KeepItSimpleStupid thanks for the info on PWM, I just assumed that it would work fine, but in hindsight I can imagine how that could be a problem. In my experience with these tec's so far, I doubt temperature controllers will be helpful. They are reasonable to hold in your hand, hot or cold side, at 12V (from an agilent E36xx, .55A max on the 20V channel, set to 12). I wonder if they were only holdable because of the current limitation of the power supply?
chemelec, thanks for the info as well,
https://www.amazon.com/Vktech-TEC1-...=2025&creative=165953&creativeASIN=B00IKDL22O
these are the tecs I bought, I underquoted a bit by accident, I bought a 5 pack for 18 shipped, so it was closer to $4 each. That link is $2.50 each
The metal plate will be surrounded by fabric, with a wad of kerlix behind the plate (opposite me and the tecs) to help hold the tec's securely against my back. I think that the plate being so insulated should help it work effectively as a heat tank. If you have some reason to think otherwise I would appreciate knowing.
As far as the glue melting and it being very hot in general, I held one in my hand from the agilent 12v I mentioned above. It definetly wasn't hot enough to melt glue, but that may have been due to current limitations of the power supply.
Do you have recommendations for a better way to secure the tec's to the metal plate (with the thermal compound in between)?
Also, I haven't given you my number yet because it seemed like you were fishing for phone numbers. Not because I don't appreciate your help with this, which I do. Thanks again, Dave