A thermodynamic analysis of a thermoelectric cooler is proposed. The coefficient of performance of the cooler is expressed in terms of two dimensionless parameters which are to be optimized. The thermoelectric cooler is considered as an irreversible Carnot-like reversed heat engine. The effect of the external irreversibilities on the coefficient of performance and cooling rate is investigated by the use of finite-time thermodynamic analysis. The coefficient of performance and cooling rate increase with an increase in the temperature ratio defined in the analysis.
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