Three-dimensional numerical simulation of the basic pulse tube refrigerator

A three-dimensional physical and numerical model of the basic pulse tube refrigerator (PTR) was developed. The compressible and oscillating fluid flow and heat transfer phenomenon in the pulse tube were numerically investigated using a self-developed code. Some cross-section average parameter variations such as velocity, temperature and pressure wave during one cycle were revealed. The variations of velocity and temperature distributions in the pulse tube were also analyzed in detail for further understanding of the working process and refrigeration mechanism of PTRs.