Numerical simulation,parametric study and optimization of thermoelectric generators for self-cooling of devices
Conference
Kiflemariam, R, Lin, CX, Moosavi, R. (2014). Numerical simulation,parametric study and optimization of thermoelectric generators for self-cooling of devices
. 10.2514/6.2014-3123
Kiflemariam, R, Lin, CX, Moosavi, R. (2014). Numerical simulation,parametric study and optimization of thermoelectric generators for self-cooling of devices
. 10.2514/6.2014-3123
Thermoelectric generation is a promising technology which converts waste heat into electricity in an efficient and clean way. Thermoelectric application could utilize the heat from a device to power a thermoelectric generator (TEG) which in turn produces power that could run a cooling system. Such systems would be critical in transportation, remote area or other applications where system reliability is of a paramount importance. Thus, in this paper a detailed parametrical analysis and optimization of the geometrical and system parameters are made so as to provide guidelines for the design of self-cooling devices. A simple and accurate 2D numerical model is developed which facilitates a quick analysis of design variables. Numerical data is within a good agreement (within 6%) with existing experimental data. The effect of extender height (Hext), fin base height (Hfbase), number of fins (Nfin) ranging from 10 mm to 50 mm, 2 mm to 12 mm, 24 to 64 respectively has been studied. In addition, the feasibility of using double and triple cascaded TEG system is investigated. An optimization algorithm to optimize system paramaters is implemented.
