Citation

Abstract

Experience with DSN ground-based cryogenic refrigerators has proved the reliability of the basic two-stage Gifford-McMahon helium refrigerator. A very long life cryogenic refrigeration system appears possible by combining this expansion system or a turbo expansion system with a hydride sorption compressor, in place of the usual motordriven piston compressor. To test the feasibility of this system, a commercial Gifford-McMahon refrigerator was tested using hydrogen gas as the working fluid. Although no attempt was made to optimize the system for hydrogen operation, the refrigerator developed 1.3 W at 30 K and 6.6 W at 60 K. The results of this test and of theoretical performances of the hydrid compressor are presented, coupled to these expansion systems.

Details

Volume
42-90
Published
August 15, 1987
Pages
21–26
File Size
457.6 KB