Numerical simulation for thermoelectric generator with optimized design for compact SOFC co-generation system

Abstract

As a means of improving the generating efficiency of the compact SOFC system with a rated AC power of 700 W, we introduced the heat exchanger which is integrated with CoSb3, SiGe thermoelectric materials, namely TEG-HEX, instead of the air preheater in the SOFC system simulation model. We investigated the influences of changes of materials thermoelectric properties and the thermoelectric element size in the TEG-HEX. The results of simulation indicated that using low thermal conductivity materials and high aspect ratio, in other words, long and thin, elements can withdraw larger temperature difference and larger TEG output power under realistic heat transfer conditions. To enhance the SOFC's power generation efficiency, it is important to design the TEG-HEX using low thermal conductivity materials.

Optimal Sizing of Combined Stationary Solid Oxide Fuel Cell‐Based Polygeneration System and Electric Vehicle Charging Considering Multi‐Criteria Decisions

“…Moreover, mathematical modeling of the thermoelectric generator is carried on the ref. [24] using the thermal balance in the hot and cool sides of the generator. The element cross area , Seebeck coefficient α , thermal conductivity and resistivity influence the electricity generated from the generator.…”

“…A thermoelectric generator (TEG) (9)(10)(11)(12)(17)(18)(19) and heat exchanger (HEX) (18)(19)(20)(21) are also used as heat recovery devices providing additional electricity and hot water. A double-effect absorption chiller (24)(25)(26)(27)(28)(29)(30)(31)(32)(33)(34)(35)(36) is employed for the cooling system to generate cooling space and water for the building. The electrolyzer (44-45) consumes electricity from the prime mover in DC power to produce hydrogen sold to retailers (46-47).…”

“…In the processing of cooling for the houses, the solution is pumped to a high-pressure generator through heat exchangers (24)(25)(26). It recovers the medium lithium bromide solution to the first heat exchanger (27) and enters a low-pressure generator (LPG) (28).…”