Introduction

The thermoelectric generator stove helps solve two important problems: wasting energy and
rising electricity costs in homes. When we cook, a lot of heat is produced, but much of it goes
unused, which is not efficient. This special stove includes a thermoelectric generator (TEG) that
captures the heat from cooking and turns it into usable electrical energy. By creating a
temperature difference between the hot cooking surface and a cooler area, the TEG converts
waste heat into power, which can be used to run small devices or lights. This solution not only
reduces energy waste but also allows families to generate their own electricity while cooking. It
promotes sustainable energy use, lowers electricity bills, and helps reduce dependence on
traditional power sources, making everyday cooking more efficient and eco-friendly.

Problem Statement

In many homes, a significant amount of energy is wasted as heat, which is released into the
environment without being used effectively. This waste heat presents an opportunity to create a
device that converts it into usable energy, benefiting both households and the environment.

Rising electricity costs can also strain household budgets, making it important to provide
alternative power sources. This project aims to develop a portable device that harnesses waste
heat to reduce dependence on the power grid. To ensure the device works well across different
heat sources, it’s crucial to maximize its efficiency while considering factors like size, weight,
mounting options, and control systems.

Objectives

The main goals of this project are:

1. Develop a Portable Power Source: Create a device that uses heat energy to generate
electricity for household use.
2. Backup Power Supply: Design the unit to provide backup electricity when needed.
3. Evaluate TEG Effectiveness: Test how well Thermoelectric Generators (TEGs) work
with different heat sources and cooling systems.
4. Identify Waste Heat Sources: Investigate industrial settings to find and measure waste
heat that can be captured by TEGs.
5. Determine Design Requirements: Identify the costs, designs, and engineering needs for
TEGs in specific heat recovery processes.
6. Analyze Operating Environment: Study the conditions TEGs will face in these
processes to predict how well they will perform.
Thermoelectric Modules (TEGs) with TEC1-12706

A thermoelectric module, also known as a thermoelectric generator (TEG), is designed to

convert heat energy into electrical energy using the thermoelectric effect. One common example
of this type of device is the TEC1-12706, which consists of different thermoelectric materials
and semiconductors that can conduct electricity.

How It Works:

 The TEC1-12706 operates based on the Seebeck effect, which creates an electrical potential
difference when there is a temperature difference between the hot and cold sides of the module.
 Electrons move from the hot side (where they have more energy) to the cold side, generating an
electric current.

Fig 1: Seebeck Effect

Components:

 TEGs like the TEC1-12706 are made up of P-type and N-type semiconductors. P-type materials
have extra positive charge carriers (holes), while N-type materials have extra negative charge
carriers (electrons). This combination allows for the creation of a voltage difference.
Efficiency:

 The efficiency of a TEG is measured by its figure of merit (ZT value)—a higher ZT indicates
better performance.

Applications:

 The TEC1-12706 is used for recovering waste heat, generating power in remote locations, and in
heating/cooling systems. It is reliable, quiet, and compact, making it useful for a variety of
applications.

Basic Details of TEC1-12706

 Type: Thermoelectric cooler (Peltier module)

 Dimensions: Approximately 40mm x 40mm x 3.5mm
 Material: Primarily made of bismuth telluride (Bi2Te3), which is an efficient thermoelectric
material.

Using TEC1-12706 as a Thermoelectric Generator

1. Setup:

 Place the TEC1-12706 so that one side is heated (the hot side) and the other side is kept cool (the
cold side).

2. Heat Source:

 Attach a heat source (like a hot plate, flame, or hot water) to the hot side. This will create a
temperature difference.

3. Cooling:

 Use a heat sink or fan on the cold side to dissipate heat, ensuring a significant temperature
gradient.

4. Electrical Connections:

 Connect wires to the positive and negative terminals of the TEC module to harness the generated
electricity.
 5. Load Connection:

 Attach a small electrical load (like an LED or battery) to the output terminals to use the electricity
generated.

Output Power

 Voltage Output: Typically, the TEC1-12706 can produce about 5-15 volts depending on the
temperature difference.
 Current Output: The current can reach up to 6 amps under optimal conditions.
 Power Output: The maximum power output can be around 72 watts, but this is highly dependent
on the temperature difference maintained across the module.

Thermoelectric Generator (TEG) Wooden Stove Project

Objective

To design and construct a mini wooden stove equipped with a thermoelectric generator (TEG) to
convert waste heat into electrical energy, demonstrating the principles of thermoelectric
generation.

Apparatus Required

1. Mini Wooden Stove: Constructed from wood.

2. Thermoelectric Module: TEC1-12706 or similar.
3. Heat Sink: To enhance cooling on the cold side.
4. Fan (optional): To improve air circulation around the heat sink.
5. Thermal Paste: For better thermal contact.
6. Multimeter: To measure voltage and current.
7. Wires: For electrical connections.
8. LED or small load: To test the output.
9. Temperature Sensor: To monitor temperatures.
10. Insulation Material: To minimize heat loss.

Procedure

1. Construct the Wooden Stove:

 Build a small wooden stove frame that can hold a pot or pan on top.
 There is a designated area beneath the stove for the TEG module.

2. Install the TEG Module:

 Attach the TEG module to the bottom of the stove using thermal paste to improve heat transfer.
 Ensure the hot side of the TEG is in contact with the stove, while the cold side is exposed to the
ambient air or attached to a heat sink.

3. Set Up the Cooling System:

 Attach a heat sink to the cold side of the TEG to help dissipate heat.
 Optionally, place a fan near the heat sink to enhance cooling.

4. Connect the Circuit:

 Wire the TEG module to a multimeter and an LED or small load. Ensure proper polarity is
observed.

5. Test the Setup:

 Place a pot of water or another heat source on the stove.

 Monitor the temperatures of the hot and cold sides of the TEG using the temperature sensor.
 Record the voltage and current output from the multimeter.

Fig 2: Block diagram of converting waste heat recovery to electricity.

 Fig 3: Stove Powered Thermoelectric Generator

In a stove-powered thermoelectric generator, the heat is released from the external surface of the
stove while the stove is burned using wood. The waste heat from the stove's exterior surface is
observed using the hot side of the thermoelectric generator, and the cold side of the TEG is
cooled using the water at 25oC. More power is produced as the temperature increases on the
stove's external surface.The TEG's maximum power is 5.5 V and 70 mA using three
thermoelectric generators. The produced voltage from the thermoelectric generator is boosted to
12v using a DC-DC converter to light up the LED.

The LED glows up for one hour at 65 oC on the hot side without any fluctuation in the LED. As
the temperature on the cold side increases, the LED's glow decreases. Thus the temperature
difference plays a significant role in the thermoelectric generator. This mode of power generation
is more applicable in cold regions.
TYPES OF COOLING TECHNIQUES:

Cooling techniques for thermoelectric generators (TEGs) are essential to maintaining an

effective temperature differential, which is crucial for maximizing their efficiency. Here are
some common types of cooling techniques:

1. Heat Sinks:

 Description: Metal structures (often aluminum or copper) with fins that increase surface
area.
 Function: Dissipate heat from the cold side of the TEG into the surrounding air,
enhancing cooling through conduction and convection.

2. Fans:

 Description: Mechanical fans can be added to blow air over the heat sink.
 Function: Increase airflow, improving convective heat transfer and reducing the
temperature of the cold side.

3. Liquid Cooling:

 Description: Circulates a coolant (like water or antifreeze) through a heat exchanger

attached to the cold side.
 Function: Transfers heat away from the TEG more effectively than air cooling,
providing a larger heat sink effect.

4. Peltier Coolers:

 Description: Another thermoelectric module used specifically for cooling.

 Function: Acts as a mini-refrigerator on the cold side, removing heat and providing
additional cooling capacity.

5. Phase Change Materials (PCMs):

 Description: Materials that absorb or release heat when they change states (e.g., from
solid to liquid).
 Function: Can store excess heat and help maintain a consistent temperature on the cold
side.
 6. Radiative Cooling:

 Description: Utilizes materials with high emissivity that can radiate heat away into the
atmosphere.
 Function: Helps cool the TEG by allowing heat to escape through thermal radiation,
especially effective at night

7. Thermal Insulation:

 Description: Materials that minimize heat transfer to the environment.

 Function: Reduces heat loss from the hot side, allowing for a greater temperature
differential with the cold side.

8. Thermal Diffusion:

 Description: Materials that can effectively spread out heat.

 Function: Helps distribute heat more evenly across the module, preventing hotspots and
improving overall efficiency.

Results

 Measure the output voltage and current while the stove is operating.
 Calculate the power output using the formula: Power (P)=Voltage (V)×Current (I)
 Record the temperature differential between the hot and cold sides of the TEG.

Precautions

1. Safety First: Use heat-resistant gloves when handling hot materials.

2. Stable Setup: Ensure the stove is stable to prevent spills or accidents.
3. Thermal Contact: Apply thermal paste carefully to avoid air gaps between the TEG and
surfaces.
4. Electrical Safety: Be cautious while handling electrical components.

Sources of Error

1. Inadequate Insulation: Heat loss could lead to lower efficiency and inaccurate
measurements.
2. Poor Thermal Contact: Air gaps or insufficient thermal paste can reduce output.
3. Ambient Temperature Variations: Changes in room temperature can affect results.
4. Load Variation: Different loads can affect the voltage and current measurements.
THERMOELECTRIC STOVE

Prepared by :
M.Udayakumar