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Influence of leg sizing and spacing on power generation and thermal stresses of thermoelectric devices

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  • Erturun, Ugur
  • Erermis, Kaan
  • Mossi, Karla

Abstract

The influence of leg dimensions and spacing on power-generation and thermo-mechanical performance of thermoelectric devices was investigated using numerical and statistical analyses tools. Bismuth-telluride based thermoelectric device models with rectangular-prism and cylindrical legs were simulated for a temperature range of 20–120°C and various leg heights between 1 and 5mm, widths/diameters between 1 and 2mm, and spacing between 0.5 and 1.5mm. Predicted power output, conversion efficiencies, and thermal stresses were validated with less than 8.9%, 1.2%, and 6.6% variations respectively. It is found that both leg width and height have a significant effect on power generation and thermal stresses: The relationship between power generation performance and thermal stress levels is inverse. Although leg spacing has effect on thermal stress and conversion efficiency, its effect on power output is negligible.

Suggested Citation

  • Erturun, Ugur & Erermis, Kaan & Mossi, Karla, 2015. "Influence of leg sizing and spacing on power generation and thermal stresses of thermoelectric devices," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 159(C), pages 19-27.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:appene:v:159:y:2015:i:c:p:19-27
    DOI: 10.1016/j.apenergy.2015.08.112
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