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How Do Thermoelectric Coolers (TECs) Work?
The Peltier Effect
Elements of a Thermoelectric Cooler
Thermoelectric coolers from II-VI act as a solid-state heat pump. Each features an array of alternating n- and p- type semiconductors. The semiconductors of different type have complementary Peltier coefficients. The array of elements is soldered between two ceramic plates, electrically in series and thermally in parallel. Solid solutions of bismuth telluride, antimony telluride, and bismuth selenide are the preferred materials for Peltier effect devices because they provide the best performance from 180 to 400 K and can be made both n-type and p-type. The cooling effect of any unit using thermoelectric coolers is proportional to the number of coolers used. Typically multiple thermoelectric coolers are connected side by side and then placed between two metal plates. II-VI features three different types of thermoelectric coolers including: Thermocyclers, Single Stage, and Multi-Stage.
Heat Absorption
Benefits
- No chlorofluorocarbons or refrigerant emissions
- Low maintenance
- Long lifetime
- Controllable
- Compatible with extreme environments or remote locations
- Capable of cooling far below ambient temperatures
- Performance independent of orientation
- Thermal performance
- Cost
- Noise
- Weight
- Size
- Efficiency