Abstract
There are many applications where theromelectric (E)
coolers can be used effectively as power generators. In fact,
where temperatures are less than 500K, TE cooling modules
are the best choice for power generation, whether it be from a
cost or performance standpoint. The literature available on
this subject is scarce and very limited in scope. This paper
describes the configuration, limitations and performance of
TE coolers to be used as power generators. Also presented
are performance curves generated using a new finite element
thermoelectric model [ 11. This enables the user to design the
optimum TE module and select the nearest TE module
(normally used for cooling) for this power generation
application. A simple process is presented which provides
detailed power generation specification (temperatures, watts
in, current and voltage out) using the TE module's cooling
specifications ATmax, Imax, Vmax, and Qmax)