Thermoelectric energy harvesters

1 May 2013 Power Electronics / Power Management

Nextreme Thermal Solutions announced a new series of thin-film thermoelectric power generators that offer a robust mechanical design and ease of integration with common sources of thermal energy.

The eTEG PG8000 series harvests waste heat from thermal sources, converting it into electricity for a variety of self-powered applications in the wireless sensor, automotive, aerospace, industrial and medical device markets.

The product family includes five new modules that can produce between 2,7 mW and 21,6 mW of output power and open circuit voltages of 0,17 V to 1,35 V at a temperature differential (T) of only 10 K. At 50 K T, they can produce 65 mW to 520 mW of power and open circuit voltages of 0,85 V to 6,8 V. The modules can be configured electrically in series to produce higher output voltage.

The devices can provide electricity to a load directly when a constant heat source is available or can be used in combination with batteries when the heat source is variable. The eTEG PG8000 series operates with moderate heat flux density that matches the heat flux found in common sources of thermal energy such as piping and industrial manufacturing processes. Heat fluxes in this range simplify integration with heatsinks that are necessary to maintain constant heat flow.

The new series features a high mechanical strength seal ring made from Cirlex polyimide film that provides mechanical isolation across the thermoelectric device, virtually eliminating vertical force and sheer issues. The seal ring also serves as a barrier to moisture and other contaminants that could affect the performance of the module.

For more information visit www.nextreme.com

Further reading:

The importance of power integrity
Spectrum Concepts Power Electronics / Power Management
[Sponsored] Behind every high-speed system lies the need for power integrity. Without it, even the cleanest signal paths become compromised.

Read more...

---

Precise multi-vital sign monitoring
Future Electronics Power Electronics / Power Management
The AS7058 by ams OSRAM is an integrated multi-vital sign monitoring device, which provides a complete photoplethysmogram, electrocardiogram, body impedance sensor, and electrodermal activity sensor.

Read more...

---

Automotive battery diagnostics tester
Comtest Power Electronics / Power Management
Midtronics’ MVT handheld battery tester is a revolutionary tool, powered by MDX-AI, which is set to redefine the standards of battery diagnostics and testing in the automotive industry.

Read more...

---

Advanced 3-phase controllers
Future Electronics Power Electronics / Power Management
The STSPIN32G0 by STMicroelectronics is a family of highly integrated system-in-package providing solution suitable for driving three-phase brushless motors.

Read more...

---

Converting high voltages without a transformer
Altron Arrow Editor's Choice Power Electronics / Power Management
With appropriate power converter ICs, such as the LTC7897 from Analog Devices, many applications can be suitably powered without having to use complex and cost-intensive transformers.

Read more...

---

Reliable power for demanding applications
Conical Technologies Power Electronics / Power Management
The Mibbo Power MTR480 three-phase DIN-rail power supply is engineered to meet stringent industrial automation requirements, offering dependable performance in environments where downtime is not an option.

Read more...

---

Powering performance and precision
Future Electronics Power Electronics / Power Management
onsemi’s innovative T10 series MOSFETs, available in 40 V and 80 V versions, are designed for high-efficiency, fast-switching, and power-dense applications.

Read more...

---

Programmable flyback switcher ICs
Future Electronics Power Electronics / Power Management
Power Integrations has announced the release of the InnoSwitch5-Pro family of programmable flyback switcher ICs, which offer more than 95% efficiency in streamlined AC-DC converter designs.

Read more...

---

Multilayer chip beads with 8 A rating
RS South Africa Power Electronics / Power Management
TDK Corporation has expanded its MPZ1608-PH series of large-current multilayer chip beads for automotive and commercial power supply lines.

Read more...

---

The role of bidirectional charging in the evolving energy landscape
Avnet Silica Power Electronics / Power Management
As reliance on renewable sources like wind and solar continues to grow, the need for efficient energy flow and storage solutions has become more critical than ever.

Read more...

---