A linear reciprocating thermomagnetic motor powered by water heated using solar energy

Abstract

The most common use of solar energy is for household solar water heating mainly because the cost and the efficiency of these heaters are attractive notably in those countries with large solar radiation rate per year. In this context this paper presents the development stages followed by experimental results that demonstrate the viability of a thermomagnetic motor powered by water heated by solar energy. The motor main part is formed by one arrangement of permanent magnets and by two equally spaced magnetocaloric compound plates having a Curie temperature (Tc) around 50 degrees C and that remain stationary relatively to the moving magnets. As hot water (70 degrees C) crosses one plate its magnetic state change, releasing the magnets toward the other magnetocaloric plate. In order to make the permanent magnets movement continuous, hydraulic valves, a sensor and one board control are used to toggle the water flow through the plates. Water at room temperature is used as refrigerant fluid.