Theoretical investigation of a novel thermoelectric laundry dryer concept

Abstract

The environmental impact of conventional heat pump dryers lies, apart from its energy consumption, in the use of a noxious refrigerant. By utilizing a thermoelectric heat pump laundry dryer, a refrigerant-free heat pump process is realized making especially the disposal of a laundry dryer more convenient. Moreover, the drying process is more efficient compared to a conventional condensation dryer as both the hot and cold side of the thermoelectric heat exchanger are used in the process.A novel cycle is introduced that combines thermoelectric heat pumping and air cooling by means of ambient air. This cycle is compared theoretically to two conventional cycles of a heat pump dryer and a condensation dryer. Moreover, a comprehensive system model is developed to evaluate the performance of such a dryer. Within the fully transient model temperature dependent material properties and contact resistances are considered. The performance of the thermoelectric heat exchanger is analyzed and significant variables are identified. Simulation results are compared with validated simulation results of a condensation and heat pump dryer. It is shown that the energy consumption of a thermoelectric heat-pump based tumble dryer lies between the two conventional dryers and thus can be seen as a promising technology.