ABOUT THERMOELECTRICITY
Thermoelectricity allows the direct and reciprocal conversion between thermal and electrical energy, thanks to the use of suitable materials.
This phenomenon is currently utilized to produce cooling (via the Peltier effect) or generate electricity (through thermoelectric generators using the Seebeck effect).
Energy converters based on thermoelectric technology offer numerous advantages:
- Unlimited lifespan with no special maintenance
- Silent operation
- High durability
- Clean energy
Peltier-based refrigeration is used in portable refrigerators, air conditioning systems, and
cooling of electronic components.
Thermoelectric generators have been successfully developed since 1962 to power space probes
over long durations (e.g. Voyager 1&2, Galileo, Cassini...)
In today’s ecological context, electricity production through thermoelectric processes represents a promising source of clean energy.
SEEBECK EFFECT
The Seebeck effect is the buildup of an electric potential across a temperature gradient.
This phenomenon is based on the thermoelectric properties of certain materials: semiconductors.
The conversion of heat flow into electric current occurs due to the diffusion of electrons from the hot side to the cold side.
Electric power generated by Seebeck module as a function of the temperature gradient at its terminals
PELTIER EFFECT
The Peltier effect is a thermoelectric phenomenon that enables cooling when semiconductors are subjected to a direct electric voltage .
It is the reverse of the Seebeck effect.
A Peltier module consists of an array of semiconductor elements electrically connected in
series.
When an electric current flows through the module, it generates both cooling and heating:
one side absorbs heat (cold side), while the other side dissipates it (hot side).
The video below illustrates the Peltier effect:
An operator injects a DC voltage in a Peltier module. The temperature drops and becomes
negative!
THERMOELECTRICS MODULES
HotBlock OnBoard
has developed unique expertise in the manufacturing of Seebeck and Peltier thermoelectric devices, providing products tailored to your needs.
As the result of several years of research and development, we utilize different families of materials, allowing us to offer a wide range of operating temperatures.
We design and assemble thermoelectric modules incorporating these materials to meet the most demanding use cases.
Our expertise covers every step of the thermoelectric module production process.
OUR SIMULATIONS
To design your modules and simulate their thermoelectric and thermomechanical behavior in your applications, HotBlock OnBoard has developed its own digital simulation tool.
Temperature field
Deformation field
Stress field
OUR PRODUCTS
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High Power Thermoelectric Generators
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Thermoelectric generators for autonomous applications
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Peltier solid state cooling devices
