The vortex tube as a classic thermodynamic refrigeration cycle

Boye K. Ahlborn, Jeffrey M. Gordon

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    141 Scopus citations

    Abstract

    Vortex tubes are commonly used as refrigeration devices. We show that the thermal and fluid dynamics of the vortex tube bear the signature of a classic cooling cycle, and quantify its performance as a thermodynamic machine. In the process, we develop simple analytic formulas for the temperature and pressure profiles within the tube. The principal model predictions compare favorably against experimental measurements.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)3645-3653
    Number of pages9
    JournalJournal of Applied Physics
    Volume88
    Issue number6
    DOIs
    StatePublished - 15 Sep 2000

    ASJC Scopus subject areas

    • General Physics and Astronomy

    Fingerprint

    Dive into the research topics of 'The vortex tube as a classic thermodynamic refrigeration cycle'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

    Cite this