Thermoelectric power generator design and selection from TE cooling module specifications

There are many applications where theromelectric (TE) 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 [1]. 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 Delta Tmax, Imax, Vmax, and Qmax).