Magnetocaloric power

Abstract

The work treats the subject of power produced by cycling a ferromagnetic material thermally through a range of temperatures such that its magnetization changes appreciably and of utilizing the change of magnetization and its interaction with a magnetic field. Thermodynamically, an appropriate cycle to make this form of power practical is evaluated, physical circumstances to realize the cycle are discussed, and losses are estimated. In taking a broader view than previous work, it is found that potentially competitive heat engines based on magnetocaloric devices are possible, provided that the primary heat energy is first converted into mechanical form and that a regenerative cycle is used. (Author)