Development of a Thermoacoustically-Driven Thermoacoustic Refrigerator Powered by Residual Heat

This article presents the design and analysis of a Thermoacoustically-Driven Thermoacoustic Refrigerator (TADTAR) powered by waste heat. The primary objective is to develop an efficient refrigeration system that offers significant cooling capacity while minimizing energy consumption and emissions associated with conventional refrigeration methods. By leveraging the thermoacoustic effect, the TADTAR converts waste heat into acoustic energy, which is then used to transfer heat from a cold source to a hot source. Advanced modeling and simulation techniques using DeltaEC software were employed to analyse key parameters influencing the system's performance. The suitable TADTAR configuration achieved a maximum Coefficient of Performance (COP) of 4 and an overall efficiency of 73.09% of the Carnot efficiency, demonstrating its competitive potential compared to traditional refrigeration technologies. Material selection and design parameters were found to be crucial in enhancing system performance. The research suggests broader applications for the TADTAR system across various sectors, including industrial processes and transportation. Further experimental validation is advocated to confirm the practicality and reliability of the TADTAR system in real-world applications, supporting the transition to more sustainable refrigeration solutions.