A prototype thermoelectric co-generation unit

Abstract

Industrial plants are excellent sources for green waste heat energy harvesting. The design of a thermoelectric generator (TEG) unit using the Seebeck effect of converting heat energy into electricity is dependent on the applications that the TEG unit is `thermally connected' to in order to achieve the required thermal gradient across the thermoelectric modules. A correct thermal gradient across the thermoelectric modules is crucial for the optimal functionality of these modules. The research discussed in this paper focuses on the design and development of a prototype thermoelectric co-generation unit for waste heat energy harvesting into usable electrical energy in an industrial environment.