With the increase in temperature at the heat source of the steam iron base, the series circuit of the thermoelectric module will produce a higher voltage, but the electrical power generated still depends on the connected load. This study discusses alternative electrical energy generation, namely thermoelectric generators. By utilizing the heat of the steam iron base and 6 thermoelectrics connected in series. Thermoelectrics utilize temperature differences to produce a voltage that matches the Seebeck effect. The designed power plant consists of thermoelectrics, buckboost converters, 18650 lithium ion batteries and 5 watt 12 volt DC lamps. Testing was carried out with a buckboost converter that was forwarded to the battery. The results of the thermoelectric research that was connected in series and forwarded to the buckboost converter were 12.35 volts with a temperature difference of 49° C. Design modifications to maximize the temperature difference between the hot and cold sides of the module are also important, such as the use of heatsinks or coolers on the cold side to keep the temperature difference high.
Keywords: Alternative Energy, Thermoelectric, Buckboost converter, Seebeck effect