Heat exchanger for thermoelectric generators

Abstract

The invention relates to a heat exchanger (10) for thermoelectric generators, comprising at least two channels (12, 14) for a cooling medium (16) and at least one channel (24) for a heating medium (26). The inner region (54) of the at least one channel (24) for the heating medium (26) is provided with ribs (42). According to the invention, said ribs (42) are applied in increasing number in the heating flow direction, contributing, inter alia, to a more efficient use and a homogenisation of the heat flow.

Description

Background technique [0001] Depending on the model, up to 35% of the waste heat generated by vehicles is often discharged into the environment without being used. Efficient use of this thermal energy, however, results in a reduction in fuel demand. [0002] The solution to harnessing this exhaust heat is the Thermoelectric Generator (TEG). When there is a temperature difference along the conductors, a voltage is generated at the free ends of the two interconnected conductors. Devices for generating energy from the heat of exhaust gases are known and disclosed, for example, in DE 10 2008 005 334 A1. [0003] In order to utilize the energy of the exhaust gases better, the flow channels through which the heat-dissipating fluid flows partially have reinforcements in the form of ribs, which are usually arranged at equal distances from one another. The ribs increase the surface area of ​​the flow channel and ensure better heat transfer between the heat-dissipating fluid and the f...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

[0005] Channels without ribs have poor heat transfer coefficients and prevent efficient use of exhaust gas energy

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