Peltier Element BJT Driver

Thread Starter

lijoostenk

Joined Jan 25, 2013
12
Hello.
Currently Iam working on a project, part of which requires me to design a temperature controller using peltier element. I have almost completed the design but I would like to clarify whether the peltier driver that I've used is correct before proceeding towards final implementation.
Since applying a PWM may damage a peltier element, I've chosen a Quasi complementary push pull class B amplifier using BJT's for delivering the required power to the peltier element from the output of a PID processor. The driver consists of Darlington & Feedback pairs, the circuit of which is shown below. Photo1809.jpgIs there any problem in implementing this circuit & How am I supposed to design the two resistors?
 

ronv

Joined Nov 12, 2008
3,770
I could be wrong but I think PWM is ok as long as the voltage is below the peltier rating. I'm thinking you need to heat and cool with the same device?
 

crutschow

Joined Mar 14, 2008
34,285
PWM is okay for Peltiers and gives higher efficiency. For best efficiency and maximum cooling effect when driving a Peltier with PWM you should use an inductor in series with the element and a free-wheeling diode to ground to smooth out the pulses and reduce I-squared-R loss in the Peltier.
 

THE_RB

Joined Feb 11, 2008
5,438
Peltiers also require a minimum frequency if you want to drive them with PWM direct to reduce thermal mehcanical shock that kills them, from memory I think it requires >2000 Hz.

Likewise if you are switching them on/off with a simple controller it helps to ramp the on/off currents over 100mS or so to again reduce the thermal shock.
 
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