Problems
The use of an ATEG presents new problems to consider:
Since the exhaust has to flow through the ATEG’s heat exchanger, kinetic energy from the gas is lost, causing increased pumping losses. This is referred to as back pressure, which reduces the engine’s performance.
To make the ATEG’s efficiency more consistent, coolant is usually used on the cold-side heat exchanger rather than ambient air so that the temperature difference will be the same on both hot and cold days. This increases the radiator’s size since piping must be extended to the exhaust manifold. It also adds to the radiator’s load because there is more heat being transferred to the coolant.
ATEGs are made primarily of metal and, therefore, contribute a significant weight to the vehicle. An ATEG designed for small cars and trucks weighs about 125 lb (57 kg), while for large trucks and SUVs, it can contribute up to 250 lb (110 kg) to the vehicle. The added weight causes the engine to work harder, resulting in lower gas mileage.
Cost is a prevalent issue in ATEGs. Thermoelectric generators with higher efficiencies require higher quality, more expensive thermoelectric materials. With the thermal cycling and vibration of the vehicle, the generator’s longevity is a concern. Although high quality thermoelectric materials could produce more electricity, the cost of replacing them could outweigh the savings in fuel economy.
Read more about this topic: Automotive Thermoelectric Generator
Famous quotes containing the word problems:
“Our young people are diseased with the theological problems of original sin, origin of evil, predestination, and the like. These never presented a practical difficulty to any man,—never darkened across any man’s road, who did not go out of his way to seek them. These are the soul’s mumps, and measles, and whooping- coughs, and those who have not caught them cannot describe their health or prescribe a cure. A simple mind will not know these enemies.”
—Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882)
“I’m no good at being noble, but it doesn’t take much to see that the problems of three little people don’t amount to a hill of beans in this crazy world. Someday you’ll understand that.”
—Julius J. Epstein, U.S. screenwriter, Philip Epstein, screenwriter, Howard Koch, screenwriter, and Michael Curtiz. Rick Blaine (Humphrey Bogart)
“I had many problems in my conduct of the office being contrasted with President Kennedy’s conduct in the office, with my manner of dealing with things and his manner, with my accent and his accent, with my background and his background. He was a great public hero, and anything I did that someone didn’t approve of, they would always feel that President Kennedy wouldn’t have done that.”
—Lyndon Baines Johnson (1908–1973)