Effect of Fin Usage on Power Harvesting in Thermoelectric Generators

Abstract

This work investigates the effect of fin usage on power generation in a Thermoelectric Generator (TEG). Nine types of fins with three different fin thicknesses (t=1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm) and three different numbers (n=3, 6, 9) were designed. Theoretical modeling of the heat transfer mechanism by natural convection was made for the study. To establish the conditions for one-dimensional steady-state heat transfer, the theoretical model was simplified based on the following assumptions: (1) negligible consideration of radiation, (2) assumption of quiescent air, and (3) assumption that the fins maintain an isothermal state. The open circuit voltage and electrical power harvested by TEG were calculated for each fin type by making an Energy analysis of the system. The investigation identified a specific fin configuration, characterized by 2 mm fin thickness and six fins (Type-5), as optimal for power generation in TEGs. Consequently, the use of fins has increased the power generated by TEG, and with the increase of the fin thickness, the power generated by TEG has also increased. In addition, the output capacity of the TEG is positively correlated with the temperatures of the hot surface (Th) and fin height (Lf) and inversely correlated with ambient temperature (Tamb), and fin thickness (tf). This underscores the importance of precision in selecting fin dimensions to achieve maximum heat dissipation and subsequent power output.