Similarity Scaling of Vuilleumier Heat Pumps

Abstract

Previous works on scaling methods for Stirling and regenerative machines, have yielded interesting results about the prediction of the performance of the machine. Information from existing Vuilleumier heat pump is utilized for a scaling correlation. Geometric and dynamic variables are selected for scaling investigation in terms of thermodynamic characteristics such as heat power input or heat power gain. This is accomplished with the aid of a specially developed computer program. In addition, energy dissipation due to pressure drop, losses across the heat exchangers walls and thermally ineffective regenerators are introduced and the performance of the Vuilleumier heat pump is reevaluated. A combination of scaling factors with two or more dynamic variables is derived for a deeper examination of scaling influences.