Mathematical investigation of regenerator efficiency and thermal penetration depth in pulse tube cryocoolers

Abstract By showcasing OPTRs' ability to produce reliable cryogenic cooling with low vibration, the study draws attention to their potential for use in superconducting, infrared, and aerospace applications. To accurately depict steep temperature gradients, the model is solved using conservation equations, thermodynamic relations, and a flux-limiter approach. Furthermore, hybrid mesh regenerators (150–200-400 and 250–300-400 mesh combinations) are studied for performance optimization; they demonstrate significant advances in efficacy (up to 0.990) and decreases in pressure losses. An extensive analytical and numerical assessment of mass and energy conservation in inheritance-type Orifice Pulse Tube Cry coolers (OPTRs) is presented in this study. The objective is to create a proven mathematical model based on a one-dimensional control volume that incorporates compressible, oscillatory helium gas flow through essential components, including the pulse tube and regenerator.