid flow waveforms, with different blow
fractions (i.e. the fraction of the AMR cycle when there is fluid flow
in the regenerators). The different values of blow fraction were
generated using different cam rings that actuate the poppet valves at
the inlet and outlet of the regenerators, controlling how long the
valves stay open and the number of valves open at the same time. Results
showed that smaller blow fractions yield higher values of temperature
span for fixed flow rate and cooling capacity, but lower values of
coefficient of performance for the same conditions. An analysis of the
shaft and pumping powers showed that shorter blow fractions cause higher
pressure drop and higher torque oscillations and mechanical vibrations.
The highest value of second-law efficiency of 19.1% was obtained for
the largest blow fraction tested (80%). Designs for magnetic
refrigerators where the fluid flow waveform can change during operation
are also discussed in this paper.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Journal | International Journal of Refrigeration |
| Volume | 91 |
| Pages (from-to) | 46-54 |
| ISSN | 0140-7007 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 2018 |
Keywords
- Magnetic refrigeratio
- Regeneratior
- Experimentation
- Efficiency