Introduction: My Diy Peltier Cooler! - DECOMMISSIONED
I always wanted a means to keep groceries cool enough in my car without having to rush home to my refrigerator. I decided to use an old Peltier heat exchanger I made a few years ago.
I sandwiched the Peltier between two aluminum heat sinks. The bigger one being the hot side. I used plain off the shelf steel epoxy to stick the heatsinks onto the Peltier and it has held firm for a few years plus the heat transfer capability is great!
Step 1: Modding a Cooler.
Step 2: Making an Opening.
Step 3: Securing the Peltier Assembly Onto the Lid.
Step 4: Installing a Recirculation Fan.
Step 5: Temperature Measurement.
Step 6: Getting Power to the Chiller.
For 12 volt power I used the standard car socket plug to give me the 5 Amps my setup requires. The power chord to the chiller I secured to the lid.
The power chord is split into 2 parts so I can power it from a wall adapter or the car 12 volt supply.
I actually used a 5 volt adapter to keep cold food chilled if I'm powering it from household voltage. At 8 watts I can safely keep cold foods cold! Once already cold food is in the cooler, that 5 volt adapter will be sufficient to maintain the coolness. Peltier devices are actually more efficient when powered from low voltages but they won't move as much heat.
Step 7: Testing and Completion!
I will keep it in my car so anytime I get groceries or medication, I don't have to worry about it getting warm!
I hope this instructable has been interesting to you folks.
Update: 4 hours later.
The steel epoxy gave out after 3 years of holding the setup together.
Step 8: RECOMMISSIONED!
Step 9: Revamp!
I have since upgraded the cooler with this updated instructable:
https://www.instructables.com/id/Making-a-Beefy-Peltier-Cooler/
Check it out!