Cryo-refrigerators for CNS applications

Cryo-refrigeration plants for cold neutron sources belong to the field of auxiliary plants or utility facilities of the reactor. In general, they are classified as non-nuclear and serve to dissipate the heat generated in the liquid hydrogen or deuterium from moderating the neutrons of the cold neutron source. Cryo-refrigeration plants for the temperature range of 20 K supply either refrigeration at constant temperature by means of evaporating the cryogenic coolant (usually hydrogen) or, as usual with cold sources, in a specific temperature range by means of warming-up the cryogenic coolant (usually helium) in the moderator or heat exchanger (condensation or subcooling of the deuterium). The operator's requirements to a refrigeration plant are, first of all, that the plant adjusts itself - at low-maintenance or maintenance-free - to the various operation modes at best thermodynamic efficiencies and that it offers as much operating convenience and operating safety as possible. Additional requirements are short times for cool-down, capacity adjustment, stand-by operation in order to avoid poisoning of the cold source and further operational requirements. However, these requirements are limited by mechanics, thermodynamics and financial means. For this reason, for each application a technical solution must be found which is optimally adapted to the competing requirements and which is based on a standard product of the manufacturer, if possible. The operator's different requirements have to be taken in account with regard to the design of the plant and choice of the components; economic aspects in addition also have to be considered. Wherever possible, proven standard components should be used. (orig.)