Patent ID: 10490725

Abstract:
An integrated combustor-thermoelectric generator and method for producing electrical power and/or for operating a pneumatic device. A thermoelectric generator includes a fuel and air mixture chamber with a combustor connected to the mixture chamber. The combustor including a longitudinal centerbody comprising a varying cross-sectional area along an axial length of the centerbody and a plurality of thermoelectric couples and/or modules disposed axially along sides of the centerbody. The thermoelectric generator can be paired with a DC air compressor for operating a pneumatic device by directing heated gases from the combustor to a plurality of thermoelectric couples and/or modules, and powering the air compressor with the thermoelectric couples and/or modules. The thermoelectric generator and DC compressor can be installed to a natural gas source at a well pad for operating a pneumatic device at the well pad.