Optimum design and experimental study of a thermoelectric ventilator

Thermoelectric technology was introduced into a ventilator providing an active method for heat recovery from exhaust air out of buildings. This study aims to improve the performance of the thermoelectric ventilator using a heat pipe exchanger. First, a mathematical model is proposed to develop an integrated design method and identify the impact factors of TEM's performance. According to the analysis, the optimal design involving a heat pipe exchanger for improving the performance of the thermoelectric ventilator is conducted. Then, the thermoelectric ventilator is analyzed from energy and exergy perspectives. To identify the working current and estimate the ventilator's performance, a simulation program is established. Accordingly, a series of experiments were conducted to test the ventilator's performance under different weather conditions in summer and winter in Changsha, China. Finally, results are analyzed and discussed from energy and exergy perspectives. It is found that the thermoelectric ventilator can provide sufficient energy for fresh air handling and heat recovery from exhaust air. The maximum Coefficient of Performance (COP) is 4.78 in summer mode and 4.16 in winter mode. It is concluded that the thermoelectric ventilator is adequate for the mild weather conditions. According to the exergy analysis, the largest exergy destruction occurs during the process of energy transfer inside the thermoelectric modules (TEMs). Further study should focus on reducing the working current, improving the performance of TEMs, and increasing heat transfer efficiency of the heat exchangers, especially for those on the hot side of TEMs. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.