Magnetically suspended Stirling cryogenic space refrigerator Test resultsIn 1979, a project leading to the development of a Stirling type cryogenic refrigerator for spaceborne application was initiated. The refrigerator is to generate five watts of net cooling at a temperature of 65 K. An operation without maintenance for a period of five years is required. A novel approach was selected for meeting the life requirement, taking into account an electromagnetic suspension of the moving parts. The fabrication of the hardware has now been completed and the performance of the refrigerator has been measured. The present paper provides a short review of the Stirling cycle, a description of the refrigerator design, and a summary of the test results. The new refrigerator configuration contains four major features, including a purely rectilinear drive, magnetic bearings, clearance seals, and all metal/ceramic working space surfaces. The displacer and the piston are supported and guided by magnetic bearings. The magnetic bearing consists of a set of electromagnetic actuators and radial position transducers.
Document ID
19850044360
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Daniels, A. (Philips Labs., Inc. Briarcliff Manor, NY, United States)
Stolfi, F. (Philips Laboratories Briarcliff Manor, NY, United States)
Sherman, A. (Philips Labs., Inc. Briarcliff Manor, NY, United States)
Gasser, M. (NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, MD, United States)