Numerical and experimental study on thermoelectric radiant panel heating operation

Abstract

This study aims to investigate a principle and strategy for thermoelectric radiant panel (TERP) heating operation using numerical and experimental methods. A numerical simulation model for a TERP was developed based on the finite difference method. Additionally, a mock-up TERP model was constructed to validate the numerical model and define its operation strategy in the heating mode. The results revealed that the TERP can stably operate without fan operation by the Joule effect of the thermoelectric module (TEM). Moreover, the TERP in heating mode showed a lower coefficient of performance (COP) with fan operation when the outdoor air temperature was lower than approximately 23 degrees C. This is because the lower outdoor air temperature could not supply useful heat to the cold side of the TEM during heating. Therefore, it is recommended to use a TERP without fan operation for heating purposes.