Modelling and simulation of a thermoelectric waste heat recovery system – TWRHS

Abstract

The thermoelectric effect allows the direct conversion of thermal energy into electrical energy without the need for moving parts and its applications are endless, with only the availability of a temperature gradient. Combustion vehicles generate energy losses of up to 62% and it is estimated that efficiency with thermoelectric generators can be increased by up to 8%. In this work we propose a system of waste heat from exhaust gases from the thermoelectric effect. A computational model was developed using the finite element method. Based on the simulations, a set of curves of electrical variables can be made as a function of temperature. There is a good correlation between the model and datasheet data. Based on the modeled system, it was possible to evaluate a generation system with the generation of up to 120W with 5.8% efficiency, representing an increase of up to 3% in overall efficiency.

Keywords

• termoelectricidad;
• calor residual;
• modelamiento;
• simulación;
• elementos finitos