Characterization of Thermoelectric Generator (TEG) transducer array configurations for harnessing optimum electrical power from an automobile engine system

• Main Authors: Go, Raynard A., Mudlong, Gerald Marion M., Navoa, Christopher P.
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Animo Repository 2009
• Subjects: Thermoelectric generators; Automobiles, Electric; Automobiles, Electric > Power supply; Automobiles, Electric > Design and construction; Automobiles, Electric > Batteries; Energy conservation; Power resources > Management; Power resources > Cost control; Power electronics; Engineering
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/etd_bachelors/9305
• Institution: De La Salle University

The thermoelectric Generator (TEG) is a multi-couple semiconductor transducer device which follows the concept of the Seebeck Effect. These devices are usually constructed as plates. Electrical energy is generated through introduction of heat, wherein one side of the plate is exposed to a relatively lower temperature source and the other to a higher temperature source. The amount of energy generated depends on the temperature difference between the cold side and hot side of the said transducer. The study aims to characterize TEG modules which include various electrical configurations, and mechanical attachments to the automobile engine exhaust system for the generation of optimal power. A TEG-Based Heat-to-Power Conversion System was developed to aid and monitor the said experimentations. The TEG array is configured to three (3) different electrical connections namely, series, parallel, and series-parallel. Prior to the actual mobile testing, simulations were performed through an electric heater. A mechanical attachment for the simulation was constructed, in order to meet similar heating conditions that are incidental to an automobile's exhaust system. Extensive procedures were performed to determine the location where to implement the TEG array configurations to the actual automobile engine exhaust system. The temperature at different 'hotspots' were profiled to monitor and determine the heat it generates at idle, and at various running speeds. The shape and size of the physical exhaust system components influenced the respective attachment design and feasibility of installation. Actual mobile testing was performed to determine the performance of the mechanical attachment, and the configured TEG array setup while running at various engine speeds.