Letter to the Editor

摘要

A recent publication applies the finite time thermodynamics and constructal theory to study the distribution of Joule heat going into the hot and cold sides of a TEG and its consequences on optimal allocation of heat exchanger inventory. Nonetheless, the heat transfer model used is incomplete and hence the main results and conclusions of the paper concerning the Joule heat are questionable. Based on a more complete formulation, we shall comment one conclusion relevant to TEG constructal design methodology published in Ref. in this communication. The conclusion involved is the causal relation between the conductance allocation of external heat exchangers and the Joule heat affecting the two junctions in Ref. In their words, "the necessary and sufficient condition for equipar-tition of Joulean heat produced is the equipartition of conductance allocations between high temperature and low temperature heat sources".