Eventos Anais de eventos
COBEM 2017
24th ABCM International Congress of Mechanical Engineering
Actuation and control of electric valves for a magnetic refrigerator
Submission Author:
Gislaine Hoffmann , SC
Co-Authors:
Sergio Luiz Dutra, Pedro Cardoso, Alan Nakashima, Jaime Lozano, Jader Riso Barbosa Jr., Gislaine Hoffmann
Presenter: Gislaine Hoffmann
doi://10.26678/ABCM.COBEM2017.COB17-1827
Abstract
Synchronization between the hydraulic and magnetic circuits in a magnetic refrigerator is fundamental to its operation and overall efficiency. Most of the prototypes reported in the literature apply face-to-face sealing (rotary valves) or some other mechanically actuated flow distribution systems to allow oscillatory fluid flow through the active magnetic regenerators. However, the use of such mechanisms in magnetic refrigerators has demonstrated limited versatility in controlling the synchronization between the hydraulic and magnetic circuits. Additionally, they are frequently the largest contributor to the energy consumption of the device, compromising its efficiency. Therefore, the aim of this work is to develop a control system for a new hydraulic circuit with a set of electric valves in place of the mechanically-actuated valves. This control system ensures the desired synchronization of the fluid blows with the magnetic field variations. The results indicate that the use of such valves and control system allows for better flexibility in the operation and synchronization of a magnetic refrigerator as well as lower energy consumption.
Keywords
magnetic refrigeration, synchronization, electric valve
