Thermodynamic cycle

Abstract

The cycle comprises isochoric heating of working fluid in a cylinder (1), during which a displacer (3) and a piston (2) move synchronously in same direction, whereby the pressure and temperature of working fluid located between them increase, without a change in volume, due to heat received from a regenerator (4). This is followed by isothermal expansion of working fluid, during which the displacer (3) remains stationary while the piston (2) continues moving in same direction, and the pressure of working fluid located between them decreases, whereas its volume increases, without a change in temperature. Subsequently, isobaric cooling of working fluid is carried out, during which the displacer (3) remains stationary and the piston (2) moves toward the displacer. Under constant-pressure conditions, the volume and temperature of working fluid located between them decrease as a result of heat transfer to the regenerator (4). Simultaneously, cooled working fluid flows through a valve (5) into accumulator receiver. Finally, fresh portion of working fluid is drawn from accumulator receiver, during which the piston (2) remains stationary while the displacer (3) moves in opposite direction. After completion of suction process, the cycle is repeated.