The effect of finite hot and finite cold junction fins on the performance of a thermoelectric heat pump

Abstract

Analytical solutions are given for the steady-state temperature distribution, no-load temperature difference, heat-pumping capacity and coefficient of performance of a thermoelement used as a thermoelectric heat pump with finite hot and cold junction fins. The longitudinal surface of the thermoelement is assumed to be insulated. The surface heat-transfer coefficient over the hot and cold junction fins is arbitrary. A numerical example is worked in which performance curves are compared for cases of infinite and finite fin conductance at the junctions of a simple thermoelectric heat pump. A method of augmenting device performance by realistic fin design is shown; or, conversely, a method of economizing on fin size and the anticipated decrease in device performance is shown.