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Guide to Peltier Thermoelectric Coolers

Peltier Thermoelectric Coolers: Revolutionizing Cooling Technology

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In 1834, Jean Peltier discovered that by passing a current through two dissimilar conductors, the junction of those materials will either absorb or release heat, depending on the direction of the current flow. Thirteen years earlier, Thomas Seebeck had discovered current would flow when you placed a temperature gradient across the junction of two dissimilar metals. These two discoveries were the basis of thermoelectrics. With the advent of modern semiconductors, thermoelectric assemblies became practical for real-world applications and are now found in everything from consumer goods to spacecraft.

Now, the underlying technology that permits the construction of these thermoelectric assemblies is known as “The Peltier Effect”.  These assemblies utilize two elements of a semiconductor constructed from doped Bismuth Telluride. Upon application of a direct current (DC) power source, these devices generate a cooling action, countered by a generation of heat on the opposite side of the device. This technology allows for the production of Peltier thermoelectric coolers that rely on the efficient transfer of heat with little to no moving parts, making them ideal for a wide range of applications.

 

For a closer look at this critical advancement, EIC Solutions offers a comprehensive technical breakdown of thermoelectric air conditioning in our Guide to Thermoelectric Air Conditioners

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Advantages of Peltier Thermoelectric Coolers

Thermoelectric Cooler graphic

Peltier thermoelectric coolers offer numerous benefits that make them an attractive choice for a wide range of cooling applications:

  • Compact Design: Their small footprint makes Peltier coolers suitable for space-constrained environments, enabling cooling in portable devices and electronics where traditional methods are impractical.
  • Precise Temperature Control: Peltier devices, when used in conjunction with the proper control system, offer exceptionally accurate temperature regulation, crucial for scientific instruments, medical equipment, and industrial processes needing stable thermal conditions.
  • Reliability: With minimal moving parts, Peltier coolers provide extended operational lifespan, reduced maintenance, and lower risk of mechanical failures, making them valuable in critical applications.
  • Versatility: Peltier coolers adapt well across industries, including defense, industrial control, telecommunications, medical equipment, and oil exploration, thanks to their cooling and heating capabilities.
  • Environmental Friendliness: Operating without refrigerants, Peltier coolers align with environmental regulations by eliminating the risk of harmful emissions.

These advantages make Peltier thermoelectric coolers an ideal choice for applications requiring efficient, precise, and reliable temperature control in compact, environmentally conscious designs.

 

EIC Solutions’ Peltier Cooling Assemblies

EICs Thermoelectric CoolerEIC Solutions has pioneered advanced thermoelectric assemblies that leverage the Peltier effect to deliver superior cooling performance across a wide range of applications. EIC’s Peltier assemblies use Thermoelectric “modules” sandwiched between high-performance aluminum heat sinks and one or more high CFM axial fans. Peltier assemblies are coupled with a patented electronic design to “pump” the heat from the inside of an enclosure to the outside, without exposing delicate electronics to any outside air or contaminants. Through proper packaging, EIC has harnessed the cooling properties of these thermoelectric modules into modular air conditioners that can dissipate typical loads of 200, 400, 800, 1500, 2500, 3500 or 5500 BTU/HR. Our assemblies are designed to provide efficient, reliable, and precise temperature control in even the most challenging environments.

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Applications of Peltier Cooling Technology

From cooling sensitive electronic components in industrial settings to maintaining precise temperatures in medical equipment, EIC’s thermoelectric air-conditioned enclosures demonstrate remarkable versatility. Our solutions are tailored to meet the unique requirements of each industry, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.

EIC Solutions’ Peltier thermoelectric coolers find applications in various sectors:

  • Infrastructure: Rail systems, mass transit, power plants, and waste-water treatment facilities rely on thermoelectric coolers to protect vital computers, monitoring equipment, control systems, and communications gear.
  • Industrial: Manufacturing plants, material handling facilities, and scientific laboratories benefit from thermoelectric cooling for computers, industrial controls, machine tools, and drives.
  • Security & Surveillance: Fire protection systems, communications networks, and remote monitoring stations depend on thermoelectric cooling to maintain optimal operating conditions for computers, cameras, RFID readers, and RF components.
  • Military & Defense: In land, air, and sea environments, thermoelectric cooling protects critical communication, encryption, surveillance, and electronic equipment that’s either permanently installed or in mobile applications.
  • Oil & Gas: Both offshore platforms and land-based facilities employ thermoelectric cooling for computers, instrumentation, and process controls.We make available our ThermoTEC™ Class 1, Div. 2 Series ideally suited for hazardous locations.
  • Food Processing & Packaging: Production facilities and packaging plants use thermoelectric cooling to protect computers and control systems for various equipment.
  • Amusement & Theme Parks: Attractions benefit from thermoelectric cooling for ride controls, ticketing kiosks, and audio/video systems.
  • Sports & Entertainment: Venues utilize thermoelectric cooling for LED scoreboards, sound and lighting equipment, and security cameras.

Peltier Thermoelectric Cooling in Action

EIC Solutions leveraged Peltier cooling technology to provide customized thermoelectric cooling systems for Mendenhall Technical Services’ electric start systems aboard military warships. The robust ThermoTEC 145 series air conditioners, which withstand high heat, vibration, and corrosive sea air, perfectly fit the needs for cooling critical VFD and PLC enclosures in the harsh engine room environment. This solution ensures reliable operation under extreme conditions, maintaining the functionality of essential ship propulsion systems.

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Implementing Peltier Thermoelectric Technology

Peltier thermoelectric coolers represent a significant advancement in cooling technology, offering efficiency, reliability, and versatility. EIC Solutions’ thermoelectric cooling technology represents the cutting edge of temperature control solutions. By harnessing the power of the Peltier effect and combining it with our patented designs and robust engineering, we deliver cooling solutions that are efficient, reliable, and versatile across a wide range of industries and applications. Whether you’re looking to optimize performance in critical systems or need a bespoke cooling solution tailored to your unique requirements, EIC Solutions has the expertise and technology to meet your needs.

Ready to explore how our advanced cooling solutions can benefit your operations? Contact us today to discuss your project and discover the EIC difference. Let’s work together to ensure your systems stay cool, efficient, and reliable.

 

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