In the field of thermoelectric cooling (TEC), SolidT pioneers the development of Multistage (cascade) TECs as a cornerstone principle for next-generation cooling and heating solutions. Unlike single-stage TECs, Multistage TECs offer a significant advantage in producing larger temperature differentials (Delta T), making them more efficient in cooling and heating applications.
Benefits of Multistage TECs: Multistage TECs offer a myriad of advantages beyond just increased Delta T. One key benefit is improved temperature uniformity across the cooling surface, ensuring consistent cooling performance even in complex thermal environments. Additionally, the enhanced cooling capacity of Multistage TECs allows for more effective heat dissipation, making them ideal for applications with high heat loads or limited space constraints. Furthermore, Multistage TECs provide greater flexibility in meeting specific cooling requirements, allowing for precise temperature control and customization to suit diverse applications.
Figure 1: Standard multistage TEC with thermal barriers
However, the traditional Multistage TECs face challenges, particularly energy loss between stages due to thermal barriers. These barriers not only reduce efficiency but also limit the maximum cooling capacity (Qcmax) achievable. This dilemma arises because increasing Delta T capability with Multistage TECs often comes at the expense of Qcmax.
SolidT addresses these challenges with innovative solutions. By eliminating thermal barriers between stages, SolidT’s Multistage TECs achieve a substantial increase in Delta T without sacrificing efficiency or compromising Qcmax. This breakthrough allows for more effective heat transfer between stages, enhancing overall system performance.
SolidT offers two main configurations for Multistage TECs: lateral multistage and vertical cascaded designs. In the lateral multistage setup, TEC units are assembled in a sequential manner, facilitating continuous heat transfer between stages. Meanwhile, the vertical cascaded arrangement stacks TECs vertically, allowing for efficient heat dissipation and precise temperature control stage by stage.
Figure 2: SolidT’s lateral multistage TEC micro-chiller
With SolidT’s innovative approach, Multistage TECs hold promise for a wide range of applications, from industrial cooling systems to consumer electronics. By overcoming the limitations of traditional designs, SolidT is driving forward the evolution of TEC technology, delivering solutions that are both efficient and adaptable to diverse cooling needs.