Optimization of layered regenerator of a magnetic refrigeration device

Magnetic refrigeration, as an alternative to vapor-compression technology, has been the subject of many recent investigations. A technique to enhance the performance of magnetic refrigerators is using layers of different materials in the regenerator of such devices. In this study the choice of magnetocaloric materials in a multi-layered packed bed regenerator is investigated in order to optimize the performance. A numerical model has been developed to simulate the packed bed in this study. Optimized packed bed designs to get maximum temperature span or maximum efficiency are different. The results indicate that maximum temperature span can be achieved by choosing the materials with the highest magnetocaloric effect in the working temperature range, while maximum Carnot efficiency is achieved by choosing materials with Curie temperatures above the average layer temperature. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd and IIR. All rights reserved.