Quote:
Originally Posted by jamesqf
Problem is that the thermoelectric diodes aren't all that efficient. Not a problem for a nuclear-powered space probe, of course. Another and more efficient way of reclaiming exhaust energy I've seen is to let it spin a turbine (like a turbocharger), but have a generator in place of the intake side. Called a "TIGER", IIRC.
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No they are not terribly efecient, but never the less, you could easely retrive a significant amount of eletricity from the exaust heat with thermoelectric elements.
Main problem at the moment, is that the TE elements dont like it too hot (those one can afford to buy that is), so actually for instance the exaustmanifold is way to hot for the TE's.
But i can be done. And apart for the cost of materials and labour it would be "free energy" in the sence, that it would otherwise just get lost.
I belive som japaneese company are doing some research in to this, the aim beeing to get rid of the alternator, and replace it wit current genereted with thermo Electric elements placed on the exaust.
I also belive I read an article on this, and it seemed they solved the heatproblem, and could generate enough electricty to run the car with all eletric systems, aircon, headligts etc.
But it was VERY expensive TE elements.