Performance analysis of an active magnetic refrigeration system with external loss mechanisms.

In this study, a one dimensional, time dependent model is used to study the performance of a magnetic refrigeration system. The objective is to quantify system losses and identify the operating conditions that maximize the performance. Parameters related to configuration such as external heat leaks and demagnetization effects are included. A simple resistance network model is used to simulate external losses. Through experiments, loss coefficient factors are estimated to determine conductance linking the cold side of the system to the environment and to the hot side. It is found experimental results on AMRs may underestimate intrinsic regenerator performance if losses are not considered. A detailed numerical study is performed to investigate the impacts of operating temperature on the performance of the system. Results indicate that the system efficiency is maximized when the average temperature of the matrix is slightly higher than the Curie point of the refrigerant.