(Peltier And Seebeck Effect)

Key features:

• A bench-top unit to demonstrate a thermoelectric device – designed for teaching
• Connects for both Peltier or Seebeck tests – giving a full set of experiments
• Schematic diagram and transparent guard to help students understand the device construction and allow simple demonstrations
• A switchable load, variable heat source and device power supply for multiple test conditions
• Simple and safe to use – needs no tools
• Clear, multiline digital displays of all readings – you do not need a computer to work it or collect data

Description:

• The TecQuipment Peltier and Seebeck Effect Apparatus
  shows how one of these devices work and tests its
  performance when connected in a choice of two modes:
  • Heat to electricity for power generation when used
    in Seebeck mode – often used for thermoelectric
    generation and given the acronym ‘TEG’ (Thermoelectric Generator).
  • As an electrically powered heat pump when used in
    Peltier mode. Often used in thermoelectric cooling and
    given the acronym ‘TEC’ (Thermoelectric Cooling).
• Students then learn to analyze its performance in both
  modes, analyzing several factors including coefficient of
  performance (COP) and energy balance.
• For the Seebeck tests, the equipment uses an external
  cold water source and variable power electric heater
  to create a temperature difference across the device.
  The device then converts this into an electrical potential
  difference (voltage). A switch allows tests with and without
  an electrical load. The load allows generated power to
  flow and be measured for a range of applied temperature
  gradients.
• For the Peltier tests it also uses the electric heater, but with
  a small water storage tank and water pump, creating a
  stable, fixed-flow water supply. A variable voltage supply
  controls the electrical power into the device. A calibrated
  vessel allows students to measure the fixed water flow
  accurately, for calculation of the heat pumped at the ‘cold’
  side of the device. This allows assessment of the device
  performance over a range of temperature gradients and
  electrical power inputs.
• A hand-operated valve allows the user to change the
  water source without the need to reconnect pipes.
  Students need no tools to do the experiments.
• Thermocouples measure temperatures near to the surface
  of the device and at the inlet and outlet of the water circuit.
• Clear, multiline digital displays show all temperatures
  and electrical measurements around the device, such as
  voltage, current and power.
• The equipment control panel includes a schematic
  diagram of the device. A transparent guard covers the
  device. These allow students to understand the device
  construction and view ‘frost’ formation in simple cooling
  demonstrations.

Learning Outcomes:

• Seebeck coefficient and the performance of a thermoelectric generator (TEG)
• Peltier heat pump tests and the performance of a thermoelectric cooler (TEC)
• Coefficient of performance (COP) and energy balance
• Comparisons of manufacturers data, theoretical performance and results from experiments
• Observation of the Lenz and Thomson effects
• Simple cooling demonstrations (determined by local conditions)