Design of a moving magnet-type free piston Stirling cryocooler for futuristic space application

Abstract The utilization of free piston Stirling cryocoolers is becoming more widespread in space technology, particularly for the purpose of cooling infrared sensors used in satellites and other space-related equipment. This study focused on the design and optimization of a miniature integral type free piston Stirling cryocooler using SAGE 12 software. The design features an electromagnetically driven resonating mechanism with a clearance seal setup to ensure optimum COP and minimal system vibration. The engineered integral type free piston Stirling cryocooler can produce a cooling effect of 1.58 W with a COP of 0.0424 at 80 K. A comprehensive evaluation of the designed cryocooler was conducted to evaluate the influence of different design characteristics and operational parameters. Subsequently, a moving magnet-type linear motor necessary for the cryocooler was designed using Ansys Maxwell software. In the final phase of the study, the original cryocooler design was modified by replacing the single mesh regenerator with a multi-mesh regenerator. The optimal combination of the multi-mesh regenerator to enhance the system performance was determined.