ICT2014 Abstracts

Characterization methods for thermoelectric generators (TEGs) modules play an important role in studying their behavior and in enhancing the design and simulation of TEG systems also. The purpose of the study is to analyze the response of TEG modules under transient and steady-state conditions. The focus is on the time required to wait between measurements in order to reduce the large measurement errors which appear until the system reaches steady-state. The procedures are supported by laboratory tests performed on a test rig known as TEGeta which can be used to assess the output characteristics of TEG modules for different load values. Additionally, the setup can give insight about electrical and thermal specifications of modules in case no datasheet is available.  The setup offers the possibility to control the hot side temperature up to 850 ⁰C with a load variation range value between [0.22 – 8.13]Ω. A total of ten thermocouples are placed in the setup with the purpose of measuring the temperature from the heater to the hot side of the module and from the heat sink to the cold side respectively. The study provides recommendations to the minimum time allocated between measurements required by the temperature in the reference blocks to reach equilibrium. Laboratory test results will be shown during the transient and steady-state thermal conditions and their influence on the measurement errors. In addition, the conclusion whether there can be a generalization of the time required to characterize the modules with minimal measurement errors can be drawn.