Development of Low Temperature SOFC Systems for Remote Power Applications

摘要

Global Thermoelectric Inc. is developing low cost, low temperature (600°C to 700°C) solid oxide fuel cell systems for applications including remote, automotive and residential power generation. Remote power applications in oil and gas and telecommunication markets have been targeted. Kilowatt level SOFC systems complement Global's existing product line of thermoelectric generators which generate up to 550 W. A complete thermally integrated self-standing 1 kW laboratory system has been designed and tested at Global using sulfur-containing natural gas. The system is composed of three main sectors: SOFC stack, integrated module (afterburner, heat exchanger, and fuel processor), and low temperature regenerative heat exchangers. In the integrated module, indirect internal steam reforming at ambient pressure and S/C ratios of 2.0 to 3.5 was accomplished using a nickel/alumina carrier catalyst. The waste heat from the afterburner was used to drive the endothermic steam reforming reaction and further preheat incoming air. Methane conversions approached equilibrium for the test conditions examined. Global's stack development of planar anode-supported cell technology has resulted in a modular sub-stack arrangement complete with integral gas manifolding in each sub-stack. This arrangement allows for flexibility in stack configurations and excellent serviceability. The development of a pre-commercial 3 kW partial oxidation system will also be discussed.