PASCO ET-8782 Energy Transfer– Thermoelectric - Manual (Page 5)

Model No. ET-8782 Introduction
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1. Peltier Device with Hot and Cold Reservoirs
The Peltier Device is constructed of two ceramic plates with p and n semiconductors in between.
As DC current passes through the device, it pumps heat from one side to the other. Aluminum
blocks are fastened to each side of the peltier in thermal contact with the ceramic plates. These
blocks add thermal mass to the system and act as the traditional Hot and Cold Reservoirs. When
there is a temperature difference across the peltier, it can be switched to Heat Engine Mode, in
which spontaneous heat flow through the device generates an electric current. Do not touch the
hot aluminum block when it is running in Heat Pump Mode. The temperature of this block can
reach 90 °C or higher.
Do not allow the peltier device to reach temperatures above 100 ºC. Always monitor the
temperature of the hot side when the peltier is operating in Heat Pump Mode. Operation between
80 °C and 100 °C will shorten the life of the device; if you operate the device in that temperature
range, do so for the briefest possible time. You can operate the peltier device without damage at
temperatures below 80 °C.
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