Evaluation of power generation from thermoelectric cooler at normal and low-temperature cooling conditions

Wei Hsin Chen, Chen Yeh Liao, Chien Chang Wang, Chen I. Hung

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

29 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Three different methods for predicting the Seebeck coefficient and power generation of a commercial available thermoelectric cooler (TEC) module are used and compared to the experimental data. Method 1 and 2 are developed based on mathematical models and Method 3 is established in terms of experimental measurements. Method 3 considers the effect of cooling condition, whereas Method 1 and 2 don't. Two different temperatures at the cold side of the TEC module are also considered to account for the influence of cooling condition on the performance of the TEC. The power generation of the TEC module with low-temperature cooling is at least 5% higher than that with normal cooling. Method 3 gives the best prediction in open circuit voltage and power generation. Basically, the three methods are able to evaluate the properties and performance of a TEC easily, thereby providing useful tools for designing and constructing a TE generation system.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)8-16
Number of pages9
JournalEnergy for Sustainable Development
Volume25
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2015 Apr 1

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Geography, Planning and Development
  • Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment
  • Management, Monitoring, Policy and Law

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