Feasibility of Thermoelectrics for Waste Heat Recovery in Conventional Vehicles

摘要: Thermoelectric (TE) generators convert heat directly into electricity when a temperature gradient is applied across junctions of two dissimilar metals. The devices could increase the fuel economy conventional vehicles by recapturing part waste from engine exhaust and generating to power accessory loads. A simple vehicle model showed that Class 8 truck presents least challenging requirements for TE system efficiency, mass, cost; these trucks have fairly high amount heat, low mass sensitivity, travel many miles per year. These factors help maximize savings economic benefits. driving/duty cycle analysis shows strong sensitivity thus electrical output, speed driving cycle. With typical alternator, allow electrification 8%-15% truck's accessories 2%-3% savings. More research should reduce cost improve economics.