Performance analysis and optimization of high capacity pulse tube refrigerator

High capacity pulse tube refrigerator (HCPTR) is a new generation of cryocoolers tailored to provide more than 250 W of cooling power at cryogenic temperatures. The most important characteristics of HCPTR when compared to other types of pulse tube refrigerators are a powerful pressure wave generator, and an accurate design. In this paper the influence of geometrical and operating parameters on the performance of a double inlet pulse tube refrigerator (DIPTR) is studied. The model is validated with the existing experimental data. As a result of this optimization, a new configuration of HCPTR is proposed. This configuration provides 335 W at 80 K cold end temperature with a frequency of 50 Hz and COP of 0.05.

Research highlights
► Operating parameters of a high capacity pulse tube refrigerator (HCPTR) is studied.
► The model is validated with the existing experimental data.
► A new configuration of HCPTR is proposed.
► This configuration provides 335 W at 80 K cold end temperature and a COP of 0.05.