Numerical simulation of a GM-type pulse tube cryocooler system: Part II. Rotary valve and cold head

A simplified model to characterise a rotary valve is proposed. This model is used inside a complete GM-type pulse tube cryocooler (GMPTC) simulation including the compressor, rotary valve and cold head. The verification of the model is presented including the pressure wave, cooling power and COP by comparing the simulation results to the experimental data of an existing GMPTC system. The exergy losses produced by the compressor, rotary valve and cold head are discussed. This paper is aimed to propose a simulation method which can be applied to analyse and optimise a GMPTC cold head by using the characteristics of a specific compressor and rotary valve.