Noise reduction method

Abstract

There is provided a method of reducing noise in a cryogenic cooling system associated with a mechanical refrigerator forming part of said cooling system. The method comprises: monitoring vibrations in the cooling system during operation of the mechanical refrigerator; and modulating an operating frequency of the mechanical refrigerator based on the monitored vibrations so as to reduce the amplitude of said vibrations. This allows noise within the cooling system to be reduced.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates to noise reduction in cryogenic cooling systems, and is intended to reduce the noise associated with mechanical refrigerators coupled to such cooling systems. Background technique [0002] Many experiments and processes have been performed at cryogenic temperatures, for example at temperatures below 77 Kelvin (K) or at temperatures around or below 4K. In the past, cryogenic fluids such as liquid nitrogen and liquid helium have been used to achieve these temperatures. These fluids are usually produced in dedicated liquefaction plants (characterized by powerful mechanical compressors and expansion stages) and then transported (in liquid form) to the experimental area where the cooling power (also called cooling capacity, of the fluid) is consumed in the experimental area. That is, the ability of the fluid to provide cooling). Thus, there is a separation between cold source "production" and "consumption", and the associated...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Microphony in the lab wiring generated by these vibrations can couple into the lab wiring to which sensitive samples are connected, causing electrical noise in the measurement circuit

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