A thermoacoustic test rig for low-onset temperature gradients and the validation of numerical models

Abstract

The design and implementation of a low-onset temperature gradient standing wave thermoacoustic test rig is presented together with results which validate previous numerical models. A summary of on-going development of innovative fabrication methods and the novel use of composite materials for thermoacoustic stacks and regenerators is provided. An evaluation of the performance of these components is presented and further research and development work proposed. A novel design for selective laser sintered (SLS) aluminium thermoacoustic heat exchangers to deliver heat to from the thermoacoustic core is also presented together with numerical models and experimental validation from a purpose-built test rig.