Projects / Programmes
RAZVOJ MAGNETNEGA HLADILNIKA (Slovene)
| Code |
Science |
Field |
Subfield |
| 2.13.05 |
Engineering sciences and technologies |
Process engineering |
Cryogenics |
| Code |
Science |
Field |
| 2.11 |
Engineering and Technology |
Other engineering and technologies |
Researchers (21)
Organisations (2)
Significance for science
Research and results of the project have contributed to the understanding of the thermodynamic processes of magnetic refrigerators and indicated the possibility of its applications in different segments of the refrigeration markets. Significant progress has been made especially in the understanding of the operation of the AMR as a key component of the magnetic refrigerator. As the first in the world we proved that Ericsson thermodynamic process of the AMR is much more effective as so far widely used Brayton process. In addition, by an innovative technology with the usage of the laser welding technology we developed the manufacturing process for making a parallel-plate AMR, which generated the largest so far measured temperature span in the world (for the given magnetic field change generated by the permanent magnets). However, we have gained the knowledge to develop the elements of magnetic refrigerators that are energy competitive with the conventional cooling system.
Research results have certainly enriched the Slovenian and the world knowledge especially in the field of thermodynamics, hydrodynamics, heat transfer, materials technology, manufacturing technologies and mechatronics.
The result of the project includes also eight scientific papers that have been published (or are still in the reviewing phase) in the prestigious international scientific journals and one patent application.
Significance for the country
A necessary condition for the sustainable socio-economic and cultural development of Slovenia is knowledge. Energy (also cooling) and materials have always represented a key foundation for technological development and advancement. The efficient use of energy and new materials with improved properties supports the further development of various conventional technologies and products, while at the same time they are paving the way to new technologies, which have a significant impact on the quality of life. From the standpoint of Slovenia, it is very important to produce its own knowledge, which can help Slovenian industry to become a recognisable rival in the world market. The proposed research project is in line with the basic and applicative research work that is already in progress and results, knowledge and expertise of which will offer domestic manufacturers a much needed support in the field of new technologies and products.
The development of a magnetic refrigerator and the associated technologies is a recognizable knowledge – also in the eyes of the world – that represents an R&D and organizational challenge. The higher operational efficiency of magnetic refrigerators will allow Slovenia to manufacture a product with a higher added value, based on domestic knowledge.
A strong economy is the best promotion for any country, and the technology of magnetic refrigeration will importantly contribute to a better recognition of Slovenian science and its economy. At the same time it will open new opportunities for Slovenian economic and educational institutes.
Magnetic refrigeration represents a rare strategically development opportunity of Slovenia, using only domestic top-notch knowledge. As a nation of only two million people we cannot say that we have expertise of a vast number of top technologies that exist in the world today. This is why our national interest is utilization of domestic knowledge in a domestic economy. Industrial partner in the project have a great opportunity that with a further developments enter over 100 billion dollar refrigeration market (domestic and industrial refrigerators, air conditioners, heat pumps).
Most important scientific results
Annual report
2009,
2010,
2011,
final report,
complete report on dLib.si
Most important socioeconomically and culturally relevant results
Annual report
2009,
2010,
2011,
final report,
complete report on dLib.si
