Theoretical and Experimental Investigation of a Small-Scale,High-Speed,and Oil-Free Radial Anode Off-Gas Recirculation Fan for Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Systems

摘要

A novel steam-driven AOR fan for a 10kW_e SOFC was designed, manufactured, coupled to a 6kW_e, SOFC, experimentally character-ized with air, and its performance compared to a CFD simulation. This fan uses dynamic gas-lubricated bearings, more specifically herringbone-grooved journal and spiral-grooved thrust bearings that have proven to be reliable, even at elevated temperature of up to 220 ℃. The design of the fan is based on a tradeoff between efficiency and low manufacturing cost. Due to the high rotational speeds, the fan performance corresponds to the specified values, although the size isout of the common. The fan blade tip clearance is suggested to have a significant impact also for fans with relatively low pressure rises.