Principle

The Peltier element (thermal generator) is made of many thermo
elements. These are switched on electrically in series and
thermally parallel, so that their thermoelectric voltages are added
together. This experiment demonstrates that a thermo generator can
produce electrical energy from thermal energy. The thermoelectric
voltage of a thermo generator depends on the difference of
temperature across the element. A large storage (aluminium block)
can maintain constant the difference of temperature for a long time
(and in this way also higher), and therefore it is advantageous
when producing energy. The results depend on the ambient
temperature, and therefore, the measuring values can deviate from
the exemplar solution. However, the general behaviour of the
thermal tension remains constant.

Benefits


Experiment is part of a complete solution set with a total of
17 experiments for Renewable Energy Basics and Heat energy

Direct protection of the thermocouple against overheating due
to fixed aluminum plates

Additional aluminum block for storage of heat energy


Tasks


Examine the characteristics of a thermo generator.

Observe what happens when the aluminium plate is warmed up or
cooled down.
Try to operate a small motor by means of the thermo generator.
Additionally, there is a big aluminium block.
Try to find out what relevance it has.


What you can learn about


Thermogenerator

Thermal tension