The problems of reliable operations of thermoelectric modules for multielement generators and coolers have been considered. The generalizations lof the thermoelrctric devices reliability theory have been presented: new physical and mathematical models, rational system of thermoelectric modules reliability parameters. The data of the reliability of existing thermoelectric modules have been analyzed and the ways the reliability increase have been determined. The methods of accelerated reliability test have been considered.
The general physical laws for reaching the maximum efficiency of a generator using vehicular exhaust heat have been studied. Based on the physical models of a generator with lumped and distributed parameters, the optimal gas temperature at the outlet of the thermoelectric generator (TEG) and the optimal distribution of gas temperature in the heat exchanger have been found. The basic generator parameters, namely the voltage, power, and efficiency, have been calculated in the steady-state and dynamic modes. The possibility of efficiency improvement by a factor of 1.5 through use of an exponential as compared with an isothermal distribution of heat exchanger temperature has been revealed. Calculations are confirmed by results from testing a prototype vehicular thermoelectric generator.
Analysis of reliability determination methods used in thermoelectricity is carried out. These methods are based on the classical probability theory and have restricted possibilities for a description of reliability of complicated system and dynamic processes. In the present work more effective means of the random processes theory are used for creation of reliability determination methods. From the random processes theory point of view reliability parameters of thermoelectric elements and multi-element systems are considered. Possibilities of the random processes theory for determination and prognosis of thermoelectric module reliability have been considered.
IntroductionModem theory of reliability (TR) represents a set of mathematical methods directed to theoretical support for problems solution of industrial devices reliability.
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