Scientists at Ames Laboratory have begun working on a prototype cooling unit based on magnetic-refrigeration technology.
Researchers Karl Gschneidner Jr., Vitalij Pecharsky and David Jiles expect the prototype to demonstrate that magnetic refrigeration is a reliable source of cooling power, and is more energy-efficient and environmentally safe than the vapor-cycle systems now used in refrigerators and air conditioners. They will be working with Milwaukee-based Astronautics Corp. of America, the Lab's industrial partner in the project.
The prototype could be the first magnetic refrigerator capable of sustained operation and generating enough cooling power for commercial applications.
Magnetic refrigeration is based on the magnetocaloric effect -- the ability of some materials to heat when magnetized and cool when removed from the magnetic field. Using these materials as refrigerants would provide an environmentally friendly alternative to the volatile liquid chemicals, such as chlorofluorocarbons and hydrochlorofluorocarbons, used in traditional vapor-cycle cooling systems.
In April, Ames Laboratory and Astronautics signed an agreement to develop a rotary prototype magnetic-refrigeration unit. The U.S. Department of Energy will provide $750,000 in funding over the next three years toward the project, and Astronautics will provide a matching amount through in-kind contributions of personnel, research, services and facilities.
Ames Lab is concentrating on optimizing the refrigerant materials and developing a source for the magnetic field that is more convenient and cost-effective than superconducting magnets. Astronautics will design, build and test the prototype.
"When these pieces of the puzzle are properly put together, it will create a benchmark for all future developments of this new, emerging technology," Pecharsky said.
Last revision: 12/17/99 sd
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