Performance characteristics of a regeneration Ericsson refrigeration cycle using a magnetic composite as the working substance

Thermodynamic performance analysis for a magnetic composite material in a regeneration Ericsson refrigeration cycle is presented in this article. The regeneration heats in the two regenerative processes of the Ericsson refrigeration cycle are usually non-perfect and this non-perfect regenerative quantity is calculated and analyzed. Furthermore, from the experimental data of iso-field heat capacities of Gd, Gd0.74Tb0.26, and (Gd3.5Tb1.5)Si4, thermodynamic performance of the corresponding composite material, based on these materials, in a regeneration Ericsson refrigeration cycle is evaluated and analyzed. Due to the non-perfect regeneration, the composite cooling quantity and coefficient of performance of the Ericsson refrigeration cycle decrease, but they are still larger than those of each of its compounds. The calculation method of the magnetic composite presented here can be used as a new basis for creating a new magnetic composite with better regeneration processes in the Ericsson refrigeration cycle.

► Composite isothermal entropy change is calculated based on its compounds.
► Composite non-perfect regenerative quantity calculation is provided and analyzed.
► Properties of regenerative magnetic Ericsson refrigeration cycle for the composite are determined.
►  Composite has better thermodynamics characteristics than its compounds.
► composite COP is close to Carnot COP.