Project Title:

A High-Efficiency, Low-Vibration, Long-Life, Stirling Cryogenic Pre-Cooler

09.12-4000
NAS5-30860
A High-Efficiency, Low-Vibration, Long-Life,
	Stirling Cryogenic Pre-Cooler
Stirling Technology Company
	2952 George Washington Way
	Richland, WA 99352
		Peter Riggle
(509-375-4000)

Abstract:

	A technology demonstration model (TDM) model of a high-efficiency, long-life, low-vibration
CryoflexTM double-expansion cryogenic pre-cooler will be developed. This device would
be used as a standard flight pre-cooler for heat removal from lower-temperature cryocooler
stages. The key objectives for the pre-cooler are high efficiency, low vibration,
and a life of 10 to 15 years. The pre-cooler will remove heat from sources in the
20 K temperature range. High efficiency will be achieved through the minimization
of dead volume in a double-expansion Stirling device, careful selection of advanced
regenerator technology, optimized electric motor design, and flexural bearings for
high mechanical efficiency. Co-linearity of oscillating masses coupled with either
dual opposed pistons or an active balancer with adaptive control will result in trace
levels of vibration. Flexural bearings and gas clearance seals will provide 10 to
15 year life. The Phase I objective is completion of the TDM conceptual design. Phase
II objectives include design, fabrication, assembly, testing and evaluation of the
TDM.

Potential Commercial Application:

Potential Commercial Applications: Applications include cooling of medical sensors,
emerging superconductivity applications, and gas liquefaction for laboratory applications.