This book serves as an introduction to cryocooler technology and describes the principle
applications of cryocoolers across a broad range of fields. It covers the specific requirements
of these applications and describes how the advantages and disadvantages of different
cryocooler systems are taken into consideration. For example Stirling coolers tend to be used
only in space applications because of their high coefficient of performance low weight and
proven reliability whilst Gifford-McMahon coolers are used for ground applications such as in
cryopumps and MRI shield cooling applications. Joule-Thomson cryocoolers are used in missile
technology because of the fast cool down requirements. The cryocooler field is fast developing
and the number of applications are growing because of the increasing costs of the cryogens such
as Helium and Neon. The first chapter of the book introduces the different types of cryocoolers
their classification working principles andtheir design aspects and briefly mentions some of
the applications of these systems. This introductory chapter is followed by a number of
contributions from prominent international researchers each describing a specific field of
application the cooling requirements and the cryocooler systems employed. These areas of
application include gas liquefaction space technology medical science dilution refrigerators
missile systems and physics research including particle accelerators. Each chapter describes
the cooling requirements based on the end use the approximate cooling load calculations the
criteria for cryocooler selection the arrangement for cryocooler placement the connection of
the cooler to the object to be cooled and includes genuine case studies. Intended primarily
for researchers working on cryocoolers the book will also serve as an introduction to
cryocooler technology for students and a useful reference for those using cryocooler systems
in any area of application.
