The Seebeck Effect and Thermoelectric Coolers

Seebeck Effect is a phenomenon in which a temperature difference between two dissimilar electrical conductors or semiconductors produces a voltage difference between the two substances. This can be applied to thermal-to-electrical energy conversion.  The Seebeck effect was discovered in 1821 by Thomas Seebeck.  He figured out the temperature difference between the ends of the dissimilar metals in his experiment produced an electric potential (voltage) which can drive an electric current in a closed circuit.

Seebeck Effect in Devices

Seebeck devices are also commonly referred to as thermoelectric devices. Seebeck devices convert heat into energy and are used for low power remote applications and applications that would not be able to support large energy generation. Seebeck devices can be found in consumer products, like cars.  Automotive thermoelectric generators can turn heat produced by the car into energy that helps run the car.  Seebeck devices also have industrial uses with the same purpose of turning heat into energy. The Seebeck effect can help increase efficiency, save a company money, and reduce CO₂ emissions.

Phononic's Thermoelectric Coolers

At Phononic, our thermoelectric coolers (TECs) drive high-quality performance in any laser package. Our innovative solutions provide heat pumping density up to 60% higher than typical performance in a very thin form factor, delivering this with up to 30% less power consumption. We carry off-the-shelf options of all shapes and sizes, but we never try to push you into a standard solution that doesn’t fit. The majority of the TECs we produce are designed to meet exact specifications and package parameters. Phononic TECs are assembled in a US-based, ISO-certified, automated production facility under tight process control and metrology. Our obsession with quality has led to a line of solutions that are unrivaled in terms of quality and performance. And all of our TECs are RoHS compliant.