The use of the thermoelectric effect allows for the practical use of thermal energy that is generated in connection with the use of two different metals. What exactly are thermoelectric phenomena, what types can be distinguished and how are they used in practice?
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What exactly is the thermoelectric effect?
The thermoelectric effect is discussed in the context of the process during which there is a direct conversion of electrical energy into thermal energy, or vice versa - thermal energy into electrical energy. Such conversion is a consequence of the properties of some materials, which have specific properties. The generation of electrical voltage is possible as a consequence of the temperature difference, or due to the change in temperature, which occurs under the influence of the current flow. The use of the phenomenon of temperature differences is possible if cables and wires , as well as contacts are made of at least two different metals.
Observation of the phenomenon is possible thanks to special devices, such as various electrical apparatus or modular apparatus .
Division of thermoelectric phenomena
In practice, there are three variants of thermoelectric phenomena that have a significant impact not only on the energy sector, but also on electronics and the aviation and space industries.
The first of the known ones is the so-called Seebeck effect. It is observed when a temperature difference appears in a given circuit, where a necessary condition is the construction of the given system - two different conducting or semiconducting materials must appear in it. In practice, the Seebeck effect causes the noted temperature difference to cause the movement of charges, with the movement always occurring from the hot side to the cold side.
As a result, an electrical voltage is generated. Seebeck coefficients are used, among other things, to measure temperature by temperature sensors.
The second type of phenomenon is the Peltier effect. It assumes that as a result of current flow through a circuit composed of two different materials, heat is transported between the junctions. According to observations, in the Peltier effect, heat is absorbed in one junction (cooling occurs), and released in the other (heating).
The third variant is the thermoelectric effect called the Thomas effect. It is the most advanced of those mentioned so far. Its essence is the observation that during the flow of current through a material with a variable temperature, heat is released or absorbed, depending on the observed flow direction, as well as the temperature gradient.
The common application and use of thermoelectric phenomena
Different temperatures causing the Seeback, Peltier and Thomas effects find very practical applications in many industries. The most common is the energy sector, where the use of thermoelectric phenomena allows for the recovery of thermal energy, e.g. from industrial waste, electronic devices or combustion engines. This is an excellent way to increase energy efficiency.
Thermoelectric phenomena are also of great importance in the electrical engineering industry. Current flow and the use of different temperature values are commonly used, among others, in portable and stationary computers. Characteristic thermoelectric cooling is an excellent alternative to mechanical cooling of systems. It can therefore successfully replace traditional fans. This is an excellent way to reduce the noise generated by the device.
Practical application of thermoelectric effects also allows for efficient heating of rooms, provided that the current flows in the right direction. In such case, the installation cables must be properly selected and attached.
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