Thermodynamic simulation of a rotating Ericsson-cycle magnetic refrigerator without a regenerator

Abstract

A magnetic Ericsson cycle, which consists of two isothermal stages and two isofield stages, is generally thought to require regenerators. However, a new concept makes it possible to realize magnetic refrigerators capable of executing an Ericsson-cycle without using regenerators. The basic principle lies in directly linking the two isofield changes by transferring heat between the isofield stages through heat paths rather than through regenerators. A fundamental configuration is proposed for a rotating magnetic refrigerator that operates based on this concept. A simulation of the thermodynamic cycle in this simplified refrigerator model shows that the system is theoretically feasible.