Steam traps are crucial for the correct flow rate of steam in steam systems, making it important to ensure their proper operation. In this thesis, we focused on the development of a power supply module for a process sensor of a steam trap based on the thermoelectric effect. The power supply module was powered by a thermoelectric generator, where the heat flow was provided by exploiting the temperature difference between the steam pipe wall and the surrounding air. Experimental evaluation showed that for proper operation, forced convection on the air side of the thermoelectric generator is required, so that a sufficiently large heat flow rate and thus generated electrical power are provided. To achieve adequate electrical power, a temperature difference of at least 40 K and a hot section side temperature above 140 $ˆ°$C were required. We conclude that the concept of the power supply module is appropriate, but further optimization of the heat dissipation on the air side and evaluation at higher temperatures on the hot side are required.
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