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How can thermoelectric cooling (TEC) revolutionise BMS? M.L. Hossain, M.N. Alam and M.S. Rahman from the University of Rostock, Germany, have analysed the use of Peltier coolers for battery cooling, emphasising their effectiveness in managing high temperatures in electric vehicles.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more popular as an alternative to fuel-powered cars. However, one of the biggest challenges is managing the heat produced by Battery Management Systems (BMS) during charging. This study explores a Thermoelectric Cooler (TEC) using the Peltier effect as a simple and efficient cooling solution.
Why is Cooling Important?
When EV batteries charge, components like MOSFETs, transistors, and resistors generate heat, reaching 230°C. If not properly cooled, this heat can damage the system, reduce efficiency, and cause safety issues. Existing cooling methods—like air, liquid, and refrigerants—have drawbacks such as high cost, complexity, and space constraints.
How Does the Thermoelectric Cooler (TEC) Work?
TEC uses p-type and n-type semiconductors that transfer heat when an electric current flows through them. The system is designed to:
- Absorb heat on one side and release it on the other, keeping the BMS cool.
- Be compact and require minimal maintenance, making it suitable for EVs.
Key Findings from the Study
Researchers built a mathematical model of TEC and tested it using MATLAB Simulink simulations. The results showed:
- Cooling power increases with temperature difference but needs to stay within an optimal range.
- More semiconductor pairs (PN cells) improve efficiency.
- The coefficient of Performance (COP) initially rises but drops if the current becomes too high, leading to energy losses.
Conclusion
This study concludes that Peltier-based thermoelectric cooling is a promising option for EV battery management. While further improvements in materials and design are needed, TEC offers a simple, compact, and effective way to manage battery heat, supporting the growing electric vehicle industry.
Visit the ASM Science Journal website to read the whole article.