Optimal fan RPM for the maximum TEG net power according to ambient temperature in forced convection

Abstract

TEG (thermoelectric generator) is one of the power generators using renewable sources, but not used as widely as other power generators such as a solar power generator, a wind turbine generator, and more due to its low efficiency. For better efficiency, people have optimized a heatsink geometry, a fan/pump, and other cooling systems. In this paper for the maximum net power and more practical use, we optimize the fan rotation speed considering ambient temperature because, in air forced convection, the cooling capacity depends on the ambient temperature, which changes from day to night and by seasons. The simulation and analysis are carried out with the computation fluid dynamics (CFD) software 'STAR-CCM+' with a range of typical ambient temperature. The result shows that the fan has different optimal rotation speeds according to ambient temperature and a relationship between the ambient temperature and the fan rotation speed.