Cryocooler With Cold Compressor for Deep Space Applications

The innovation is a high-frequency single-stage pulse tube cryocooler (PTC) that operates at a heat rejection temperature of 150 K. It employs a flexure-bearing cold compressor operating at that same heat rejection temperature. High frequency, low temperature pulse-tube cryocoolers are a promising technology for future NASA missions. Such missions will require cryocoolers providing cooling capacities in excess of 0.3 W at 35 K with heat rejection capability to temperature sinks as low as 150 K at input powers up to 20 W. Presently there are no cooling systems operating at this heat rejection temperature.

NASA applications include missions to remote locations and orbits where there is a low level of solar input. Low intensity sunlight affords the benefit of a lower rejection temperature and improved cryocooler performance, for the same cold end temperature, and permits a decrease in system size and power draw. Only a third the power draw is predicted for the 35-K cold end case. Serendipitously, this agrees well with the drop in power generation due to dim solar light on remote missions. Taken together, the effects favor employing smaller cryocooler systems specifically designed for reduced rejection temperatures and system envelopes.

The design and construction process is targeted to produce a space-born cryocooler that will have a host of qualities in-demand for space missions. However, its small system size, efficient performance, long-life reliability, low input power and low vibration all make this cryocooler a high-value product that meets the demand of businesses aiming to deliver truly high-quality products for systems that require low failure rates. The proposed cooler is operable over a wide range of loads and temperatures. Several government agencies outside NASA (MDA, Air Force) and various commercial entities have interest in integrating small and efficient high-frequency cryocoolers into their equipment. For the proposed technology there are many potential business and civilian applications that require compact, reliable and efficient cryogenic cooling, such as: Cryopumps for semiconductor manufacturing, Superconducting magnets for MRI systems, SQUID magnetometers for heart and brain studies, HTS filters fo

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 5) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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