Advantages of high-frequency Pulse-tube technology and its applications in infrared sensing

R. Arts; D. Willems; J. Mullié; T. Benschop

doi:10.1117/12.2228682

17 May 2016 Advantages of high-frequency Pulse-tube technology and its applications in infrared sensing

R. Arts, D. Willems, J. Mullié, T. Benschop

Proceedings Volume 9821, Tri-Technology Device Refrigeration (TTDR); 982108 (2016) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2228682
Event: SPIE Defense + Security, 2016, Baltimore, MD, United States

Abstract

The low-frequency pulse-tube cryocooler has been a workhorse for large heat lift applications. However, the highfrequency pulse tube has to date not seen the widespread use in tactical infrared applications that Stirling cryocoolers have had, despite significant advantages in terms of exported vibrations and lifetime. Thales Cryogenics has produced large series of high-frequency pulse-tube cryocoolers for non-infrared applications since 2005. However, the use of Thales pulse-tube cryocoolers for infrared sensing has to date largely been limited to high-end space applications. In this paper, the performances of existing available off-the-shelf pulse-tube cryocoolers are examined versus typical tactical infrared requirements. A comparison is made on efficiency, power density, reliability, and cost. An outlook is given on future developments that could bring the pulse-tube into the mainstream for tactical infrared applications.

Citation Download Citation

R. Arts, D. Willems, J. Mullié, and T. Benschop "Advantages of high-frequency Pulse-tube technology and its applications in infrared sensing", Proc. SPIE 9821, Tri-Technology Device Refrigeration (TTDR), 982108 (17 May 2016); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2228682

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