Flexure bearing compressor in the one watt linear (OWL) envelope

I. Rühlich; M. Mai; Th. Wiedmann; C. Rosenhagen

doi:10.1117/12.722111

14 May 2007 Flexure bearing compressor in the one watt linear (OWL) envelope

I. Rühlich, M. Mai, Th. Wiedmann, C. Rosenhagen

Proceedings Volume 6542, Infrared Technology and Applications XXXIII; 65422I (2007) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.722111
Event: Defense and Security Symposium, 2007, Orlando, Florida, United States

Abstract

For high performance IR detectors the split linear cooler is a preferred solution. High reliability, low induced vibration and low audible noise are major benefits of such coolers. Today, most linear coolers are qualified for MTTF of 8,000h or above. It is a strong customer desire to further reduce the maintenance costs on system level with significantly higher cooler lifetime. Increased cooler MTTF figures are also needed for IR applications with high lifetime requirements like missile warning applications, border surveillance or homeland security applications. AIM developed a Moving Magnet Flexure Bearing compressor to meet a MTTF of minimum 20,000h. The compressor has a full flexure bearing support on both sides of the driving mechanism. In the assembly process of the compressor an automated alignment process is used to achieve the necessary accuracy. Thus, side-forces on the pistons are minimized during operation, which significantly reduces the wear-out. In order to reduce the outgassing potential most of the internal junctions are welded and the use of all non-metallic components is minimized. The outline dimensions comply with the SADA2 requirements in length and diameter. Further, when operated with a 1/2" SADA type coldfinger, the cooler meets all specified performance data for SADA2. The compressor can be combined with different Stirling type coldfingers and also with the AIM Pulse Tube coldfinger, which gives increased lifetime potential up to 50,000h MTTF. Technical details and performance data of the new compressor are shown.

Citation Download Citation

I. Rühlich, M. Mai, Th. Wiedmann, and C. Rosenhagen "Flexure bearing compressor in the one watt linear (OWL) envelope", Proc. SPIE 6542, Infrared Technology and Applications XXXIII, 65422I (14 May 2007); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.722111

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