Numerical Investigation of Performance Enhancement for Thermoelectric Generator System Optimization of HX Fin Shape

Abstract

This paper presents a performance analysis and optimization of heat exchanger fin shapes in a thermoelectric power generation system for ship waste heat recovery. It proposes a new curved fin design aimed at enhancing heat transfer efficiency and maximizing thermoelectric power generation capacity. Numerical analysis and response surface methodology (RSM) focused on 225 parameters to identify the optimal fin shape. Computational analysis using CFX was conducted on the thermoelectric module system with curved fins. The methodology was verified by comparing and analyzing CFD and PIV experimental results for a curved fin. The paper comprehensively compares the fluid dynamics of curved fins and straight fins, highlighting how curved fins improve heat exchange by creating a tip leak vortex. The results demonstrate the superiority of the curved fin design in terms of heat transfer efficiency and net power generation over the conventional straight fin design.