THROUGH NERANJAN DHARMADASA JAMES BROWN P09451: Thermo-Electric Module for Large Scale Systems

Introduction Thermoelectrics are very simple solid state devices with two basic modes of operation. The Peltier Effect, involves the application of current through the module, absorbing heat from one side of the device and emitting from the other side. Conversely, the Seebeck Effect can be used for power generation purposes. When a temperature gradient is applied across a TE module an electric current is produced.

Previous Projects P07442 P08451

Mission Statement The focus of this project will be to make improvements to last year's power module unit design, perform more extensive testing and address some issues that surfaces from the preliminary testing done last year. This year‘s team will develop a second generation prototype power module that would more closely simulate a power unit that might be deployed on the exhaust stream of a Dresser-Rand Vectra or other turbine. This unit may include the use of air cooling to simulate a power unit serving both as a power generator as well as a recuperator. The team will make improvements in temperature sensor locations to better monitor heat spreading and understand multidimensional conduction which is currently not accounted for in the modeling. The team will also design and implement strategies for max power tracking and the handling of module array mismatch due to differing temperature gradients.

Customer Needs Test Stand Issues GUI and data processing Temperature measurements Swapping T.E. modules Max point tracking (power) Pressure losses Lack of sensors for multidimensional heat transfer Test Stand Improvements More fin options Design for power requirements Design for specific operating conditions Design for recuperative heating system Additional “zones”

Staffing Requirements Team MemberResponsibilities Team Leader Neranjan Dharmadasa Coordinate efforts to complete project, logistics, running meetings, purchasing, resource management and assistance to other team members as required. Chief Engineer James Brown Lead the engineering effort and ensure the final project goals are met by facilitating communication among team as well as carry out mechanical design. ME-Heat Transfer This student will focus on thermal resistance modeling and heat spreader design for the TE module. ME-Thermal Modeler This student is responsible for understanding theory behind TE modules and the thermal modeling of their resistances. EE-Electrical System Designer This student will assist in characterization of voltage current relationships for TE modules and test systems.

Work Breakdown Structure Team MemberWeek 1Week 2Week 3 Neranjan Dharmadasa Team Leader Set up meeting times, assign tasks, establish team values and norms Ensure access to necessary resources, create specifications, conduct idea generation exercises Continue project management exercises for concept selection, arrive at final project plan James Brown Chief Engineer Familiarize team with current test stand and issues, lay out engineering objectives Prioritize objectives, introduce team to stakeholders, concept generation Assist Team Leader with final project plan and team with concept selection ME- Heat Transfer Thoroughly examine EDGE and become familiarized with the past project Study existing test stand and work closely with Graduate Assistant, concept generation Update team with concept discussion and make selection ME- Thermal Modeler Thoroughly examine EDGE and become familiarized with the past project Study existing test stand and work closely with Graduate Assistant, concept generation Update team with concept discussion and make selection EE- Electrical Systems Designer Thoroughly examine EDGE and become familiarized with the past project Gain understanding of project issues and begin concept generation Update team with concept discussion and make selection

Team Values and Norms Punctuality Organized Devoted/Committed Professional and Ethical Thorough Accurate Meet Guidelines Meet Deliverables on Time

Required Resources Current lab test stand Machine shop Time with Graduate Assistance Time with Faculty Guide, Dr. Stevens Time with Dresser-Rand contacts

Staffing requirements will be met throughout course of project Estimated budget will be provided Existing test stand can be used and improved for this year’s project Assumptions

Budget: $ 7500 Technical Expertise: Familiarizing students with TE modules and the current system Time: All deliverables must be performed within the allotted 22 week timeframe Resources: Time required on machine shop towards building phase of project. Obtaining TE modules that operate under higher temperatures Platform: The project must build upon the existing module and test stand Safety Constraints

Intellectual Property Project will be open source, open architecture. Any information on Dresser-Rand products will be kept confidential Currently established patents will be researched and taken into consideration with progress of project.

Issues and Risks Availability of off the shelf TE modules Delivery of parts on time Parts exceeding budget Data inaccessibility or loss

Outstanding Items Deliverables over the course of the project are to be determined Target specifications are yet to be established