Cryogenic Process Engineering

Sponsoring University:

Northern Illinois University

Course:

Cryogenic Process Engineering

Instructors:

Peter Knudsen, Lab for Physical Sciences, University of Maryland; Nusair Hasan and Jonathan Howard, Michigan State University/FRIB

Purpose and Audience
Helium cryogenic refrigeration systems are used primarily to support modern particle accelerator superconducting technologies, space simulation chambers and for small to medium hydrogen liquefiers. These systems use highly energy intensive thermodynamic processes, and their reliability directly affects the facility operation. They have often been misrepresented as off-the-shelf, technically mature systems, when in fact they are highly specialized, one-of-a-kind systems, often adapting equipment and processes from other industries due to a lack of development. The purpose of this course is to introduce graduate students and professional physicists and engineers who are either involved or interested in these accelerator systems to key cryogenic system technical fundamentals.

Prerequisites
Undergraduate-level courses in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and heat transfer.
e.g., G.J. Van Wylen, R.E. Sonntag, Fundamentals of Classical Thermodynamics
F.M. White, Heat and Mass Transfer

Upon completion of this course, students would be expected to:

1. Identify and understand fundamental fluid-material properties, and thermo-hydraulic aspects important to the design of cryogenic systems.
2. Understand key elements and demonstrate working knowledge in fundamental cryogenic refrigeration cycles, with an ability to apply exergy analysis to a cryogenic refrigeration system.
3. Understand and demonstrate a working knowledge of the characteristics and behavior of key components used in cryogenic systems.
4. Apply the Carnot step analysis to a simple liquefier.
5. Demonstrate a working knowledge of primary design trade-offs and aspects that lead to an overall optimum efficiency, performance and reliability; and have the ability to model a simple cryogenic refrigeration system and investigate design trade-offs.
6. Understand key aspects in the design of cryostats for superconducting magnets.
7. Understand key elements for the vacuum system required for the insulation of cryogenic systems.

The course will consist of a series of lectures, combined with homework (to reinforce concepts presented), and a modeling/analysis project. There will be quizzes on material presented.  Regular evening help sessions will be scheduled to assist students.

Course Content
The following topics are planned to be covered:

• Thermodynamics for cryogenic systems.
• Pertinent aspects of single component fluids and their properties.
• Heat transfer pertinent to cryogenic systems.
• Exergy analysis and cryogenic process cycle thermodynamic fundamentals.
• Cryogenic cycles.
• Key system components.
• Basic modeling and Carnot Step analysis: liquefiers and refrigerators.
• Aspects of real cryogenic system modeling.
• Floating pressure process.
• Design aspects of cryostats for superconducting magnets.
• Vacuum systems for (insulation of) cryogenic systems.
  
  

Analysis and modeling project(s) will focus on practical implementation of material presented in lectures.

Reading Requirements
The material for the course will be provided by lecturers.
Supplemental text (to be provided by the USPAS) “Cryogenic Systems” (1985) by R.F. Barron.

Credit Requirements:
Students will be evaluated on performance in project (30%), quizzes (30%), and homework (40%). Homework is intended to emphasize material in lectures and to help prepare for quizzes. Project results will be individually presented on the last day.

USPAS Computer Requirements
There will be no Computer Lab, and all participants are required to bring their own laptop computer to access online course notes, electronic resources and perform analysis for assignments. Windows or Mac systems that are Wi-Fi capable and have a standard web browser and mouse are all acceptable. Several course assignments will use Microsoft Excel along with CoolProp thermo-physical property evaluation routine. You should have privileges for software installations.
If you are unable to bring a computer, please contact uspas@fnal.gov ASAP to request a laptop loan. Very limited IT support and spare loaner laptops will be available during the session.

Indiana University course number: Physics 671, Advanced Topics in Accelerator Physics
MIT course number: 8.790, Accelerator Physics