TEC1-12705 Thermoelectric Peltier Cooler Plate

TEC1-12705 Thermoelectric Peltier Cooler Plate is a compact, highly efficient solid-state device utilizing the Peltier effect to create a temperature differential between its two faces. This module contains 127 semiconductor thermocouples connected electrically in series and sandwiched between two ceramic plates. Applying a DC voltage across the leads actively pumps heat from one side (the cold side) to the other (the hot side). Consequently, the TEC1-12705 allows users to achieve precise cooling below ambient temperatures or maintain highly stable temperatures in small electronic assemblies. Therefore, designers frequently use this specific model for its balance of high cooling capacity (Q_max) and a moderate current draw of 5 Amperes.

Key Features:

• Solid-State Construction: This cooler uses no moving parts, refrigerant, or mechanical compressors, offering superior reliability and maintenance-free operation.
• High Cooling Capacity: Rated with a Maximum Cooling Power (Q_max) suitable for mid-range cooling tasks, making it ideal for experimental setups and small refrigerators.
• Reversible Operation: Users can reverse the polarity of the DC voltage to swap the hot and cold sides, allowing the module to be used for both heating and cooling applications.
• Zero Noise and Vibration: Because it operates without any moving components, the TEC1-12705 ensures silent cooling.
• Compact Form Factor: The small, square plate design easily integrates into space-constrained thermal management systems.

Technical Specifications:

• Model Designation: TEC1-12705 (127 couples, 5 A nominal current)
• Maximum Voltage (V_max): 15.4 V_DC (Nominal 12 V)
• Maximum Current (I_max): 5 A (Nominal)
• Maximum Cooling Power (Q_max): ≈ 45 W (At ΔT = 0°C, I_max, V_max)
• Maximum Temperature Difference (ΔT_max): ≥ 65°C (Hot side at 27°C, I_max)
• Internal Resistance: 2.4 Ω to 2.7 Ω (Measured at 25°C)
• Operating Temperature Range: −55°C to +83°C

Mechanical Specifications:

• Number of Thermocouples: 127
• Ceramic Material: Alumina Ceramic (Al₂O₃)
• Sealing: Silicone rubber perimeter sealed for moisture protection (optional)
• Lead Wires: Insulated copper wire, often 20 AWG or 22 AWG

Dimensions:

• Plate Length (L): 40 mm (±0.3 mm)
• Plate Width (W): 40 mm (±0.3 mm)
• Plate Height (H): 3.9 mm (±0.2 mm)
• Lead Wire Length: ≈ 150 mm (Typically Red/Black)
• Weight: ≈ 20 g

Pinout and Wiring:

• Red Wire (Positive): Connect this wire to the positive terminal of the DC power supply.
• Black Wire (Negative): Connect this wire to the negative terminal of the DC power supply.
• Cooling Operation: When the Red wire is positive and the Black wire is negative, the side with the lettering (or the side facing the label) becomes the COLD side, while the opposite side becomes the HOT side.
• Heating Operation: Conversely, reversing the polarity allows the TEC plate to function as a heater.
• Critical Note: You must attach an efficient heatsink and fan assembly to the HOT side to dissipate the waste heat (Q_max + Electrical Power Input) or the device will quickly overheat and fail.

Datasheet Reference:

• Download Thermonamic TEC1-12705 Series Datasheet

Commonly Used in:

• CPU/GPU Water Cooling: Used as a spot cooler in cascade cooling systems to reach sub-ambient temperatures.
• Portable Refrigerators: Powering small, low-power coolers and warmers for travel and camping.
• Laboratory Equipment: Found in thermal cyclers (PCR machines), dew point sensors, and microscope stage temperature controllers.

Applications:

• Active Component Cooling: Providing direct cooling for laser diodes, CCD cameras, and high-power semiconductors to improve performance and stability.
• Temperature Stabilization: Maintaining a precise, stable temperature for optical sensors and communication components.
• DIY Mini-Fridges: Constructing small, custom cooling boxes for beverages or small samples.
• Energy Harvesting: Furthermore, you can use the module in reverse (Seebeck effect) to generate a small DC voltage from a temperature gradient.

Equivalent Models:

• TEC1-12706: A slightly more powerful (6 A) version commonly used when marginally higher cooling capacity is required.
• TEC1-12704: The 4 A nominal current version, which is functionally identical but offers a lower Q_max and reduced power consumption.
• CP20836 (Laird): A high-quality industry-standard alternative with similar dimensions and capacity for professional applications.

Package Includes:

• 1 x TEC1-12705 Thermoelectric Peltier Cooler Plate (40x40mm)