A uniform temperature test rig for thermoelectric generator characterization and testing

Abstract

This paper proposes a test rig design to test thermoelectric generators. It outlines the design process and the selection of utilized materials. Selection of the heat source, design of the heater platform, and temperature control and monitoring are all outlined. A LabVIEW interface is developed for this purpose and a TEG is tested. Results show that the desired temperature is reached though at a slow thermal time constant. Characterization of the TEG is also presented where TEG I-V and P-V curves are generated.