Cooling technology & Peltier solutions

Eureca implements precise Peltier-based thermal management solutions – from components to ready-to-use systems. The portfolio includes Peltier elements in numerous designs and power ratings, a wide range of accessories (heat sinks and heat exchangers, fans, controllers, sensors), the design and simulation of complete cooling systems, and the development of customer-specific Peltier elements. The goals are reproducible temperatures, robust integration, and energy-efficient control strategies.

Peltier elements (thermoelectric elements) are used when a reliable cooling without moving parts is needed. Peltier elements act as heat pumps and transport heat from one of their side to the other. In order to reach a maximum performance the pumped heat has to be transferred to the surrounding air or to a cooling circuit. For this normally heat sinks (sometime with fans) or heat exchangers with a water cooling circuit are used.

Peltier elements optimized specifically for this purpose can also be used as thermoelectric generators. In this case, a temperature difference on both sides of the Peltier element generates electrical power that can be used, for example, to supply electronic devices.

Peltier elements—designs & performance ranges

Single-stage and multi-stage (cascade) Peltier elements for applications ranging from spot cooling to temperature stabilization. Selection based on Q_c (heat dissipation on the cold side),ΔT_max, I/V point, ceramic (Al₂O₃/AlN), dimensions, number of pairs, and connection layout. Available with pre-mounted thermal interface materials and moisture protection on request. Typical applications: Sensor/detector cooling, optics and laser stabilization, embedded devices.

Accessories: Heat sinks, fans, heat exchangers, controllers & sensors

Suitable heat sinks (passive/active), fan modules, water cooling plates/heat exchangers, power supplies, PWM/PID controllers, and temperature sensors (NTC, PT100/1000). Additional items: Thermal interface materials, gap fillers, seals, and condensation protection. Consulting on RΘ(hot side), air/water cooling, noise generation, IP protection, and EMC aspects.

Project planning & simulation of Peltier cooling systems

Design based on load profile, target temperature, and environment:

• Thermal model (energy balance, influence of RΘ, ΔT, air/water path)
• Control concept (PID/PWM, soft start, current limitation)
• Condensation management (dew point, insulation, dry air)
• Mechanics (surface pressure, flatness, assembly)

Customized Peltier elements

Development according to specifications: dimensions, number of pairs, conductor track/metallization, ceramics (Al₂O₃/AlN), cable/connector, moisture protection. Optional: thermal cycling, traceability (solder/series). Target values: ΔT, Q_c, COP

In short: From the selection of the Peltier element to heat sinks/heat exchangers and control systems to verified commissioning, Eureca provides cooling technology from a single source.

In a three-year research project, Eureca developed fast FPGA-based temperature controllers that are optimized for the special requirements of Peltier elements. The development was funded by the »Central Innovation Program of the Mittelstand« (Zentrales Innovationsprogramm des Mittelstandes (ZIM)).

In particular, the characteristic curve of the thermoelectric element used is taken into account in order to ensure stable control behavior over a wide range, even with high dynamics. Maximum control accuracy is achieved by using several temperature sensors at critical points in the system, such as the hot side of the Peltier element. The controllers are individually optimized and manufactured for the respective application.