Experimental Study on the Power Generation of a Thermoelectric Module with Temperature Difference and Load Resistance

온도차 및 부하 저항에 따른 열전모듈의 발전 특성 분석

A thermoelectric module can be used for cooling or power generation. The basic requirements to achieve a significant thermoelectric performance are the same for both generators and coolers. Thermoelectric modules with $Bi_2Te_3$ materials are usually employed in the cooling applications below room temperature but it can also be used for the power generation in the similar temperature range. In the present study, the power generation with a $Bi_2Te_3$ thermoelectric module has been investigated. The temperature difference between the hot and cold sides of the module is maintained with electric heater and cold water from the circulating water bath. The result shows that the electric current generated increases with temperature difference and decreases with the load resistance. However, the voltage increases with both the temperature difference and load resistance. The electric power increases with temperature difference and it has the maximum value when the load resistance is about 4 ${\Omega}$ for a given device.