Experimental Characterization of a Thermoelectric Generator System

This research paper presents a detailed investigation of the performance of a thermoelectric generator (TEG) system. The TEG system is composed of multiple thermoelectric legs connected in series, a heat source, and an electric load. The experimental setup is designed to simulate real-world operating conditions and allow for the measurement of the TEG’s power output as a function of the temperature difference between the hot and cold sides, and the load conditions. The performance evaluation of the TEG system is conducted using a commercial thermoelectric generator module (TEM) and several measurement instruments such as power analyzers, thermocouples, and electronic devices. The results of the study are used to plot the TEG’s operating curves, which show the power output as a function of the temperature difference and the TEM current including the identification of the maximum power point (MPP). The operating curves allow for the evaluation of the TEG’s behavior and thermal characteristics under different conditions. Additionally, this result provides valuable insights into the performance of TEGs and contribute to the advancement of this technology.