Pressurisation of IP-SOFC Technology for Second Generation Hybrid Application: Project Summary

Abstract:

<p>The objectives of this project were: <bl> <li>To develop active cell tubes, tube bundles and a 'strip' of tube bundles on a common manifold that will achieve a target performance for a sustained duration when tested under pressurised conditions.</li> <li>To develop reforming modules and bundles capable of being integrated with active cell bundles and strips.</li> <li>To design a multi-kWe fuel cell configuration to support the optimisation of performance, size, weight and cost parameters for integration into 1MW hybrid fuel cell system.</li> </bl></p> <p>The conclusions of this project were: <bl> <li>A major step change in reducing leakage was achieved with no detrimental impact on existing Fuel Cell performance and durability. This was achieved, in part, through an improved understanding and tighter control of, material specifications and process controls used during the construction of single active tubes and multi-tube assemblies.</li> <li>Testing the IP-SOFC technology at pressure provided the first experimental data confirming theoretic predictions of the IP-SOFC performance improvements to be gained by operating at elevated pressure.</li> <li>The introduction of a thinner revised IP-SOFC support tube geometry improved bundle packaging and utilization of available stack volume to achieve increased volumetric power density <li>An innovative hybrid system Off-Gas Combustor concept was successfully tested, which offers additional development potential for wider chemical and automotive industry application.</li> </bl></p> This profile contains information on the project's: <bl> <li>Objectives</li> <li>Summary</li> <li>Contractor</li> <li>Cost</li> <li>Duration</li> <li>Background</li> <li>The Work Programme</li> <li>Conclusions</li> <li>Potential for Future Development</li> </bl>

Author(s):

DTI