Investigation of Thermoelectric Power Generation Module on Waste Heat Recovery in a Downdraft Gasifier

In this study, the thermoelectric power generation (TEG) module is used to recover waste heat from a downdraft gasifier. The performance and optimal operating temperature of TEG module are studied at different locations on the surface wall of catalyst reactor. The simulation model of downdraft gasifier is performed by using the Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS), its appropriate for the low-speed, thermally-driven flow simulation with an emphasis on incomplete combustion process. The results demonstrate that the simulation temperature of catalyst reactor surface is around 200°C~300°C which is used to convert heat into electricity by TEG module. In summary, the TEG modulus power per unit area can reach 857W/m2 with temperature difference of 140°C and output power attain at least 2.04kW if TEG modulus is applied on the improved downdraft gasifier system (IDGS).