Numerical analysis of an OPTR: Optimization for space applications

► A co-axial type OPTR is simulated using computational fluid dynamics. ► Navier-Stokes equations simulate the gas flow and heat transfer characteristics. ► A non-equilibrium heat transfer model is used in the porous media. ► Void/gas in the cold head leads to increased cool-down times. ► The performance can be improved by decreasing void volume in porous media zones.