Portable Combustion Generator with Integrated Thermoelectric/Heat Exchanger*

Unlike semiconductors in traditional thermoelectric generators (TEGs), metals with large thermoelectric power factor can fully integrate with the heat exchangers and structural parts of a TEG, because they can be formed into complex shapes and welded. This integrated TEG consists of a combustion chamber with counter-flow heat exchanger, all constructed from commercially available metals. Heat of combustion from the premixed fuel and air is converted directly into electricity by the walls of the heat exchanger. The cold side of the generator is maintained by the entry of the premixed gas flow, which in turn is preheated by the exhaust from the combustion.
Demonstrated here are several variations of the generator, including Monel and Inconel tubes for the heat exchanger, or Constantan and Chromel ribbons. Schematics of each generator are given, along with video demonstrations. We report the thermopower and power factor of available metals, and the performance of the generators including temperature, power output, and efficiency.