Performance improvement of an automotive thermoelectric generator by introducing a novel split fin structure

Luo, Ding; Yang, Shuo; Zhang, Haokang; Cao, Jin; Yan, Yuying; Chen, Hao

Abstract

In this research, a novel split fin structure is proposed to enhance the performance of automotive thermoelectric generators (ATEGs). The traditional plate fin is segmented into two identical secondary fins from the middle, improving the thermal contact area of fins and the overall performance of ATEGs. To explore the optimal fin geometry, parametric studies are conducted on the split angle (α) and vent height coefficient (e) through numerical simulations. The results demonstrate a significant enhancement in the output performance of the ATEG using split fins compared to using plate fins. Increasing the split angle and reducing the vent height coefficient can enhance the output power, conversion efficiency, and temperature uniformity of the ATEG. At an exhaust mass flow rate of 20 g/s and an exhaust temperature of 550 K, the ATEG with α = 25.04 o and e = 0.8 of split fins exhibits improvements in output power, output voltage, conversion efficiency, and voltage uniformity by 23.71%, 11.28%, 11.29%, and 2.23%, respectively, compared to the ATEG with traditional plate fins. This study provides a solid theoretical foundation and practical guidance for designing novel fins to enhance ATEG performance.

Citation

Luo, D., Yang, S., Zhang, H., Cao, J., Yan, Y., & Chen, H. (2025). Performance improvement of an automotive thermoelectric generator by introducing a novel split fin structure. Applied Energy, 382, Article 125218. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apenergy.2024.125218

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Dec 21, 2024
• Online Publication Date: Jan 2, 2025
• Publication Date: Mar 15, 2025
• Deposit Date: Jan 17, 2025
• Publicly Available Date: Jan 3, 2026
• Journal: Applied Energy
• Print ISSN: 0306-2619
• Electronic ISSN: 0306-2619
• Publisher: Elsevier
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 382
• Article Number: 125218
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apenergy.2024.125218
• Keywords: thermoelectric generator; waste heat recovery; split fin; heat exchanger 2
• Public URL: https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/44232435
• Publisher URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306261924026023