In the modern world, a large number of household appliances and other devices are powered by electricity. At the same time, while on a trip, you have to carry with you chemical current sources capable of generating electricity. But you can also make a thermogenerator with your own hands. This will require some materials, tools and some knowledge.
Content
- Varieties of devices
- Module operation
- Advantages and disadvantages
- DIY making
Varieties of devices
In a chain of dissimilar conductors at a variable temperature, thermo-EMF can occur at the points of contact. Based on this, the so-called Peltier module was developed and created. It consists of 2 ceramic plates, between which a bimetal is installed. When an electric current is applied, one of the plates gradually begins to heat up, while the other cools down at the same time. This ability makes it possible to make refrigerators from such elements.
But the reverse process can also be observed, when a temperature difference will be maintained at the points of contact. In this case, the plates will begin to generate electric current. Such a module can be used to generate a small amount of electrical energy.
Module operation
Thermogenerators of electricity work according to a certain principle. So, depending on the direction of the current, absorption or release of heat is observed in the contact of dissimilar conductors. It depends on the direction of the electricity. In this case, the current density is the same, and the energy is different.
Heating of the crystal lattice is observed if the outflowing energy is less than that that enters the contact. When the direction of the current changes, the opposite process occurs. The energy in the crystal lattice decreases, so the device cools down.
The most popular is the thermoelectric module, consisting of conductors of types p and n, which are interconnected through copper analogs. In each of the elements there are 4 transitions, which are cooled and heated. Due to the temperature difference, it is possible to create a thermoelectric generator.
Advantages and disadvantages
Regardless of whether it is purchased or made by hand, the thermoelectric generator has a number of advantages. So, the most significant of them include:
- Small dimensions.
- The ability to work both in heating and cooling devices.
- When the polarity is reversed, the process is reversible.
- Lack of moving elements that wear out quickly enough.
Despite the existing significant advantages, such a device has some disadvantages:
- Insignificant efficiency (only 2-3%).
- The need to create a source responsible for the temperature difference.
- Substantial energy consumption.
- High cost price.
Based on the above negative and positive qualities, we can say that such a device is advisable use if you need to recharge your mobile phone, tablet computer or light up an LED light bulbs.
DIY making
You can make a thermoelectric generator with your own hands. For this purpose, you will need some elements:
-
Module capable of withstanding temperatures up to 300-400 ° C. - A boost converter whose purpose is to receive a continuous voltage of 5 V.
- Heater in the form of a fire, candle or some kind of miniature stove.
- Cooler. Water or snow are the most popular options at hand.
- Connecting elements. For this purpose, you can use mugs or pots of different sizes.
The wires between the transmitter and the module must be insulated with a heat-resistant compound or conventional sealant. It is necessary to assemble the device in the following sequence:
- Leave only the case from the power supply.
- Glue the Peltier module to the radiator with the cold side.
- Having previously cleaned and polished the surface, you need to glue the element on the other side.
- From the input of the voltage converter, it is necessary to solder the wires to the outputs of the plate.
In this case, the thermogenerator for correct operation must be endowed with the following characteristics: output voltage - 5 volts, output type to connect a device - USB (or any other, depending on preference), the minimum load power should be 0.5 A. In this case, you can use any type of fuel.
Checking the mechanism is quite simple. You can put several dry and thin twigs inside. Set them on fire, and after a few minutes connect some device, for example, a phone for recharging. It is not difficult to assemble a thermogenerator. If everything is done correctly, then it will last more than one year in trips and hikes.
