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What Is TEC Cooling?

TEC Cooling is a temperature control technology based on the thermoelectric effect. Driven by a direct current, a temperature difference is created between the two ends of the thermoelectric module. How does TEC Cooling work? What are the characteristics as well as the applications? Next, TrumonyTech will explore thermoelectric cooling further to provide you with more in-depth insights.

Table of Contents

What is Thermoelectric Cooling?

Thermoelectric cooler (TEC) is an electronic component based on semiconductor materials that is widely used in precision temperature control applications. It relies on the Peltier effect, whereby heat is transferred from one side to the other as an electric current passes through joints made of different semiconductor materials. The cold end absorbs heat and the hot end releases it. The advantage of this process is its reversibility: by reversing the current, the functions of the cold and hot ends are exchanged and can be used for both cooling and heating.

Thermoelectric coolers are important in many industrial and electronic applications. This is especially the case where temperature control precision is required and space is limited. It can provide efficient, low-noise cooling solutions.

semiconductor chip

Thermoelectric cooling vs. conventional mechanical refrigeration

Conventional refrigeration technology: The conventional compression refrigeration system consists mainly of a compressor, evaporator and condenser. It works by compressing a gaseous coolant and releasing heat in the condenser. This type of system is suitable for large-scale cooling. However, their structure is more complex and noisy. In addition, it is also more sensitive to the ambient temperature.

Thermoelectric cooling systems: Thermoelectric coolers have a core of semiconductor material and do not require a gaseous coolant. When the current passes through the thermoelectric module, the heat will move from the cold end to the hot end, the temperature of the cold end will decrease and the temperature of the hot end will increase. The thermoelectric cooler’s simple structure, small size, and lack of mechanical parts make it suitable for applications that require high precision and compact design. This simple and efficient design reduces the maintenance and conditioning required by conventional refrigeration systems.

The thermoelectric effect: understanding its basis

Thermoelectric coolers are based on several thermoelectric effects, including the Seebeck, Peltier and Thomson effects. Each effect describes the relationship between temperature and current.

Seebeck Effect

When a temperature difference exists between the joints of two different materials, a voltage is generated between them. This effect is widely used in thermocouples for accurate temperature measurement.

Formula

Vo=axy×(ThTc)

Where Vo is the output voltage, axy is the Seebeck coefficient. And Th and Tc are the high and low temperatures at the ends of the thermocouple, respectively.

Peltier Effect

The Peltier effect is the basis of thermoelectric cooling. When an electric current passes through the joints of two different materials, heat is absorbed from the cold end. This results in cooling and the hot end releases heat.

Formula

Qc=pxy×I

Where pxy is the Peltier coefficient, I is the current and Qc is the rate of cooling or heating.

Thomson Effect

The Thomson effect describes the change in heat when a current is passed through a conductor where a temperature difference exists. Although this effect plays a minor role in thermoelectric coolers, it is an important part of the thermoelectric effect.

Applications of Thermoelectric Coolers

Thermoelectric coolers are widely used in several industries, especially those that require high precision in temperature control. They provide reliable and efficient cooling solutions in several industries.

Electronics: Thermoelectric coolers are widely used in consumer electronics such as computers, cameras and other small devices. It effectively prevents equipment from overheating, ensures efficient operation and extends service life.

Automotive electronics: In automotive electronics, thermoelectric coolers are used for battery management, on-board electronics and other high-precision temperature control components. It maintains the stability of equipment under extreme environmental conditions and avoids failures caused by high temperatures.

Industrial applications: In industrial applications, thermoelectric coolers are used in precision instruments, laser equipment and other systems that require precise temperature control. They can effectively regulate the temperature of the equipment to ensure that the system works efficiently and stably.

Aerospace: In aerospace, thermoelectric coolers are used for temperature regulation of satellites and spacecraft. Through stable temperature control, thermoelectric modules help maintain the normal operation of the equipment inside the spacecraft and ensure that the system works stably for a long time.

Advantages and disadvantages of thermoelectric coolers

Advantages

Compact and efficient: the small size of thermoelectric coolers makes them suitable for use in space-constrained equipment.

No mechanical parts, low noise: no mechanical parts such as compressor, low noise during operation, ideal for environments with high noise requirements.

High reliability: With no friction parts, thermoelectric coolers have a low failure rate and are suitable for long-term operation.

Disadvantages

Lower efficiency: Especially in large temperature differences, thermoelectric coolers are less energy efficient and need to consume more power to achieve the desired temperature control effect.

High cost: due to the use of highly efficient semiconductor materials, thermoelectric coolers are more expensive than conventional refrigeration systems.

Heat dissipation requirements: The hot end of the thermoelectric module needs to dissipate heat efficiently to maintain a good working condition, otherwise it may lead to performance degradation.

Summary

As technology continues to advance, thermoelectric cooling technology is becoming increasingly important in the field of temperature control. Precise temperature control is essential for battery pack thermal management and precision electronics, and Trumonytechs understands the impact that efficient thermal management can have on battery pack performance and device reliability. As a result, thermoelectric coolers provide the ideal solution, especially in environments where precise temperature control, low noise and limited space are required.

Although thermoelectric coolers still face challenges in terms of energy efficiency and cost. However, with the continuous optimisation of semiconductor materials and thermoelectric technology, their performance will continue to improve. Combined with our expertise in cold plate design and thermal interface materials, thermoelectric coolers will play an even more important role in smart devices, high-end electronics and high-precision industrial equipment. If you need knowledge on thermal management, please contact us. We will provide you with professional and reliable thermal management advice.

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