A High Temperature Experimental Characterization Procedure for Oxide-Based Thermoelectric Generator Modules under Transient Conditions

Characterization methods for thermoelectric generator (TEG) modules play an important role in studying their behavior and in enhancing the performance and simulation of TEG systems also. The purpose of this study is to analyze the behavior in transient and steady-state of the temperature applied at the hot side of TEG modules. The focus is on the time required to wait between measurements in order to reduce measurement errors which appear until the system reaches steady-state. By knowing this waiting time, the total characterization time can be reduced. The characterization process is of experimental nature, it includes modules of different leg lengths and it is performed on a test rig known as TEGeta, which can be used to assess the output characteristics of TEG modules at different load values and temperature conditions. The setup offers the possibility to control the hot side temperature up to 1000 °C with a load variation range value between [0.22 – 8.13] Ω. A total of ten thermocouples are placed in the setup with the purpose of measuring the temperature in specific points between the heater and the heat sink. Based on the readings, the temperature on the hot and cold side of the modules can be extrapolated. Additionally, the set of measurements can offer heat flux information on both hot and cold sides of the system. This study provides quantitative data on the minimum waiting time of the temperatures in the surrounding system to reach equilibrium. Laboratory test results will be shown during the transient and steady-state thermal conditions.