Network Model Approach for Investigation of Regenerator on Characteristic Impedance in Thermoacoustic Engine

Characteristic impedances of regenerator in thermo acoustic engine are analyzed by network model. The effects of system frequency, working gas and temperature on characteristic impedance of regenerator are studied. If the size of regenerator fixed, the change law of characteristic impedances with frequency is complicated. If the ratio of spacing between two plates to thermal penetration depth is fixed, the absolute value of characteristic impedance increases with frequency increases. The absolute value of characteristic impedance when using Nitrogen as working gas is always higher than using Helium, and the absolute value of characteristic impedance decreases with temperature increases.