Extraction of energy from heat sources by thermoelectric effect using step-up transformers

Abstract

While a transformer in operation, throughout its entire life cycle dissipates energy, in forms of heat, vibration, & radiation which in fact is not so far conserved or collected. Studies show this waste heat of transformers out of above waste energies, is more prominent to extract than others.

The aim of this study is to search for a method to extract this waste heat energy, from step up (high capacity) transformers, using thermoelectric principles. The thermoelectric couple was used as the basic element of extraction of heat and converts it to electrical energy and stored it for further use. Use of thermopile, thermo module, nano film conductors, quantum dot applications were also considered in enhancing the extraction amount & extraction efficiency.

Through its theatrical modeling using single couple of BiTe - TE, it is found that about 2% efficiency could be reached. Through modular design, nano films there exists a max limit of 7% with the current technology.

With the current experiments and studies of quantum dot / thin films technology, the improvement of quality of material and methods of construction of module, no sooner may reach to a better ground. Although the extracted energy is very minimal it is very free to extract without any operational cost.