Abstract
In this study, a spiral valve which is used with a cryogenic linear expander and composed of plural plate coil shapes was examined. Generally, a spiral valve is well known for having excellent efficiency and low noise characteristics. In order to determine the movement characteristics and to investigate the limit of valve displacement, the stress variations according to the changes of operating pressure, displacement and workable temperature are discussed. From this examination, it is considered that the results of this study will significantly facilitate the design and development of a spiral valve for the cryogenic linear expander.