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Refrigeration
Creare is a leader in the development of innovative refrigeration devices for applications where new technology is required to meet challenging performance requirements. We build and demonstrate prototype systems using Creare’s extensive laboratory and shop facilities, and our deep understanding of thermodynamics, heat transfer and two-phase flow enables us to develop new analysis methods and design models. Our broad experience in compact heat exchanger design and fabrication also allows us to assemble and demonstrate compact, lightweight refrigerant systems. Creare engineers can devise a cycle design and identify a working fluid that optimizes performance for specific applications. We focus on the key processes that limit performance, then tailor the thermodynamic processes and components to meet our clients’ requirements. Much of our work focuses on applications where compact size and high efficiency are critical, such as man-portable and vehicular systems. We develop refrigeration technology that makes optimum use of the available power sources and heat rejection environment. |
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| We have developed systems using a wide range of refrigerants, including R134a, isobutane, water, CO2, ammonia, R141b, and R123. The thermodynamic cycles in the systems encompass advanced vapor compression cycles, open membrane absorption cooling cycles, ejector refrigeration cycles, and hybrid cycles. For the U.S. Army and Marine Corps, Creare has developed miniature refrigeration systems that control the temperature and humidity inside chem/bio protective garments. The technology includes an innovative, heat-driven refrigeration cycle that is optimized for man-portability and novel heat rejection techniques that maximize cycle efficiency and minimize the size of heat rejection components. We are developing a hybrid two-phase cooling system for aircraft electronics and weapons systems that enables reliable cooling of multiple, high-power components that need to operate at temperatures lower than ambient. We are developing a system dynamics code that analyzes the transient behavior of vapor cycle and two-phase thermal management systems. For NASA, we have developed an innovative heat pump/radiator for space suit cooling that uses a regenerable LiCl refrigeration process integrated in a compact radiator. We have produced compact, ultra-high efficiency water chillers to cool drinking water for soldiers and marines serving in hot environments. |
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