Design optimization and CFD analysis of the dynamic behavior of a standing wave thermoacoustic engine with various geometry parameters and boundary conditions

Abstract Thermoacoustic devices are converters of thermal energy into acoustic and vice versa. Although these machines contain simple components, the design is very challenging. In order to predict behavior optimize efficiency a standing-wave thermoacoustic engine designed drive thermally driven refrigerator, considering changes in geometrical parameters operating conditions, two analogies have been presented this paper. The first analogy based on CFD simulation carried out investigate influence stack parameters, working gas boundary conditions process. second performed by use an optimization algorithm simplified linear theory investigated study. Stack parallel plates normalized center positions 0.007 0.26, lengths 0.018 0.11, several gaps thicknesses gases used. results from give ability any with high picking appropriate parameters. Simulation show that decreasing thickness position gives significant efficiency. However, there optimum values for length gap between plates. material chosen construction should low conductivity higher ratios specific heats lower Prandtl numbers well suitable systems.