A magnetocaloric cooling device that employs triangular-microchannel active regenerators

Magnetocaloric materials are energy efficient and have zero global-warming potential.

We will build a high-efficiency magnetocaloric cooling device with aligned, triangular-microchannel, active magnetic regenerators (AMRs).

The relatively low practical efficiencies of state-of-the-art MCDs result from multi-scale energy transfer barriers, which involve large irreversibilities throughout different boundaries regarding magnetic materials, AMR geometries, hydraulic system, and magnetic circuits.

This work will characterize and optimize the cross-sectorial parameters covering MCM properties, microchannel structures, AMR housing dimensions, control logic, as well as integration and economic aspects of the whole device.

The experimental tests, multi-physics and thermal-economic models will be closely integrated such that the data from initial experiments with benchmark MCMs are used as the basis for the model development.

The models will then be applied for optimal design of AMR microchannels, transition temperature arrangement and housing configurations for the high-efficiency MCD.

Abundant experimental tests will be performed to promote the control strategy synergizing the parallel microchannel AMRs. The project will be carried out in collaboration with German academia and industry.

The collaboration helps to ensure the potential of the project results, and that the findings of the project may be transferred to industry for further adaptation. The research outcomes of the project will present significant benefits to both academia and industry.

Moreover, by contributing to the design of more efficient magnetocaloric heat pump systems with the optimized AMR geometries and control strategies, and thus helping to attain socioeconomic and environmental targets in the context of the Danish 2050 targets and the EU 2030 targets focused on 32.5% improvement in energy efficiency.