What are alternatives to peltier tiles?

  • Thread starter DazedAura
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In summary, the conversation is about finding alternatives to industrial options for powering a small motor. The goal is to find something that is easily transportable and can convert thermal energy to electrical energy. Some suggestions include a battery, wall plug, solar panels, or a small sterling engine. However, there are more conditions and constraints to consider, such as the motor's output power and rpm, and the preferred size being similar to a peltier tile.
  • #1
DazedAura
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Are there any alternatives? That are not straight up industrial of course.
Please leave me your suggestions!
 
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  • #2
What are you trying to accomplish and what are the constraints?
 
  • #3
Dr. Courtney said:
What are you trying to accomplish and what are the constraints?
Something that could power a small motor.
 
  • #4
How about a battery?
 
  • #5
DazedAura said:
Something that could power a small motor.

Battery, wall plug, solar panels, ...

There seem to be more conditions/constraints. Motors are generally rated in terms of output power and rpm. Small can mean different things in different contexts.
 
  • #6
Dr. Courtney said:
Battery, wall plug, solar panels, ...

There seem to be more conditions/constraints. Motors are generally rated in terms of output power and rpm. Small can mean different things in different contexts.
I'd like the function to be the same. Thermal energy must be converted to electrical energy.

Preferably something that is around the same size as a peltier tile, something that could fit in my hand.
Also, it should be easily transportable.

Any options that meet these reqs?
 
  • #7
Not really, no. Maybe a small sterling engine.
 

What are alternatives to peltier tiles?

Peltier tiles are semiconductor devices that can create a temperature difference when an electrical current is passed through them. They are commonly used in thermoelectric coolers and generators. However, there are some alternatives to peltier tiles that can be used for similar purposes. Here are the 5 most frequently asked questions about these alternatives.

1. What are thermoelectric generators?

Thermoelectric generators are devices that can convert heat into electricity, similar to how peltier tiles can convert electricity into a temperature difference. Unlike peltier tiles, thermoelectric generators typically have more complex designs and are used for larger-scale power generation rather than cooling.

2. How do thermoelectric generators compare to peltier tiles in terms of efficiency?

Thermoelectric generators are generally less efficient than peltier tiles, with conversion efficiencies ranging from 5-8% compared to peltier tile efficiencies of up to 15%. However, thermoelectric generators can handle higher heat differentials, making them better suited for power generation applications.

3. Can thermoelectric generators be used for cooling?

While thermoelectric generators are primarily used for power generation, they can also be used for cooling. However, they are not as efficient as peltier tiles for cooling purposes and are typically only used in specialized applications where a large temperature difference is needed.

4. Are there any other alternatives to peltier tiles for cooling?

Yes, there are several other alternatives to peltier tiles for cooling purposes. Some of these include absorption refrigeration, vapor compression refrigeration, and thermoelectric cooling using the Seebeck effect instead of the Peltier effect.

5. What are the advantages of using alternatives to peltier tiles?

There are a few advantages to using alternatives to peltier tiles. Thermoelectric generators, for example, can be more cost-effective for power generation applications. Other alternatives, such as absorption refrigeration, can be more efficient for cooling and have a longer lifespan. It ultimately depends on the specific application and desired outcome.

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