SOFC-система и способ эксплуатации SOFC-системы

Изобретение относится к системе твердооксидного топливного элемента, а также к способу эксплуатации такой системы и может быть применено в энергетике. Система твердооксидного топливного элемента содержит установку реформинга, батарею твердооксидного топливного элемента, топку для получения тепла для установки реформинга. В установку реформинга подается поток газообразного углеводорода и пар. Установка реформинга и топка встроены в один блок для компактности и уменьшения тепловых потерь. В системе предусмотрен блок управления расходом свежего воздуха с помощью нагнетателя. За топкой расположен один или несколько испарителей для охлаждения выхлопного потока топки и выработки пара, который затем подается в установку реформинга. В системе предусмотрен датчик температуры газа, обогащенного водородом, на основании которого блок управления регулирует работу нагнетателя для поддержания содержания кислорода в выхлопном потоке топки в пределах заданного диапазона. Обеспечивается повышение надежности ...

СИСТЕМА ТОПЛИВНОГО ЭЛЕМЕНТА, СОДЕРЖАЩАЯ ИНТЕГРИРОВАННЫЕ КОНДЕНСАТОР КАТОДНОГО ОТРАБОТАВШЕГО ГАЗА И ОХЛАДИТЕЛЬ БАТАРЕИ ТОПЛИВНЫХ ЭЛЕМЕНТОВ

Система топливного элемента содержит батарею топливных элементов и интегрированный блок теплообменника. Интегрированный блок теплообменника содержит охладитель батареи топливных элементов и конденсатор отработавшего катодного газа, установленные рядом друг с другом для охлаждения общим потоком охлаждающего воздуха, который проходит параллельно через охладитель и конденсатор. Система топливного элемента обладает уменьшенными массогабаритными характеристиками. 2 н. и 1 з.п. ф-лы, 6 ил.

ЭНЕРГЕТИЧЕСКАЯ СИСТЕМА С ЭЛЕКТРОХИМИЧЕСКИМ КОНВЕРТЕРОМ, СИСТЕМА С ЭЛЕКТРОХИМИЧЕСКИМ КОНВЕРТЕРОМ И УСТРОЙСТВО ВВОДА-ВЫВОДА ДЛЯ ИСПОЛЬЗОВАНИЯ С РЕЗЕРВУАРОМ ВЫСОКОГО ДАВЛЕНИЯ

Изобретение относится к высокотемпературным электрохимическим конвертерам, таким, как топливные элементы, а более конкретно к высокоэффективным энергетическим или силовым системам, в которых используются электрохимические конвертеры. Электрохимический конвертер размещен внутри резервуара высокого давления, в котором скапливаются горячие выхлопные газы, вырабатываемые конвертером, подаваемые в установки для использования энергии конвертера, такие, как газовая турбина, для комбинированного производства тепловой и электрической энергии. В состав для использования энергии конвертера могут входить, например, газовая турбина или система обогрева, вентиляции или кондиционирования воздуха (ОВКВ). Резервуар высокого давления может содержать теплообменник, например рубашку охлаждения, для охлаждения резервуара высокого давления и/или подогрева реагента электрохимического конвертера перед подачей его в конвертер. В одном из вариантов осуществления изобретения компрессор, входящий в узел газовой турбины ...

СИСТЕМА ПРОИЗВОДСТВА ЭЛЕКТРОЭНЕРГИИ И СПОСОБ ЭКСПЛУАТАЦИИ ЭТОЙ СИСТЕМЫ

... 1. Система производства электроэнергии, содержащая:систему топливных элементов, включающую в себя топливный элемент, сконфигурированный для выработки электрической энергии с использованием газового топлива и окисляющего газа, и корпус, сконфигурированный для размещения топливного элемента;вентилятор;контроллер;устройство сжигания; ивыпускной канал, выполненный с возможностью соединения корпуса и выпускного отверстия устройства сжигания друг с другом и сконфигурированный для выпуска отработанного газа из системы топливных элементов и отработанного газа из устройства сжигания в атмосферу через отверстие выпускного канала, причем отверстие открыто в атмосферу, при этом:вентилятор выполнен с возможностью выпуска газа в корпусе в выпускной канал для вентиляции внутреннего пространства корпуса; иконтроллер выполнен с возможностью приведения в действие вентилятора, когда система топливных элементов находится в состоянии остановки производства электроэнергии, а устройство сжигания работает.2. Система ...

СИСТЕМА ТОПЛИВНЫХ ЭЛЕМЕНТОВ

... 1. Система топливных элементов для генерации тока и тепла из жидкого и газообразного топлива, содержащая риформинг-установку и батарею топливных элементов, имеющую рабочую температуру свыше 120°C и предоставляющую тепло отработанных газов, которое используется для парообразования в каналах (2) испарения, отличающаяся тем, что ! каналы (2) испарения размещаются так, чтобы находиться в прямом тепловом контакте с батареей (1), которую нужно охлаждать, и тем, что ! на выпуске каналов (2) испарения располагается поддерживающее давление устройство для регулирования давления в упомянутых каналах до значения, которое приведет к нужной температуре батареи. !2. Система по п.1, отличающаяся тем, что поддерживающее давление устройство содержит поддерживающий давление клапан (16), при помощи чего водоотделитель (15) встраивается перед упомянутым поддерживающим давление клапаном. ! 3. Система по п.1, отличающаяся тем, что батарея (1) заключается в сосуд (3) с вакуумной изоляцией с нагревателем (4) в ...

SOFC-система и способ эксплуатации SOFC-системы

УСТРОЙСТВО ДЛЯ ПРОИЗВОДСТВА ЭЛЕКТРОЭНЕРГИИ ДЛЯ ПОДВОДНОЙ ЛОДКИ, СОДЕРЖАЩЕЕ ТОПЛИВНЫЙ ЭЛЕМЕНТ

... 1. Подводная лодка, содержащая устройство для производства электроэнергии (4, 104, 204), включающее в себя топливный элемент, средства подачи газообразного кислорода, средства подачи углеводородного топлива и средства отвода отработавших газов, отличающаяся тем, что топливный элемент (24) является элементом с внутренним риформингом, работающим при высокой температуре и высоком давлении, причем рабочее давление (Р) элемента больше или равно давлению погружения (Р) подводной лодки (2), тем, что средства подачи газообразного кислорода (11) и средства подачи углеводородного топлива (15, 115) выполнены с возможностью подачи газообразного кислорода и углеводородного топлива под давлением, адаптированным к рабочему давлению, чтобы газообразный кислород и углеводородное топливо могли нагнетаться непосредственно в элемент, и тем, что средства отвода отработавших газов (20, 220) выполнены с возможностью отводить отработавшие газы наружу погруженной подводной лодки.2. Подводная лодка по п.1, отличающаяся ...

СИСТЕМА ТОПЛИВНОГО ЭЛЕМЕНТА, СОДЕРЖАЩАЯ ИНТЕГРИРОВАННЫЕ КОНДЕНСАТОР КАТОДНОГО ОТРАБОТАВШЕГО ГАЗА И ОХЛАДИТЕЛЬ БАТАРЕИ ТОПЛИВНЫХ ЭЛЕМЕНТОВ

... 1. Система топливного элемента, содержащая: батарею топливных элементов, включающую в себя анодное впускное отверстие для входа в него потока топлива, катодное впускное отверстие для входа в него потока кислорода, катодный выход для выведения катодного отработавшего газа, и канал хладагента для направления хладагента через батарею топливных элементов; и интегрированный блок теплообменника, содержащий конденсатор катодного отработавшего газа и охладитель батареи топливных элементов, установленные рядом друг с другом для их охлаждения общим охлаждающим потоком воздуха, который проходит параллельно через конденсатор и охладитель; при этом конденсатор включает путь конденсации, находящийся в теплообмене с охлаждающим потоком воздуха, для отвода тепла катодного отработавшего газа в охлаждающий поток воздуха; первый впускной патрубок, посредством текучей среды сообщающийся с катодным выходом, чтобы принимать из него катодный отработавший газ, и соединенный с путем конденсации, чтобы направлять ...

Electrical power generating device for gas-fired water heater - uses electrolytic fuel element associated with each burner flame

The electrical generation device for a gas-fired water heater uses an electrolytic fuel element (1) in the working range of each gas burner flame (32) associated with a converter allowing the carbon monoxide to be converted into carbon dioxide and hydrogen and a DC/AC converter allowing the generated DC voltage to be converted into an AC voltage. - Pref., the converter has a fan allowing combustion air to be fed to the converter, controlled by a flame monitor together with the water circulation pump and the gas supply valve.

Brennstoffzellenfahrzeug

Ein Brennstoffzellenfahrzeug hat ein Brennstoffzellenmodul, einen Abgabeanschluss, durch den Abgas, das Wasser enthält, das in dem Brennstoffzellenmodul erzeugt wird, abgegeben wird, wobei der Abgabeanschluss an einem Unterboden und zwischen einer Vorderradachse und einer Hinterradachse des Brennstoffzellenfahrzeugs angeordnet ist, und einem Führungsabschnitt, der das Abgas so führen kann, dass es zu einer hinteren Seite jenseits der Hinterradachse strömt, wenn das Brennstoffzellenfahrzeug in einem Nichtfahrzustand ist.

Lüftungssystem und Verfahren zu dessen Betrieb

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft unter anderem ein Verfahren zum Betreiben eine Lüftungssystems (12) für einen Raum, bei dem ein über eine Außenluftzufuhr (15) bereitgestellter Zuluftstrom (18) in das Lüftungssystem (12) eintritt und über eine Lüftungseinrichtung (19) des Lüftungssystems (12) eine Zuluftzufuhr (22) erzeugt und dem Raum als Zuluft bereitgestellt wird, und bei dem aus dem Raum abgeführte Abluft über eine Abluftabfuhr (24) als Abluftstrom (25) über die Lüftungseinrichtung (19) geführt wird und als Fortluftstrom (25a) über eine Fortluftabfuhr (40) aus dem Lüftungssystem (12) abgeführt wird. Damit ein guter Betrieb bei einer gleichzeitig möglichst geringen Anzahl von Systemkomponenten durchgeführt werden kann, ist das Verfahren durch folgende Schritte gekennzeichnet:a) Bestimmen von Volumenstromwerten eines Fortluftstroms (25a), mittels einer Einrichtung (29) zum Bestimmen des Volumenstroms;b) Bestimmen von definierten Druckverlustwerten in einer Komponente (16, 30) des Lüftungssystems ...

Montageaufbau von elektrischer Ausrüstung

Montageaufbau einer elektrischen Ausrüstung (100A, 100B) an einem Fahrzeug (10) mit: einem Gehäuse mit mindestens sechs Flächen für das Unterbringen der elektrischen Ausrüstung (100A, 100B), und einer Halteeinheit (100A1) für das Halten eines Bodens des Gehäuses an einer Bodenplatte des Fahrzeugs (10), wobei die elektrische Ausrüstung (100A, 100B) einen Aufbau von einer annähernd rechtwinkligen Parallelepipedform besitzt, und das Gehäuse einen Aufbau besitzt, bei dem sich eine obere Seite des Gehäuses an einer hinteren Position weiter als die Bodenseite erstreckt, und das Gehäuse einen Aufbau hat, bei dem sich die Bodenseite des Gehäuses an einer vorderen Position, die der hinteren Position entgegengesetzt ist, weiter als die obere Seite erstreckt, ein Querschnitt des Gehäuses bei einer Betrachtung von einer Seite annähernd ein Parallelogramm mit einer horizontalen Basis ist, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die elektrische Ausrüstung (100A, 100B) in dem Gehäuse derart angeordnet ist, dass ...

Fortbewegungsmittel mit Brennstoffzelle

Es wird eine Technik zur Verbesserung einer Einlassstruktur bereitgestellt, die Außenluft in ein Brennstoffzellenfahrzeug einsaugt. Ein Brennstoffzellenfahrzeug 10 umfasst einen ersten und einen zweiten Kühlergrill 11 und 12, die so ausgestaltet sind, dass sie nach vorn offen sind und Außenluft ansaugen. Ein Lufteinlass 100 ist in einem Fahrzeuginnenraum 10r des Brennstoffzellenfahrzeugs 10 positioniert. Der Lufteinlass 100 ist an einem Ort hinter und über dem ersten Kühlergrill 11 angeordnet und so ausgestaltet, dass er die Luft als reaktives Gas ansaugt, das an eine Brennstoffzelle 21 zu liefern ist. Ein Strömungspfad-Element 120 ist an einem Ort vor und unter dem Lufteinlass 100 und hinter dem ersten Kühlergrill 11 angeordnet. Das Strömungspfad-Element 120 weist einen geneigten Wandabschnitt 121 auf, der so angeordnet ist, dass er dem ersten Kühlergrill 11 gegenüberliegt, und von vorn nach hinten schräg nach oben geneigt ist.

Verfahren zur Erzeugung von elektrischer Energie mittels eines Brennstoffzellensystems und Brennstoffzellensystem

Um ein Verfahren zur Erzeugung von elektrischer Energie mittels eines Brennstoffzellensystems, bei welchem einem oder mehreren Brennstoffzellenblöcken ein Brennstoff und ein Oxidator zugeführt werden und in einem Brennstoffzellenblock eine Umwandlung von chemischer Energie in elektrische Energie erfolgt, bereitzustellen, durch das das Brennstoffzellensystem einfach aufbaubar ist, wird vorgeschlagen, daß Zuführungsparameter von Brennstoff und Oxidator fest vorgegeben werden.

INTEGRIERTE FLUIDVERTEILERSCHICHT FÜR REAKTANT UND KÜHLMITTEL FÜR EINE BRENNSTOFFZELLE MIT EINER MEMBRAN-ELEKTRODEN-EINHEIT

Verfahren zum Betrieb eines Festelektrolyt-Hochtemperatur-Brennstoffzellenmoduls und dazu geeignetes Festelektrolyt-Hochtemperatur-Brennstoffzellenmodul

Brennstoffzellensystem

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Brennstoffzellensystem (1) mit einer Brennstoffzelle (2), welche einen Anodenraum (3) und einen Kathodenraum (4) aufweist, mit einer Luftfördereinrichtung (10), durch welche Luft als Sauerstofflieferant über eine Zuluftleitung (9) zu dem Kathodenraum (4) geführt ist, und mit einem thermoelektrischen Generator (16), welcher in thermischem Kontakt mit der verdichteten Zuluft in Strömungsrichtung nach der Luftfördereinrichtung (10) steht. Die Erfindung ist dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der thermoelektrische Generator (16) außerdem mit einem zweiten Gasstrom in thermischem Kontakt steht, welcher kühler als die verdichtete Zuluft ist.

BRENNSTOFFZELLE MIT INTEGRIERTEM WÄRMETAUSCHER

BRENNSTOFFZELLENANLAGE MIT WÄRMENUTZUNG DES KATHODENGASES UND VERFAHREN ZU IHREM BETRIEB

TURBOGEBLÄSE MIT LAUFRADEINHEIT - KÜHLERLÜFTER FÜR EINE BRENNSTOFFZELLE

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft ein Turbogebläse mit einem Laufradeinheit - Kühlerlüfter für eine Brennstoffzelle und insbesondere ein Turbogebläse mit einem Laufradeinheit - Kühlerlüfter für eine Brennstoffzelle, wobei das Turbogebläse den Wirkungsgrad und die Haltbarkeit einer Laufradeinheit verbessert, indem ein Temperaturanstieg durch Kühlung der Laufradeinheit, die Hochdruckluft erzeugt, unter Verwendung einer Kühlstruktur verhindert wird, die sowohl eine Luftkühlung als auch eine Wasserkühlung verwendet.

Brennstoffzellensystem

Brennstoffzellensystem (1) mit einer Brennstoffzelle (2), einer Luftzuführungsleitung (3) zum Zuführen von Umgebungsluft in die Brennstoffzelle (2) und einer Abluftleitung (4) zum Abführen der reagierten Umgebungsluft aus der Brennstoffzelle (2). Ein Verdichter (5) ist in der Luftzuführungsleitung (3). Stromabwärts des Verdichters (5) ist parallel zu der Brennstoffzelle (2) zumindest ein weiterer Verbraucher (21, 22, 23) von Umgebungsluft angeordnet.

ELEKTRISCHE LEISTUNGSQUELLE

Energiegewinnungssystem unter Verwendung einer Festoxidbrennstoffzelle auf der Abgasseite einer Brennkraftmaschine

BRENNSTOFFZELLENANLAGE MIT VERBUNDMEMBRAN FÜR STOFFTRANSPORT

Gebläseumkehrbetrieb für eine Fahrzeugkühlanordnung

Es ist eine Anordnung zur Verringerung der Zeitdauer offenbart, die ein Brennstoffzellenmotor eines Fahrzeugs benötigt, um seine Betriebstemperatur beim Fahrzeugstart zu erreichen. Die Anordnung umfasst einen Kühler und ein Gebläse, wobei ein Kühlfluid von dem Motor durch den Kühler geführt wird, in dem sie durch eine Luftströmung von dem Gebläse bei Hochlastbedingungen gekühlt wird. Der Kühler nimmt auch Umgebungsluft durch einen Kühlergrill aus der Bewegung des Fahrzeugs auf. Während eines Fahrzeugstarts, wenn sich der Motor unterhalb seiner optimalen Betriebstemperatur befindet, wird das Gebläse in einer Umkehrrichtung mit variablen Drehzahlen abhängig von der Geschwindigkeit des Fahrzeugs betrieben, so dass die Luftströmung durch den Kühlergrill, die den Motor ansonsten konvektiv kühlen kann, erheblich verringert oder beseitigt ist.

Brennstoffzellenanlage

The invention relates to a fuel cell system that contains at least one fuel cell module functioning according to the HT-PEM principle. The aim of the invention is to render harmless at least the excess hydrogen gas that accumulates on the hydrogen side of the individual fuel cell unit, by means of an exhaust gas catalyst (25). Pollution of the environment by hydrogen is thus prevented. The invention also relates to exhaust gas catalysts for the carbon monoxide and/or hydrocarbons that are present in the exhaust gas.

Exhaust apparatus of air-cooled fuel cell vehicle

Improved fuel cell systems and methods

A fuel cell arrangement

Exhaust system for air-cooled fuel cell vehicle

A solid oxide fuel cell system

Cooling system for fuel cells

A method and apparatus for operating an intermediate-temperature solid-oxide fuel cell stack

Fuel Cell Stack And Reformer Arrangement

A fuel cell stack and reformer assembly is provided, for use in fuel cell stack system assemblies requiring a reformer to fully or partially reform inlet fuel, comprising a base plate 11; a fuel cell stack 19; a reformer unit 1 which comprises a reformer 2, a fuel steam mix inlet 14, a reformate chamber 30, and a reformate outlet 18a, wherein a wall of the reformate chamber 30 defines a heat exchange interface 17; and a fuel steam mixing chamber 10 having inlets for fuel and steam and an outlet arranged to feed into the fuel steam mix inlet 14 of the reformer. The fuel steam mixing chamber 10 is disposed between the base plate 11 and the reformate chamber 30 so as to act as a thermal break, and is in part defined by the heat exchange interface 17 so as to enable heat exchange between in-use reformate gas 15 in the reformate chamber and in-use fuel steam mix 9 in the fuel steam mixing chamber 10, in order to cool the reformate gas 15 to a temperature at or below the operating temperature ...

Fuel cell heat exchange system and methods

COOLANT FLUID FEED TO FUEL CELL STACKS

A fuel cell stack assembly has a plurality of cells each having a fluid coolant conduit. A coolant feed manifold has a first inlet 15 and a second inlet 16 and is coupled to each fluid coolant conduit for distribution of fluid coolant within each cell. A pump 20 is coupled for delivery of fluid coolant to the coolant feed manifold through the first and second inlets. A flow control assembly is configured to periodically modify the relative flow rates of fluid coolant through the first and second inlets so that stagnant regions in the coolant feed manifold are avoided. The flow control assembly may also be adapted to periodically interrupt the flow path between the pump and the manifold such that the fluid coolant is delivered to the manifold intermittently, thereby enabling low water flows below a minimum set point of the pump.

A method and apparatus for operating an intermediate-temperature solid-oxide fuel cell stack

A solid oxide fuel cell system

Fuel cell vehicle heating system using the fuels cells exhaust heat

Integrated fuel cell and additive gas supply system for a power generation system including a combustion engine

A SOLID OXIDE FUEL CELL SYSTEM

A solid oxide fuel cell system (10) comprises a solid oxide fuel cell stack (12) and a gas 5 turbine engine (14). The solid oxide fuel cell stack (12) comprises a plurality of solid oxide fuel cells (16). The gas turbine engine (14) comprises a compressor (24) and a turbine (26). The compressor (24) supplies oxidant to the cathodes (22) of the fuel cells (16) via an oxidant ejector (60) and the oxidant ejector (60) supplies a portion of the unused oxidant from the cathodes (22) of the fuel cells (16) back to the cathodes (22) of 10 the fuel cells (16) with the oxidant from the compressor (24). The fuel cell system (10) further comprises an additional compressor (64), an electric motor (66) arranged to drive the additional compressor (64), a cooler (70) and a recuperator (72). The compressor (24) supplies oxidant via the cooler (70) to the additional compressor (64) and the additional compressor (64) supplies oxidant to the oxidant ejector (60) via the 15 recuperator (72). The solid oxide ...

Vehicle fuel cell cooling device and fuel cell vehicle

In the present invention, a grill shutter (36) is disposed between a front grill (31) and an air intake duct (32). This grill shutter (36) can open and close a shutter member (37), and when opening the shutter member (37) the grill shutter (36) can adjust the opening degree of the shutter member (37). When the maximum air flow rate supplied by running wind is greater than the air flow rate required by a hydrogen fuel cell (11), the air flow rate required by the hydrogen fuel cell (11) is accounted for solely by means of opening-and-closing control of the shutter member (37) through the issuing of grill shutter opening degree instructions. Otherwise, the grill shutter member (37) is fully opened through the issuing of grill shutter opening degree instructions, maximizing the running wind taken in from the front grill (31), and the lacking air flow rate required by the hydrogen fuel cell (11) is accounted for by activating a blower (22) through the issuing of blower speed instructions.

Fuel cell device for vehicle

Sofc stack system assembly with thermal enclosure

PRESSURIZED FUEL CELL POWER PLANT WITH STEAM POWERED COMPRESSOR

ELECTROCHEMICAL CELL OPERATION AND SYSTEMS

Evaporatively cooled fuel cell systems with turbine boost by exhaust streams

Hydrogen generator and a method for generating hydrogen

The application provides a hydrogen generator. The hydrogen generator includes a reaction chamber in which at least one water conduit tubing, at least one water dispenser, and at least one hydrogen collector are provided, a supply water tank, a water pump, an electric power supply, and a controller. The reaction chamber is provided for containing a rea­gent. The water conduit tubing includes a water conduit tubing inlet being fluidically connected to the supply water tank and a water conduit tubing outlet. The water dispenser includes a water dispenser inlet being fluidically connected to the water conduit tubing outlet and a surface with a plurality of water outlet channels. The controller is adapted to activate the wa­ter pump for transferring water from the supply water tank to the reaction chamber for interacting with the reagent in the reaction chamber to generate hydrogen gas. The hydrogen collector includes a surface with a plurality of gas inlet chan­nels for receiving the hydrogen ...

Air supply system

An air supply system, comprising at least two air blowers and at least two communication valves; wherein one air blower is connected to a main air passage through the corresponding communication valve; and at least one other is connected to a reformer air passage and a stack air passage through at least one other communication valve, respectively. At least two air blowers are provided to connect the at least two communication valves.

A fuel cell and methods of decoupling reactant and coolant fluid flow in a fuel cell

Fuel cell systems and method

A fuel cell system 200 includes a fuel cell stack 205 comprising at least one fuel cell with anode 220 and cathode 210 gas inlets and outlets. The fuel cell system further comprises (i) a reformer 234 comprising an inlet and outlet for anode inlet gas and a reformer heat exchanger, (ii) a pre-heater 262 for heating cathode inlet gas and which comprises a pre-heater heat exchanger, and (iii) a heat source 255 for providing heat source gas. A heat source gas main fluid flow path 240 passes from the heat source to the reformer heat exchanger to the pre-heater heat exchanger, while a heat source gas bypass fluid flow path 250 splits from the heat source gas main fluid flow path upstream of the reformer heat exchanger and is arranged to divert a portion of the heat source gas around the reformer and directly to the pre-heater heat exchanger. The reformer heat exchanger exchanges heat between the anode inlet gas and the heat source gas, and the pre-heater heat exchanger exchanges heat between ...

ELECTRO-CHEMICAL GAS CELL WITH FLUID DISTRIBUTION LAYER

PROTONENLEITENDE POLYMERMEMBRAN BRENNSTOFFZELLE

EINRICHTUNG ZUR ERZEUGUNG VON ELEKTRISCHEM STROM UND WÄRME MIT MINDESTENS EINER BRENNSTOFFZELLE

GAS CELL, WHICH COVERS A COOLING DEVICE WITH THE HELP OF A COOLING AGENT GAS

VORRICHTUNG UND VERFAHREN ZUR BEREITSTELLUNG ZUMINDEST EINES PROZESSGASES

VORRICHTUNG UND VERFAHREN ZUM BETRIEB EINER HOCHTEMPERATURBRENNSTOFFZELLE

BRENNSTOFFZELLENANORDNUNG

Vorrichtung sowie Verfahren zum Betreiben einer Vorrichtung

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Vorrichtung (1), umfassend ein System (2), zumindest eine Gasverarbeitungseinheit, wobei die zumindest eine Gasverarbeitungseinheit (3) innerhalb der System (2) angeordnet ist, einen Brennstofftank (4) und eine Brennstoffzuführleitung (5), wobei die Brennstoffzuführleitung (5) den Brennstofftank (4) und die Gasverarbeitungseinheit (3) miteinander verbindet, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass ein Verdampfer (6) vorgesehen ist, wobei der Verdampfer (6) in der Brennstoffzuführleitung (5) stromaufwärts der System (2) und stromabwärts des Brennstofftanks (4) angeordnet ist. Weiter betrifft die Erfindung ein Verfahren zum Betreiben einer Vorrichtung 1, insbesondere einer solchen Vorrichtung 1.

Reinigungsvorrichtung, Brennstoffzellensystem, Biomasseanlage und Verfahren zum Betreiben einer Reinigungsvorrichtung

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft eine Reinigungsvorrichtung (10) zum Reinigen von Produktgas aus einem Biomassevergaser (50) für die Verwendung in einem Brennstoffzellenstapel (31) eines Brennstoffzellensystems (30), aufweisend einen Reaktor (13), der ein Reaktorgehäuse (14) mit einem Produktgaseinlass (15) zum Einbringen von Produktgas in das Reaktorgehäuse (14) und einem Produktgasauslass (16) zum Auslassen von gereinigtem Produktgas aus dem Reaktorgehäuse (14) umfasst, wobei im Reaktorgehäuse (14) mehrere unterschiedliche Reaktionsschichten (17, 18, 19) zum Entfernen von unterschiedlichen Verunreinigungsbestandteilen aus dem Produktgas angeordnet sind. Ferner betrifft die Erfindung ein Brennstoffzellensystem (30) mit einer erfindungsgemäßen Reinigungsvorrichtung (10), eine Biomasseanlage (50) mit einem erfindungsgemäßen Brennstoffzellensystem (30) sowie ein Verfahren zum Betreiben einer erfindungsgemäßen Reinigungsvorrichtung (10).

Stationary fuel cell system with heating device outside the Hotbox

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft ein Brennstoffzellensystem (1a; 1b), aufweisend zumindest eine Brennstoffzelleneinheit (2) mit einem Anodenabschnitt (3) und einem Kathodenabschnitt (4) zum Erzeugen elektrischer Leistung, zumindest einen Reformer (5) zum Reformieren eines Brennstoffgemisches in ein Anodenzuführgas, zumindest einen Abgasbrenner (6) zum Verbrennen von Anodenabgas vom Anodenabschnitt (3) und/oder Kathodenabgas vom Kathodenabschnitt (4), und zumindest eine Heizvorrichtung (7) zum Vorheizen des Abgasbrenners (6) während eines Aufheizbetriebs des Brennstoffzellensystems (1a; 1b), wobei die zumindest eine Brennstoffzelleneinheit (2), der zumindest eine Reformer (5) und der zumindest eine Abgasbrenner (6) innerhalb einer Hotbox (8) des Brennstoffzellensystems (1a; 1b) angeordnet sind und die Heizvorrichtung (7) außerhalb der Hotbox (8) angeordnet ist, wobei die zumindest eine Brennstoffzelleneinheit (2), der zumindest eine Reformer (5) und der zumindest eine Abgasbrenner (6) ...

Brennstoffzellensystem

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft ein Brennstoffzellensystem (10), aufweisend wenigstens einen Brennstoffzellenstapel (11) mit einem Anodenabschnitt (12) und einem Kathodenabschnitt (13), einen Ejektor (14), eine Brennstoffgemischleitung (15) zum Leiten eines Brennstoffgemisches, das Primärbrennstoff und Sekundärbrennstoff aufweist, vom Ejektor (14) zum Anodenabschnitt (12), eine Primärbrennstoffleitung (16) zum Zuführen des Primärbrennstoffs zum Ejektor (14), und eine Rezirkulationsleitung (17) zum Rückführen des Sekundärbrennstoffs vom Anodenabschnitt (16) zum Ejektor (14), wobei sich die Primärbrennstoffleitung (16) für eine wärmeübertragende Verbindung zwischen dem Sekundärbrennstoff und dem Primärbrennstoff zumindest abschnittsweise durch ein Wärmetauschvolumen (18) innerhalb der Rezirkulationsleitung (17) erstreckt, wobei der Ejektor (14) eine Düse (20) aufweist und sich die Primärbrennstoffleitung (16) innerhalb des Wärmetauschvolumens (18) bis zur Düse (20) erstreckt.

Fuel cell system and method for heating a fuel cell system

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft ein Brennstoffzellensystem (1a; 1b), aufweisend eine Brennstoffzelle (2) mit einem Anodenabschnitt (3) und einem Kathodenabschnitt (4), einen Anodengaswärmetauscher (5) mit einer kalten Seite (6) zum Leiten von Anodenzuführgas zum Anodenabschnitt (3) und einer heißen Seite (7) zum Aufheizen des Anodenzuführgases durch Anodenabgas aus dem Anodenabschnitt (3) und/oder Kathodenabgas aus dem Kathodenabschnitt (4), einen Kathodengaswärmetauscher (8) mit einer kalten Seite (9) zum Zuführen von Kathodenzuführgas zum Kathodenabschnitt (4) und einer heißen Seite (10) zum Aufheizen des Kathodenzuführgases durch Kathodenabgas aus dem Kathodenabschnitt (4), wobei die heiße Seite (7) des Anodengaswärmetauschers (5) und/oder die heiße Seite (10) des Kathodengaswärmetauschers (8) jeweils einen Katalysator (27, 28) aufweisen. Ferner betrifft die Erfindung ein Verfahren zum Aufheizen eines erfindungsgemäßen Brennstoffzellensystems (1a) sowie die Verwendung eines erfindungsgemäßen ...

EINRICHTUNG ZUR ERZEUGUNG VON ELEKTRISCHEM STROM UND WÄRME MIT MINDESTENS EINER BRENNSTOFFZELLE

EINRICHTUNG MIT MINDESTENS EINER BRENNSTOFFZELLE

BLOCKHEIZKRAFTWERK

Method for cooling a fuel cell stack with partially reformed fuel

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren zum Kühlen eines Brennstoffzellenstapels (10) in einem Brennstoffzellensystem (100a; 100b), wobei der Brennstoffzellenstapel (10) einen Anodenabschnitt (11) und einen Kathodenabschnitt (12) aufweist und im Brennstoffzellensystem (100a; 100b) ein Reformer (20) zum Reformieren von Brennstoff für den Anodenabschnitt (11) angeordnet ist, wobei Brennstoff im Reformer (20) teilweise reformiert wird und der teilweise reformierte Brennstoff zum Kühlen des Brennstoffzellenstapels (10) dem Anodenabschnitt (11) zugeführt wird. Ferner betrifft die Erfindung ein Brennstoffzellensystem (100a; 100b), eine Steuereinheit (1), eine Speichereinheit (2), ein Computerprogrammprodukt (3) sowie ein Fahrzeug (1000).

Stationary fuel cell system with heating device outside the Hotbox

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft ein Brennstoffzellensystem (1a; 1b), aufweisend zumindest eine Brennstoffzelleneinheit (2) mit einem Anodenabschnitt (3) und einem Kathodenabschnitt (4) zum Erzeugen elektrischer Leistung, zumindest einen Reformer (5) zum Reformieren eines Brennstoffgemisches in ein Anodenzuführgas, zumindest einen Abgasbrenner (6) zum Verbrennen von Anodenabgas vom Anodenabschnitt (3) und/oder Kathodenabgas vom Kathodenabschnitt (4), und zumindest eine Heizvorrichtung (7) zum Vorheizen des Abgasbrenners (6) während eines Aufheizbetriebs des Brennstoffzellensystems (1a; 1b), wobei die zumindest eine Brennstoffzelleneinheit (2), der zumindest eine Reformer (5) und der zumindest eine Abgasbrenner (6) innerhalb einer Hotbox (8) des Brennstoffzellensystems (1a; 1b) angeordnet sind und die Heizvorrichtung (7) außerhalb der Hotbox (8) angeordnet ist. Ferner betrifft die Erfindung ein Verfahren zum Temperieren eines erfindungsgemäßen Brennstoffzellensystems (1a; 1b) sowie eine ...

Stack-assembled fuel cell system

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Brennstoffzellensystem (1), insbesondere ein SOFC-System, wobei das Brennstoffzellensystem (1) stapelartig aufgebaut ist, umfassend zumindest einen Brennstoffzellenstapel (2) mit einem Kathodenabschnitt (3) und einem Anodenabschnitt (4), zumindest eine Endplatte (5) und zumindest eine Gasverarbeitungsplatte (7), wobei der Brennstoffzellenstapel (2) zumindest bereichsweise über der Endplatte (5) angeordnet ist, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass zumindest eine Zwischenplatte (6) vorgesehen ist, wobei die Zwischenplatte (6) zumindest bereichsweise über der Gasverarbeitungsplatte (7) und die Endplatte (5) zumindest bereichsweise über der Zwischenplatte (6) angeordnet ist. Weiter betrifft die Erfindung eine Verwendung eines solchen Brennstoffzellensystems (1).

Fuel cell system

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft ein Brennstoffzellensystem umfassend eine Brennstoffversorgungseinheit, zumindest eine Hochtemperaturbrennstoffzelle mit einer Kathode und einer Anode und einem zwischen Kathode und Anode angeordneten Elektrolyt. Die Kathode weist eine Kathodenzuleitung und die Anode eine Anodenzuleitung auf, wobei die Anode über die Anodenzuleitung mit der Brennstoffversorgungseinheit strömungsverbunden ist. Weiterhin ist in der Anodenzuleitung eine Reformierungsvorrichtung angeordnet. Ferner ist eine Anodenabgasleitung zur Ableitung zumindest von Anodenabgas aus der Anode vorgesehen. Das Brennstoffzellensystem weist einen Abgaswärmetauscher zur Kühlung von Abgas und eine Rezirkulationsfördereinrichtung zum Rückführen von Anodenabgas zu der Reformierungsvorrichtung auf. Dabei sind die Rezirkulationsfördereinrichtung und der Abgaswärmetauscher zur jeweiligen Kühlung über einen gemeinsamen Kühlkreislauf fluidkommunizierend miteinander verbunden, der einen zentralen Kühlfluidspeicher ...

FUEL CELL MODULE SUPPORT

FESTOXIDBRENNSTOFFZELLENSYSTEME MIT WÄRMETAUSCHERN

GAS CELL SYSTEM WITH AIR COOLING ARRANGEMENT

TEMPERATURMANAGEMENT VON BRENNSTOFFZELLEN

Verfahren zur Regelung der Temperatur eines tubulären Brennstoffzellenverbundes durch die Trennung der Kühlfunktion von der Oxidationsfunktion des kathodenseitig zugeführten Gasstroms mithilfe von wenigstens einem im Gasstrom angebrachten Kühlelement, wobei das Kühlelement einen Teil der im Betrieb entstehenden Prozesswärme über Wärmestrahlung aufnimmt und dadurch die Temperatur im gesamten Strömungsbereich auf gleichem Niveau hält.

TEMPERATURMANAGEMENT VON BRENNSTOFFZELLEN

TEMPERATURREGELUNG VON BRENNSTOFFZELLENSYSTEMEN

HIGH TEMPERATURE GAS CELL WITH HEAT OF ADSORPTION PUMP

VORRICHTUNG ZUR WÄRMENUTZUNG BEI BRENNSTOFFZELLEN

The cell (1) has an anode exhaust gas line (2), and a cathode exhaust gas line (3) in connection with a hot water tank (4). The lines (2, 3) are directed into two separate heat exchangers (5, 6), respectively, where the exchangers are permeable into the tank. Exhaust gas of an additional heating device (7) is directed into a heat exchanger (8), which is permeable into the tank. The heating device and the line (2) are directed into the common heat exchanger (5). A reheater (9) is arranged in the line (2).

OPERATING PROCEDURE AT THE TIME OF THE LOAD INCREASE OF A GAS CELL SYSTEM

Measuring method and apparatus for determining the recirculation rate

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Messverfahren zur Bestimmung der Rezirkulationsrate (RR) im Anodengaskreislauf (50) eines Brennstoffzellensystems (1) mit zumindest einer Brennstoffzelle (10), wobei mit einer Anodengasrezirkulationsleitung (51) Anodengas (52) aus einem Anodenraum (13) der Brennstoffzelle (10) mit einer Gasfördereinrichtung (70) zugeführt wird sowie das Anodengas (52) in einem in der Anodengasrezirkulationsleitung (51) angeordneten Anodengaswärmeübertrager (60) thermostatisiert wird. Dazu werden die folgenden Verfahrensschritte durchgeführt: - Messen eines ersten Differenzdruckverlusts (LlP1_2) entlang eines ersten Leitungsabschnitts (101) der Anodengasrezirkulationsleitung (51), der im Betriebszustand des Brennstoffzellensystems (1) von einem ersten Massenstrom (M1_2) durchflossen wird; - Messen eines zweiten Differenzdruckverlusts (LlP3_4; LlP2_3) entlang eines zweiten Leitungsabschnitts (102; 103) der Anodengasrezirkulationsleitung (51), der im Betriebszustand von einem im ...

BRENNSTOFFZELLENSTROMVERSORGUNGSANLAGE

HIGH TEMPERATURE GAS CELL PLANT AND PROCEDURE FOR YOUR ENTERPRISE

BATTERY WITH MINIATURIZED SOFCBRENNSTOFFZELLEN

DEVICE AND PROCEDURE FOR THE USE OF THE WASTE HEAT OF AN AIR-COOLED GAS CELL BATTERY

GAS CELL PILE FOR ULTRAHIGH-EFFICIENT CURRENT SUPPLY SYSTEMS

PROCEDURE FOR THE SIMULTANEOUS PRODUCTION OF ELECTRICITY AND WARMTH FOR HEATING PURPOSES

THERMAL STEUERAPPARAT

PEM GAS CELL PILE WITH COOLING AGENT DISTRIBUTOR STRUCTURE

ЕINRIСНТUNG ZUR ЕRZЕUGUNG VОN ЕLЕКТRISСНЕМ SТRОМ UND WÄRМЕ МIТ МINDЕSТЕNS ЕINЕR ВRЕNNSТОFFZЕLLЕ

ЕINRIСНТUNG ZUR ЕRZЕUGUNG VОN ЕLЕКТRISСНЕМ SТRОМ UND WÄRМЕ МIТ МINDЕSТЕNS ЕINЕR ВRЕNNSТОFFZЕLLЕ

ЕINRIСНТUNG ZUR ЕRZЕUGUNG VОN ЕLЕКТRISСНЕМ SТRОМ UND WÄRМЕ МIТ МINDЕSТЕNS ЕINЕR ВRЕNNSТОFFZЕLLЕ

ЕINRIСНТUNG ZUR ЕRZЕUGUNG VОN ЕLЕКТRISСНЕМ SТRОМ UND WÄRМЕ МIТ МINDЕSТЕNS ЕINЕR ВRЕNNSТОFFZЕLLЕ

ЕINRIСНТUNG ZUR ЕRZЕUGUNG VОN ЕLЕКТRISСНЕМ SТRОМ UND WÄRМЕ МIТ МINDЕSТЕNS ЕINЕR ВRЕNNSТОFFZЕLLЕ

ЕINRIСНТUNG ZUR ЕRZЕUGUNG VОN ЕLЕКТRISСНЕМ SТRОМ UND WÄRМЕ МIТ МINDЕSТЕNS ЕINЕR ВRЕNNSТОFFZЕLLЕ

ЕINRIСНТUNG ZUR ЕRZЕUGUNG VОN ЕLЕКТRISСНЕМ SТRОМ UND WÄRМЕ МIТ МINDЕSТЕNS ЕINЕR ВRЕNNSТОFFZЕLLЕ

ЕINRIСНТUNG ZUR ЕRZЕUGUNG VОN ЕLЕКТRISСНЕМ SТRОМ UND WÄRМЕ МIТ МINDЕSТЕNS ЕINЕR ВRЕNNSТОFFZЕLLЕ

ЕINRIСНТUNG ZUR ЕRZЕUGUNG VОN ЕLЕКТRISСНЕМ SТRОМ UND WÄRМЕ МIТ МINDЕSТЕNS ЕINЕR ВRЕNNSТОFFZЕLLЕ

ЕINRIСНТUNG ZUR ЕRZЕUGUNG VОN ЕLЕКТRISСНЕМ SТRОМ UND WÄRМЕ МIТ МINDЕSТЕNS ЕINЕR ВRЕNNSТОFFZЕLLЕ

ЕINRIСНТUNG ZUR ЕRZЕUGUNG VОN ЕLЕКТRISСНЕМ SТRОМ UND WÄRМЕ МIТ МINDЕSТЕNS ЕINЕR ВRЕNNSТОFFZЕLLЕ

ЕINRIСНТUNG ZUR ЕRZЕUGUNG VОN ЕLЕКТRISСНЕМ SТRОМ UND WÄRМЕ МIТ МINDЕSТЕNS ЕINЕR ВRЕNNSТОFFZЕLLЕ

Purging device and method for improving cold-startability of fuel cell

The present invention provides a purging device and method for improving cold start performance of a fuel cell by direct heating, in which a gas mixture of hydrogen and air is supplied to a cathode of a fuel cell stack after shutdown of a fuel cell system to generate heat by a reaction of hydrogen and air, and the generated heat is used to increase the temperature of the fuel cell stack and, at the same time, remove water from the fuel cell stack.

Fuel cell system and operating method for fuel cell system

A fuel cell system includes: a fuel cell that generates power using an oxidant gas and a fuel gas; estimating means for estimating an electric resistance of the fuel cell in accordance with a voltage and a current of the fuel cell; and temperature controlling means for performing control to raise a temperature of the fuel cell when the electric resistance estimated by the estimating means exceeds a target electric resistance range and reduce the temperature of the fuel cell when the estimated electric resistance falls below the target electric resistance range.

High pressure gas supply system and fuel cell system

A fuel cell system ( 10 ) includes a pressure decrease valve ( 121 ) and a flow control valve ( 122 ) provided in a hydrogen supply line ( 120 P) that extends from a high pressure gas tank ( 110 ) to a fuel cell ( 100 ). A low temperature environment may cause the function of these devices to decrease. Therefore, if the gas temperature inside the high pressure gas tank ( 110 ) is higher than the temperature of this low temperature environment and is a temperature at which the decreased function can be recovered, high pressure gas inside the tank is made to flow through the hydrogen supply line ( 120 P) to expose the pressure decrease valve ( 121 ) and the like to the relatively high temperature gas before a start signal that starts the system is received.

Heating apparatus of fuel cell vehicle

A heating apparatus for a fuel cell vehicle is provided. The apparatus includes a fuel cell for generating electricity by a chemical reaction of oxygen and hydrogen, a cathode exhaust passage through which outside air introduced and supplied to the cathode electrode of the fuel cell so as to be used for the power generation reaction is discharged from the fuel cell, and an anode exhaust passage through which the hydrogen is discharged from the fuel cell. The heating apparatus further includes a branch passage which is branched from a branch point of the cathode exhaust passage and supplies the air discharged from the fuel cell to the vehicle compartment, and the anode exhaust passage is joined to the cathode exhaust passage on the downstream side of the branch point.

POWER GENERATION SYSTEM AND METHOD OF OPERATING THE SAME

A power generation system according to the present invention includes: a fuel cell system () including a fuel cell () and a case (); a ventilation fan (); a controller (); a combustion device (); and a discharge passage () formed to cause the case () and an exhaust port (A) of the combustion device () to communicate with each other and configured to discharge an exhaust gas from the fuel cell system () and an exhaust gas from the combustion device () to the atmosphere through an opening of the discharge passage (), the opening being open to the atmosphere, and the ventilation fan () is configured to discharge a gas in the case () to the discharge passage () to ventilate the inside of the case (), and the controller () causes the ventilation fan () to generate predetermined pressure or higher when the fuel cell system () is in a power generation stop state and the combustion device () is operating. 1. A power generation system comprising:a fuel cell system including a fuel cell configured to generate electric power using a fuel gas and an oxidizing gas and a case configured to house the fuel cell;a ventilator;a controller;a combustion device; anda discharge passage formed to cause the case and an exhaust port of the combustion device to communicate with each other and configured to discharge an exhaust gas from the fuel cell system and an exhaust gas from the combustion device to an atmosphere through an opening of the discharge passage, the opening being open to the atmosphere, wherein:the ventilator is configured to discharge a gas in the case to the discharge passage to ventilate an inside of the case; andthe controller causes the ventilator to operate when the fuel cell system is in a power generation stop state and the combustion device is operating.2. The power generation system according to claim 1 , wherein the controller causes the ventilator to operate in a case where the combustion device is activated when the fuel cell system is in the power generation ...

Method and System for Cooling Charge Air for a Fuel Cell, and Three-Fluid Charge Air Cooler

A method and system for cooling a pressurized charge air in the fuel cell system of a vehicle, using first and second charge air coolers. The system further includes a gas-to-gas humidifier and a fuel cell stack. According to the method and system, cathode exhaust gas passes through the gas-to-gas humidifier and is also used as the coolant gas in the first charge-air cooler. Therefore, the fuel cell cathode exhaust is heated and reduced in water content, reducing the tendency of water in the exhaust to condense and pool underneath the vehicle. Also provided is a three-fluid heat exchanger which integrates the first and second charge air coolers.

MULTI-STREAM HEAT EXCHANGER FOR A FUEL CELL SYSTEM

A multi-stream heat exchanger includes at least one air preheater section, at least one cathode recuperator section, and at least one anode recuperator section, wherein each section is a plate type heat exchanger having two major surfaces and a plurality of edge surfaces, a plurality of risers through at least some of the plates, and a plurality of flow paths located between plates. The cathode recuperator section is located adjacent to a first edge surface of the anode recuperator, and the air preheater section is located adjacent to a second edge surface of the anode recuperator section. 2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the fuel cell stack comprises a solid oxide fuel cell stack and the fuel inlet stream comprises a hydrocarbon fuel inlet stream.3. The system of claim 2 , further comprising a partial reformer located downstream of the anode recuperator.4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the solid oxide fuel cell stack comprises solid oxide fuel cells have internal reforming anode electrodes.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein:the anode tail gas oxidizer lacks a separate air inlet such that the cathode exhaust stream comprises a sole source of air for the anode tail gas oxidizer;the anode tail gas oxidizer lacks a fresh fuel inlet such that the first anode exhaust stream comprises an entire source of fuel for the anode tail gas.6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the splitter is located upstream of the air preheater such that the first anode exhaust stream does not pass through the air preheater.7. The system of claim 6 , wherein the splitter is located in a hot box containing the fuel cell stack claim 6 , such that the first anode exhaust stream is provided directly from the splitter into the anode tail gas oxidizer without passing through the air preheater or outside the hot box. This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/873,935, filed Sep. 1, 2010, which is based upon and claims priority to U.S. provisional application 61/272,227, filed ...

Circulation of Biphase Fuel Cell Coolant

Coolant velocity greater than zero everywhere within the coolant channels () of fuel cells () in a fuel cell stack () is assured by providing a flow of biphase fluid in the coolant channels, the flow being created by the outflow of a condenser (). Positive pressure is applied to the coolant inlet () of the coolant channels. Biphase flow from an oxidant exhaust condenser, which may be a vehicle radiator (), renders the coolant return flow more freeze tolerant. Using biphase flow within the coolant channels eliminates the need for a bubble-clearing liquid pump and reduces liquid inventory and other plumbing; this makes the fuel cell power plant more freeze tolerant. 1. A fuel cell power plant comprising:{'b': 37', '38', '78', '85', '66', '68', '75', '42', '47', '81', '53', '57, 'a stack () of fuel cells (), each fuel cell having coolant passageways (, ) connected between a coolant inlet () and a coolant outlet (), a fuel reactant gas flow field plate () connected between a fuel inlet () and a fuel outlet (), an oxidant reactant gas flow field plate () connected between an air inlet () and an air outlet (), at least one of said plates being porous and hydrophilic, and a membrane electrode assembly, including anode and cathode catalysts, disposed between said flow field plates;'}characterized by:{'b': '59', 'a condenser ();'}{'b': 66', '107', '108', '107, 'i': 'a', 'said coolant inlet () includes a gas/liquid separator (/) having a gas outlet (); and'}{'b': 57', '66, 'i': 'a', 'fluid communication between said air outlet (), through said condenser, to said coolant inlet ().'}2. A fuel cell power plant according to further characterized by:{'b': 59', '59', '120, 'i': 'a', 'said condenser () is a radiator () of a fuel cell-powered vehicle ().'}3. A fuel cell power plant according to comprising:{'b': '79', 'a controller (); and further characterized by{'b': 107', '108, 'said separator (/) having a gas outlet controlled by said controller.'}4. A fuel cell power plant ...

POWER GENERATION SYSTEM AND METHOD OF OPERATING THE SAME

A power generation system has a power generation unit (), a casing () accommodating the power generation unit (), a ventilator () configured to ventilate the interior of the casing (), and a first exhaust gas passage () configured to pass therethrough an exhaust gas from the ventilator () which is discharged out of the casing (). The first exhaust gas passage () merges with a second exhaust gas passage () connected to a duct () open to outside air before the second exhaust gas passage () is connected to the duct (), the second exhaust gas passage () being configured to pass a combustion exhaust gas from a combustion device () configured to generate heat to be supplied to a heat load. 1. A power generation system comprising: a power generation unit comprising a fuel cell; a casing accommodating said power generation unit; a ventilator configured to ventilate the interior of said casing; and a first exhaust gas passage configured to pass an exhaust gas from said ventilator which is discharged out of said casing , wherein said first exhaust gas passage merges with a second exhaust gas connected to a duct open to outside air before the second exhaust gas passage is connected to the duct , the second exhaust gas passage being configured to pass a combustion exhaust gas from a combustion device provided external to said casing and configured to generate heat to be supplied to a heat load.2. The power generation system according to claim 1 , further comprising a controller configured to allow said ventilator to operate when the combustion device is performing a combustion operation.3. The power generation system according to claim 2 , wherein said controller controls an operation of said ventilator so that the discharge pressure of said ventilator becomes higher than the pressure of the gas at the merging point.4. The power generation system according to claim 1 , wherein said ventilator operates so that the discharge pressure thereof becomes higher than the pressure of a ...

Fuel Cell Electricity Production Device and Associated Startup Method

An enclosure houses a fuel cell and defines an enclosed volume around the cell and is provided with openings selectively closed off by mobile shutters for regulate of air circulation between the enclosure interior and exterior, the cell being placed in the enclosure on a support floor, wherein the device comprises at least one selective heating member, separate from the cell, placed in the enclosure underneath the floor, and a volume situated under the floor housing the at least one heating member communicates with the volume of the enclosure situated above the floor via at least one passage. 1. A device for producing electricity comprising an enclosure housing within it a fuel cell , the enclosure defining an enclosed volume around the cell and being provided with openings that can be selectively closed off by mobile shutters in order to regulate circulation of air between an inside of the enclosure and an outside of the enclosure , the cell being placed in the enclosure on a support floor , characterized in that the device comprises at least one selective heating member , separate from the cell , placed in the enclosure underneath the floor , and in that a volume situated under the floor housing the at least one heating member communicates with a volume of the enclosure situated above the floor via at least one passage.2. The device of claim 1 , further comprising a lower fan placed under the floor claim 1 , the lower fan being associated with the heating member situated under the floor in order to selectively generate a forced circulation of air between the volume situated under the floor and the volume situated above the floor.3. The device of claim 2 , wherein:the cell comprises a built-in cooling system equipped with at least one cooling fan; andthe at least one cell cooling fan displaces the air above the floor in a first direction.4. The device of claim 3 , wherein the lower fan placed under the floor is oriented in such a way as to displace the air in a ...

Warming feature for aircraft fuel cells

A system and method for warming a fuel cell on an aircraft, the system includes at least one fuel cell. The fuel cell includes an anode and a cathode for creating thermal and electrical energy. A temperature sensor measures a first temperature of the fuel cell. A control unit is coupled to the temperature sensor. The control unit increases the first temperature to a second temperature in response to the first temperature being at least equal to a selected temperature threshold. Increasing of the first temperature is indicative of the control unit operating in a warming mode. The second temperature is higher than the selected temperature threshold.

ENHANCEMENT OF IN SITU RADIATION FOR FACILITATED THERMAL MANAGEMENT OF HIGH TEMPERATURE FUEL CELLS

The various embodiments described herein provide an alternative solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) design that enhances radiation heat transfer. The premise is to facilitate view factor radiation as an additional means of thermal equilibration along and between the high temperature fuel cells, such that the cells become more tolerant to colder inlet oxidant streams or direct internal reformation, as well as have enhanced proximity of temperatures between one another. Previously threatening “cold spots” due to convective cooling and endothermic reformation effects could be minimized or avoided via thermal radiation that ultimately originates from hotter cell locations. Likewise, previously threatening “temperature glides” throughout the direction of cell stacking are mitigated by the cells having more (reflective) thermal radiation between themselves. 1. A solid oxide fuel cell , comprising:at least one flow channel extending a length of the fuel cell, the channel having a length to hydraulic diameter ratio not exceeding 20.2. The solid oxide fuel cell of claim 1 , wherein the at least one flow channel has a length to hydraulic diameter ratio ranging from 3 to 10.3. A solid oxide fuel cell claim 1 , comprising:at least one flow channel extending a length of the fuel cell, the at least one flow channel having a length to hydraulic diameter ratio not exceeding 20; anda reflective surface coating applied to at least a portion of an interior of the at least one flow channel.4. The solid oxide fuel cell of claim 3 , wherein the at least one flow channel has a length to hydraulic diameter ratio ranging from 3 to 10.5. The solid oxide fuel cell of claim 3 , wherein the reflective surface coating is a polished metal.6. The solid oxide fuel cell of claim 5 , wherein the polished metal is selected from the group consisting of chrome claim 5 , nickel claim 5 , zinc claim 5 , and silver.7. The solid oxide fuel cell of claim 3 , wherein the reflective surface coating is pyrogel.8. The ...

MOLTEN CARBONATE DIRECT CARBON FUEL CELL SYSTEMS AND METHODS

There is described a direct carbon fuel cell system. The system includes fuel cells, each fuel cell having a porous fuel cell anode and a fuel cell cathode. The system further includes a molten carbonate electrolyte and a fuel supply apparatus for flowing a fuel slurry having carbon particles and a carbon carrier fluid to the fuel cell anodes in parallel. The carbon carrier fluid has a same composition as the molten carbonate electrolyte. An oxidant supply apparatus flows an oxygen-containing stream to the fuel cell cathodes in parallel. An electrolyte circulation apparatus circulates the molten carbonate electrolyte in contact with each of the fuel cells. During operation of the direct carbon fuel cell system to generate electric power, carbon is oxidized at the fuel cell anodes to produce carbon dioxide, and at the fuel cell cathodes oxygen and carbon dioxide react to produce carbonate ions. 1. A direct carbon fuel cell system comprising:a plurality of fuel cells, each fuel cell comprising a porous fuel cell anode and a fuel cell cathode;a molten carbonate electrolyte;a fuel supply apparatus for flowing a fuel slurry comprising carbon particles and a carbon carrier fluid to the fuel cell anodes in parallel, wherein the carbon carrier fluid has a same composition as the molten carbonate electrolyte;an oxidant supply apparatus for flowing an oxygen-containing stream to the fuel cell cathodes in parallel; andan electrolyte circulation apparatus for circulating the molten carbonate electrolyte in contact with each of the plurality of fuel cells,wherein, during operation of the direct carbon fuel cell system to generate electric power, carbon is oxidized at the fuel cell anodes to produce carbon dioxide, and at the fuel cell cathodes oxygen and carbon dioxide react to produce carbonate ions,wherein each of the fuel cells further comprises an electrolyte flow field chamber interposed between the fuel cell anode and the fuel cell cathode, and the fuel supply apparatus is ...

Air intake device for fuel cell vehicle

Provided is a cooling structure for vehicle electrical components that is capable of solving problems due to water contained in intake air. Air used in an electricity generation reaction and air necessary for self-cooling is supplied to a fuel cell stack ( 11 ) via an intake duct ( 2 ). Dust and chemical substances in the air are removed by a dust/chemical substance filter ( 3 ) provided on the fuel cell stack ( 11 ) side within the intake duct ( 2 ). Furthermore, air and water are primarily separated by a water filter ( 4 ) provided in the intake duct ( 2 ) upstream by a prescribed distance in the air flow direction from the dust/chemical substance filter ( 3 ). Therefore, water in the intake air does not reach the dust/chemical substance filter ( 3 ) and the fuel cell stack ( 11 ), and various problems due to water contained in the intake air can be solved.

SOFC STACK WITH INTEGRATED HEATER

An integrated heater for a Solid Oxide Fuel System is integrated directly in the SOFC stack, and can operate and heat the stack independently of the process. 1. A solid oxide fuel cell system comprising a planar solid oxide fuel cell stack and a heating unit for continuous operation when the solid oxide fuel cell stack is in operation or in stand-by mode , wherein said heating unit is an integrated part of the solid oxide fuel cell system.2. A solid oxide fuel cell system according to claim 1 , wherein the operation temperature of said heating unit is at least the operation temperature of the cell stack minus 50° C. claim 1 , preferably at least the operation temperature of the cell stack.3. A solid oxide fuel cell system according to claim 1 , wherein said heating unit has a ratio between heat transferring loss from surfaces and useful heat transferring to the cell stack of less than 200% claim 1 , preferably less than 30% claim 1 , preferably less than 2%.4. A solid oxide fuel cell system according to claim 1 , wherein said heating unit is directly connected to one end plate of the cell stack and wherein the outer dimensions of the connected part of the heating unit corresponds to the outer planar dimensions of said end plate of the cell stack.5. A solid oxide fuel cell system according to claim 1 , wherein said heating unit is arranged at one end of the cell stack and the heating unit is connected to said one end of the cell stack.6. A solid oxide fuel cell system according to claim 1 , wherein the heating unit is arranged between the ends of two cell stacks in a sandwich arrangement.7. A solid oxide fuel cell system according to claim 6 , wherein a plurality claim 6 , preferably two heating units are arranged between the ends of two cell stacks in a sandwich arrangement.8. A solid oxide fuel cell system according to claim 1 , wherein the heating unit comprises an electrical resistance element.9. A solid oxide fuel cell system according to claim 8 , wherein the ...

Power generation systems and methods utilizing cascaded fuel cells

A power generation system including a first fuel cell configured to generate a first anode tail gas stream is presented. The system includes at least one fuel reformer configured to receive the first anode tail gas stream, mix the first anode tail gas stream with a reformer fuel stream to form a reformed stream; a splitting mechanism to split the reformed stream into a first portion and a second portion; and a fuel path configured to circulate the first portion to an anode inlet of the first fuel cell, such that the first fuel cell is configured to generate a first electric power, at least in part, by using the first portion as a fuel. The system includes a second fuel cell configured to receive the second portion, and to generate a second electric power, at least in part, by using the second portion as a fuel.

FUEL CELL POWER SYSTEM FOR AN UNMANNED SURFACE VEHICLE

A power system for an unmanned surface vehicle is disclosed. In one embodiment, the power system includes a fuel cell, a fuel storage, and an air management system. The fuel cell includes a fuel cell stack. The fuel cell stack includes a fuel inlet, an air inlet, and an exhaust outlet. The fuel storage includes at least one fuel-storage module fluidly connected to the fuel inlet of the fuel cell stack. The fuel-storage module is a source of energy for the fuel cell. The air management system is fluidly connected to the air inlet and the exhaust outlet of the fuel cell. An air snorkel is part of the air management system and provides air to operate the fuel cell while the unmanned surface vehicle is deployed on a surface of a body of water. The air snorkel includes an intake and an exhaust. 1101210. A power system () for an unmanned surface vehicle () , the power system () comprising:{'b': 20', '80', '80', '42', '60', '50, 'a fuel cell () including a fuel cell stack (), wherein the fuel cell stack () includes a fuel inlet (), an air inlet (), and an exhaust outlet ();'}{'b': 34', '40', '42', '80', '40', '20, 'a fuel storage () including at least one fuel-storage module () fluidly connected to the fuel inlet () of the fuel cell stack (), wherein the fuel-storage module () is a source of is a source of energy for the fuel cell ();'}{'b': 30', '60', '50', '20, 'an air management system () fluidly connected to the air inlet () and the exhaust outlet () of the fuel cell (); and'}{'b': 76', '30', '20', '12', '76, 'claim-text': [{'b': 70', '80, 'an air intake () for receiving ambient air supplied to the fuel cell stack (); and'}, {'b': 72', '80, 'an exhaust () for expelling exhausted air and exhausted water-vapor created by the fuel cell stack ().'}], 'an air snorkel () that is part of the air management system () and provides air to operate the fuel cell () while the unmanned surface vehicle () is deployed within a body of water, wherein the air snorkel () ...

FUEL CELL

A fuel cell including a plurality of elementary modules stacked on each other, at least one of the elementary modules including an oxidation unit generating electrons by oxidation of a fuel with an oxidant, an anode block including a fuel transporter support, for transporting an anode feed flow containing the fuel to an anode chamber, onto which is attached an anode electron collector, a cathode block including an oxidant transporter support, for transporting a cathode feed flow containing the oxidant to a cathode chamber, onto which is attached a cathode electron collector, the elementary module defining the anode chamber, respectively, the cathode chamber between the oxidation unit and the fuel transporter support, respectively, the oxidant transporter support, and being such that, prior to the assembly of the elementary module in said plurality, the anode block, respectively, the cathode block and the oxidation unit are attached to each other. 1. A fuel cell including a plurality of elementary modules stacked on each other in a stacking direction , an oxidation unit configured to generate electrons by means of the oxidation of a fuel with an oxidant the oxidation unit including an anode and a cathode sandwiching an electrolytic membrane,', 'an anode block including a fuel transporter support suitable for transporting an anode feed flow containing the fuel to an anode chamber, and an anode electron collector attached to the fuel transporter support,', 'a cathode block including an oxidant transporter support suitable for transporting a cathode feed flow containing the oxidant to a cathode chamber, and a cathode electron collector attached to the oxidant transporter support,', 'the at least one elementary module being configured so as to define the anode chamber, respectively, the cathode chamber, between the oxidation unit and the fuel transporter support, respectively, the oxidant transporter support,', 'the at least one elementary module being such that, prior ...

Thermal Conditioning Fluids For An Underwater Cryogenic Storage Vessel

Technologies are described herein for conditioning fluids stored in an underwater cryogenic storage vessel designed for use in a fuel system of an underwater vehicle. According to one aspect of the disclosure, a fuel system includes a fuel cell and a storage vessel, which stores a first fluid that is supplied to the fuel cell and a second fluid that is produced by the fuel cell. The fuel system also includes a thermal conditioning module that receives the first fluid from the storage vessel and receives the second fluid from the fuel cell. The first fluid stored in the storage vessel is conditioned by absorbing heat from the second fluid, such that the fuel cell receives the conditioned first fluid. The second fluid received from the fuel cell is in gaseous state and is converted to a liquid. The liquid second fluid is stored in the storage vessel. 1. A fuel system , comprising:a fuel cell;a storage vessel configured to store a first fluid to be supplied to the fuel cell and a second fluid supplied by the fuel cell, wherein the first fluid comprises a liquid first fluid and a gaseous first fluid and wherein the second fluid comprises a liquid second fluid and a gaseous second fluid; anda thermal conditioning module, the thermal conditioning module configured toreceive the gaseous first fluid from the storage vessel,receive the gaseous second fluid from the fuel cell,condition the gaseous first fluid stored in the storage vessel by absorbing heat from the gaseous second fluid, such that the fuel cell receives the gaseous first fluid from the thermal conditioning module, andconvert the gaseous second fluid received from the fuel cell to the liquid second fluid and storing the liquid second fluid in the storage vessel.2. The fuel system of claim 1 , wherein the thermal conditioning module comprises a first heat exchanger configured to receive the gaseous first fluid from the storage vessel and further configured to liquefy the gaseous second fluid into the liquid ...

Integrated recirculating fuel cell system

A fuel cell containment system wherein fan exhaust is ducted in a manner that directs the flow of air into or from hydrogen storage system or other fuel cell component housing, creating an active ventilation of the storage system. During standby operations, cooling air supporting the control electronics may be ducted into the hydrogen storage system likewise creating an active ventilation of the hydrogen storage system.

Electrolyte-circulating battery, heat exchanger, and pipe

Provided are an electrolyte-circulating battery in which electrolytes are unlikely to be oxidized and are easily cooled, a heat exchanger in which a corrosive liquid flowing through the inside thereof is unlikely to be oxidized and is easily cooled, and a pipe in which a corrosive liquid flowing through the inside thereof is unlikely to be oxelectrolyte-circulating batteryidized, and which is suitable for cooling the corrosive liquid. The electrolyte-circulating battery includes a battery cell and a circulation passage configured to circulate an electrolyte into the battery cell. The circulation passage includes a complex duct, and the complex duct includes a tubular main body composed of a resin and an oxygen block layer disposed on a periphery of the main body and composed of an organic material that has a lower oxygen transmission rate than the main body.

Fuel cell

A solid oxide fuel cell includes a cell stack, a reformed gas introduction path introducing a reformed gas into the cell stack, an oxidizing agent gas introduction path introducing an oxidizing agent gas into the cell stack, and a cooling gas introduction path introducing a cooling gas into the oxidizing agent gas introduction path. A heat-absorption part absorbing heat is provided in a periphery of the cell stack, and the cooling gas introduction path is connected with the oxidizing agent gas introduction path through the heat-absorption part.

Heat Exchanger and Fuel Cell System

A heat exchanger for a fuel cell system, in particular in a vehicle, includes a gas section for at least one gas and one cooling fluid section for cooling the at least one gas, a housing, and a cooler matrix which is arranged in the housing and in which the cooling fluid section is configured, where the cooler matrix forms a multiplicity of cavities which produce the gas section, at least one gas inlet on the housing, at least one partition in the cooler matrix for dividing the gas section into at least two flows, with the result that the two flows can be cooled by way of the same cooling fluid section, and at least two gas outlets on the housing, where each flow opens into a dedicated gas outlet. 1. A fuel cell system for a vehicle , comprising:a fuel cell;a compressor;an air path from the compressor to a cathode side of the fuel cell; anda heat exchanger disposed in the air path, wherein the heat exchanger includes a housing, a cooler matrix disposed in the housing, and a partition disposed in the cooler matrix;wherein a fuel cell air channel is partitioned off in the cooler matrix by the partition and wherein air from the fuel cell air channel is suppliable to the cathode side of the fuel cell;wherein a compressor cooling air channel is partitioned off in the cooler matrix by the partition and wherein air from the compressor cooling air channel is suppliable to the compressor.2. The fuel cell system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein:a prechamber is formed in the housing upstream of the cooler matrix;the fuel cell air channel is partitioned off from the compressor cooling air channel within the prechamber; anda nozzle is disposed in the prechamber for injecting water into the fuel cell air channel.3. The fuel cell system as claimed in further comprising an exhaust gas path for exhaust gas from the fuel cell claim 1 , wherein an exhaust gas channel through which the exhaust gas path runs is partitioned off in the cooler matrix.4. The fuel cell system as claimed in ...

HEAT EXCHANGER COOLING DEVICE

An emission part of a cooling device has a plurality of emission holes. In the emission part, a separator urged by coil springs is disposed, and needles respectively corresponding to the emission holes are provided on the separator. As the separator is moved to a closing position, leading end portions of the needles are inserted into the emission holes to close the emission holes. Thus, when emission of water through the emission holes is stopped in the emission part, water inside the emission holes is pushed out and removed by the leading end portions of the needles inserted into the emission holes. This can reduce the likelihood of clogging of the emission holes due to water that cools a radiator by its latent heat of evaporation. 1a heat exchanger in which a refrigerant for cooling an object-to-be-cooled is cooled by exchanging heat with air introduced into the heat exchanger;an ejection part that has a hollow inside into which a liquid that cools the heat exchanger by latent heat of evaporation is supplied by a supply part, and that has an ejection hole for ejecting the supplied liquid formed in a surface facing the heat exchanger so as to extend through the surface;a closing member that is movable between a closing position in which the closing member is inserted into the ejection hole to close the ejection hole, and a non-closing position in which the closing member has receded from the ejection hole to allow the liquid to be ejected through the ejection hole; anda moving part that moves the closing member to the non-closing position when the liquid is supplied to the ejection part, and moves the closing member to the closing position when supply of the liquid to the ejection part is stopped.. A heat exchanger cooling device comprising: This application claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-129446 filed on Jul. 30, 2020, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.The disclosure relates to a heat exchanger cooling device that is provided ...

Method and device for homogenizing the temperature distribution of bodies which have fluidic temperature control

A device and a method for controlling the temperature of a unit to be controlled in its temperature, including a unit to be heated or cooled, a temperature-control circuit having a recirculatable, heat-transferring medium, the flow direction of the medium through the temperature-control circuit being reversed following at least one predefined time interval or according to a control based on a temperature of the unit to be controlled in its temperature, characterized by the fact that the intake temperature of the recirculatable, heat-transferring medium is higher than the setpoint temperature of the unit to be controlled in its temperature, as long as the actual temperature of the unit requiring temperature control is lower than its setpoint temperature, and the intake temperature of the recirculatable, heat-transferring medium is lower than the setpoint temperature of the unit to be controlled in its temperature, if the actual temperature of the unit to be controlled in its temperature exceeds its setpoint temperature.

Fuel cell and fuel cell system for an aircraft

A fuel cell to provide a higher power density. The fuel cell can be produced by 3D printing in ceramic and has an improved power density by virtue of its spiral shape. In order to better extract the energy generated by the fuel cell, an interconnector sheet can be fastened positively to fastening knobs of the fuel cell by holding eyes. In addition, the interconnector sheet can be fixed by glass solder.

THERMO-ELECTROCHEMICAL CONVERTOR WITH INTEGRATED ENERGY STORAGE

An electrochemical direct heat to electricity converter includes a primary thermal energy source; a working fluid; an electrochemical cell comprising at least one membrane electrode assembly including a first porous electrode, a second porous electrode and at least one membrane, wherein the at least one membrane is sandwiched between the first and second porous electrodes and is a conductor of ions of the working fluid; an energy storage reservoir; and an external load. The electrochemical cell operates on heat to produce electricity. When thermal energy available from the primary thermal energy source is greater than necessary to meet demands of the external load, excess energy is stored in the energy storage reservoir, and when the thermal energy available from the primary thermal energy source is insufficient to meet the demands of the external load, at least a portion of the excess energy stored in the energy storage reservoir is used to supply power to the external load. 1. An electrochemical direct heat to electricity converter comprising:a working fluid;a first membrane electrode assembly including a high pressure porous electrode, a low pressure porous electrode and at least one membrane, wherein the at least one membrane is sandwiched between the first and second porous electrodes and is a conductor of ions of the working fluid;a first conduit containing the working fluid at a first pressure and a second conduit containing the working fluid at a second pressure which is lower than the first pressure, the first conduit being a high pressure conduit coupled to the high pressure porous electrode and the second conduit being a low pressure conduit coupled to the low pressure porous electrode;a high pressure working fluid storage reservoir coupled to the high pressure conduit;a low pressure working fluid storage reservoir coupled to the low pressure conduit; anda controller;wherein the electrochemical converter produces electrical energy when the working fluid ...

ELECTROCHEMICAL CELL AND CELL STACK DEVICE

A fuel cell includes a porous support substrate and a power generation element portion. The support substrate includes a first end portion that is linked to a gas supply chamber and a gas collection portion, and a second end portion that is located opposite to the first end portion. The support substrate includes a first gas channel and a second gas channel. The first gas channel extends from the first end portion toward the second end portion. The first gas channel is connected to the gas supply chamber. The second gas channel is connected to the first gas channel on the second end portion side. The second gas channel extends from the second end portion toward the first end portion. The second gas channel is connected to the gas collection chamber. The support substrate is configured such that gas flows in the support substrate and moves between the first gas channel and the second gas channel, in a portion of the support substrate that is farther toward the first end portion side than the power generation element portion is. 1. An electrochemical cell that is configured to be linked to a gas supply portion and a gas collection portion , the electrochemical cell comprising:a flat porous support substrate including a first end portion and a second end portion, the first end portion being configured to be linked to the gas supply portion and the gas collection portion, the second end portion being located opposite to the first end portion; anda power generation element portion disposed on a main surface of the support substrate, at least one first gas channel extending from the first end portion toward the second end portion, the first gas channel being configured to be connected to the gas supply portion, and', 'at least one second gas channel connected to the first gas channel on the second end portion side, the second gas channel extending from the second end portion toward the first end portion, the second gas channel being configured to be connected to the gas ...

INTEGRATED FUEL CELL SYSTEMS

An integrated fuel cell system includes fuel cells, fuel heat exchangers, air heat exchangers, and tail gas oxidizers. The tail gas oxidizers oxidize a (second) portion of fuel received from the fuel cells with effluent that is output from the fuel cells. Fuel cell stacks are fluidly coupled with the fuel heat exchangers and the tail gas oxidizers such that the fuel that is output from the fuel cells is split into a first portion that is directed back into the fuel heat exchangers and a second portion that is directed into the tail gas oxidizers.

Fuel cell system and control method thereof

A fuel cell system and a control method thereof are disclosed. The system includes a fuel cell stack having an anode and a cathode, an anode recirculation loop including the anode, a fuel supply device for providing a fuel gas via a fuel feed path, an air supply device for providing air to the cathode, an anode blower and a switching element. The loop has a first path and a second path, and the anode is arranged in the second path. During normal operation of the system, the fuel feed path and the first path are combined to form the second path, and the second path is split into the first path and a fuel exhaust path. The anode blower is configured for driving circulation through the loop. The switching element is located in at least one of the first path and the combining point and is configured to force the fuel gas to flow through the second path to the fuel exhaust path in the event of failure of the anode blower.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SUPPLYING PASSIVELY FILTERED RAM AIR TO A HYDROGEN FUEL CELL OF A UAV

An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) has an air-cooled fuel cell, an air channel comprising a forward facing opening for receiving ram air and connected to the air-cooled fuel cell, and a passive ram air filtration system (PRAFS) configured to filter particulate matter from ram air received into the air channel via the opening. 1. An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) , comprising:an air-cooled fuel cell;an air channel comprising a forward facing opening for receiving ram air and connected to the air-cooled fuel cell; anda passive ram air filtration system (PRAFS) configured to filter particulate matter from ram air received into the air channel via the opening.2. The UAV of claim 1 , wherein the PRAFS comprises an entrainment air channel in fluid communication with the air channel that comprises an entrainment air exit in communication with the environment external to the UAV.3. The UAV of claim 2 , wherein the entrainment air channel comprises a shape profile configured to increase a likelihood that particulate matter of ram air entering the air channel will enter the entrainment air channel as opposed to being introduced to the air-cooled fuel cell.4. The UAV of claim 3 , wherein the PRAFS further comprises an electrostatic filter disposed between the forward facing opening of the air channel and the air-cooled fuel cell.5. The UAV of claim 4 , wherein the electrostatic filter is disposed within the air channel.6. The UAV of claim 1 , wherein the air-cooled fuel cell and the PRAFS are disposed within a thrust module of the UAV.7. The UAV of claim 1 , wherein the PRAFS comprises an electrostatic air filter disposed between the forward facing opening and the air-cooled fuel cell.8. A thrust module claim 1 , comprising:a nacelle configured for mechanical connection to an anchoring location of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV);an electric motor coupled to the nacelle, the electric motor being configured to convert electrical energy into rotational energy imparted to a shaft ...

BATTERY OF FUEL CELLS

Battery of fuel cells comprises at least one stack of interconnected flat two-sided fuel cells arranged inside the thermally insulated chamber. Each two-sided cell is made in a form of a ceramic plate with individual connections for the supply and drainage of fluids and electric power output, and is equipped with the central ceramic anode structure with high electrical conductivity which, on both sides, has channels formed for distribution of fuel and operating channels covered with operating anode layers, which are then covered with solid electrolyte layers, cathode layers and cathode conductive layers. Each two-sided cell (DFC) makes mechanical contact with the neighboring two-sided cells (DFC) with flexible separators which enable transfer of the fuel and catalytic combustion products. Furthermore, inside the thermally insulated chamber, temperature-controlling elements are located, such as heaters, heat absorbers and devices forcing air circulation. 2. The battery of claim 1 , wherein said temperature-controlling element is one or more heaters claim 1 , one or more heat absorbers claim 1 , or one or more devices forcing air circulation.3. The battery of claim 1 , wherein said central ceramic anode structure comprises embedded metallic conductive structures.4. The battery of claim 3 , wherein said metallic conductive structures embedded are based on nickel.5. The battery of claim 1 , wherein a pressure of said two-sided cells against said flexible separators is ensured by clamping bars.6. The battery of claim 1 , wherein said clamping bars have outer surfaces coated with a ceramic insulating material.7. The battery of claim 1 , wherein a pressure connection of said two-sided cells with said flexible separators is sealed with sealing pads.8. The battery of claim 7 , wherein said sealing pads are mica.9. The battery of claim 2 , wherein said heaters are arranged in parallel to said two-sided cell stacks and are located perpendicularly to a direction in which a ...

Fuel Cell Assembly

A fuel cell assembly comprising an enclosure having a fuel cell stack mounted therein, and an inlet opening into the enclosure. The fuel cell stack having an inlet face for receiving coolant/oxidant fluid. The fuel cell assembly further comprises a delivery gallery extending from the inlet in the enclosure to the inlet face of the fuel cell stack, the delivery gallery having a first region and a second region separated by an aperture. The delivery gallery and aperture are configured such that, in use, coolant/oxidant fluid within the first region of the delivery gallery is turbulent, and coolant/oxidant fluid within the second region of the delivery gallery has a generally uniform pressure. 1. A fuel cell assembly comprising:an enclosure having a fuel cell stack mounted therein,an inlet opening into the enclosure,the fuel cell stack having an inlet face for receiving coolant/oxidant fluid,a delivery gallery extending from the inlet in the enclosure to the inlet face of the fuel cell stack,the delivery gallery having a first region and a second region separated by an aperture,wherein the delivery gallery and aperture are configured such that, in use, coolant/oxidant fluid within the first region of the delivery gallery is turbulent, and coolant/oxidant fluid within the second region of the delivery gallery has a generally uniform pressure.2. The fuel cell assembly of in which the aperture defines a restriction to flow of the coolant/oxidant between the first and second regions of the delivery gallery.3. The fuel cell assembly of in which the aperture represents a reduction in cross-sectional area in the flow path of the coolant/oxidant flow between the first and second regions of the delivery gallery.4. The fuel cell assembly of in which the aperture is defined claim 1 , at least in part claim 1 , by a bottom end face of the fuel cell stack.5. The fuel cell assembly of in which the aperture is defined claim 4 , at least in part claim 4 , by a protrusion extending ...

Fuel Cell Assembly

A fuel cell assembly comprising an enclosure having a fuel cell stack mounted therein. The fuel cell stack has an inlet face for receiving coolant/oxidant fluid and an outlet face for expelling said coolant/oxidant fluid. The fuel cell stack further includes a pair of end faces extending transversely between the inlet face and outlet face. The enclosure defines a flow path for the coolant/oxidant fluid that is configured to guide the coolant/oxidant fluid to the inlet face, from the outlet face, and over at least one of the end faces.

METHOD OF CONTROLLING FUEL CELL SYSTEM

A method of controlling a fuel cell system includes supplying a fuel gas from a fuel-gas storage container to a fuel cell via a drive valve provided in a fuel-gas path. A first pressure is detected in the fuel-gas path between a first decompression mechanism and a second decompression mechanism. A second pressure is detected in the fuel-gas path between the second decompression mechanism and the drive valve. An on-off valve is opened. The on-off valve is provided in a bypass path. The first pressure and the second pressure are compared after the on-off valve has been opened. The fuel cell system is controlled to decrease electric power generated by the fuel cell or to stop generating electric power in the fuel cell when the first pressure is not substantially equal to the second pressure. 1. A method of controlling a fuel cell system that includes a fuel cell , comprising:supplying an oxidant gas to a cathode electrode of the fuel cell;supplying a fuel gas from a fuel-gas storage container to an anode electrode of the fuel cell via a drive valve provided in a fuel-gas path to generate electric power in the fuel cell via an electrochemical reaction between the fuel gas and the oxidant gas;detecting a first pressure in the fuel-gas path between a first decompression mechanism and a second decompression mechanism, the first decompression mechanism being provided in the fuel-gas path between the drive valve and the fuel-gas storage container, the second decompression mechanism being provided in the fuel-gas path between the first decompression mechanism and the drive valve;detecting a second pressure in the fuel-gas path between the second decompression mechanism and the drive valve;opening an on-off valve provided in a bypass path that bypasses the second decompression mechanism;comparing the first pressure and the second pressure after the on-off valve has been opened; andcontrolling the fuel cell system to decrease electric power generated by the fuel cell or to stop ...

METHOD OF CONTROLLING FUEL CELL SYSTEM

A method of controlling a fuel cell system includes circulating a coolant through a fuel cell circulation passage in which a fuel cell and a gas liquid separator are provided. A valve is controlled selectively to connect or disconnect the fuel cell circulation passage and an air conditioning equipment circulation passage in which an air conditioning mechanism is provided. The valve is maintained to connect the fuel cell circulation passage and the air conditioning equipment circulation passage to circulate the coolant through the air conditioning equipment circulation passage when it is determined that the coolant includes air bubbles more than or equal to the threshold amount, when the valve connects the fuel cell circulation passage and the air conditioning equipment circulation passage, and when a temperature of the fuel cell is higher than or equal to a threshold temperature even if the air conditioning mechanism stops. 1. A method of controlling a fuel cell system including a fuel cell , comprising:circulating a coolant through a fuel cell circulation passage in which the fuel cell and a gas liquid separator are provided;controlling a valve selectively to connect or disconnect the fuel cell circulation passage and an air conditioning equipment circulation passage in which an air conditioning mechanism is provided;determining whether the coolant includes air bubbles more than or equal to a threshold amount; andmaintaining the valve to connect the fuel cell circulation passage and the air conditioning equipment circulation passage to circulate the coolant through the air conditioning equipment circulation passage when it is determined that the coolant includes air bubbles more than or equal to the threshold amount, when the valve connects the fuel cell circulation passage and the air conditioning equipment circulation passage, and when a temperature of the fuel cell is higher than or equal to a threshold temperature even if the air conditioning mechanism stops.2. ...

Fuel cell device

A fuel cell includes a fuel cell, auxiliaries, a storage battery, an auxiliary power switching unit and a controlling device. The fuel cell is connected to a system power supply. The auxiliaries are coupled to the fuel cell. The auxiliary power switching unit switches power supplies to at least one of the auxiliaries from the storage battery. When the fuel cell device that is not operating starts operation at a time of power failure of the system power supply, the controlling device determines whether or not each of the auxiliaries need power for startup of the fuel cell and prompts the auxiliary power switching unit to supply the power from the storage battery to one or more auxiliaries for which the controlling device has determined a power demand for the startup.

POWER CONVERSION SYSTEM

Provided is a power conversion system having a solid-oxide fuel cell capable of stably generating electricity from hydrogen generated by an organic hydride. The power conversion system includes a solid-oxide fuel cell, a reactor for producing hydrogen and a dehydrogenation product from an organic hydride by dehydrogenation reaction, and a heat engine for generating motive power. The power conversion system separates the hydrogen produced by the reactor, and supplies the hydrogen as fuel to the solid-oxide fuel cell. Exhaust heat of the heat engine is supplied to both the solid-oxide fuel cell and the reactor. 1. A power conversion system , comprising:a solid-oxide fuel cell;a reactor for producing hydrogen and a dehydrogenation product from an organic hydride by dehydrogenation reaction; anda heat engine for generating motive power,the power conversion system separating the hydrogen produced by the reactor and supplying the hydrogen as fuel to the solid-oxide fuel cell,wherein exhaust heat of the heat engine is supplied to both the solid-oxide fuel cell and the reactor.2. The power conversion system according to claim 1 ,wherein the exhaust heat of the heat engine is supplied to both the solid-oxide fuel cell and the reactor via pipes for transferring out exhaust gas of the heat engine.3. The power conversion system according to claim 1 ,wherein the solid-oxide fuel cell and the reactor are connected via a pipe,wherein off-gas of the solid-oxide fuel cell is supplied to the reactor via the pipe,and wherein the pipe is provided with a first flow rate adjusting device for adjusting a flow rate of the off-gas.4. The power conversion system according to claim 2 ,wherein the pipe for transferring out the exhaust gas of the heat engine extends such as to branch toward the solid-oxide fuel cell and the reactor,and wherein the branch portion of the pipe is provided with a second flow rate adjusting device for adjusting flow rates, of the exhaust gas, divided respectively ...

HUMIDIFIER, FUEL CELL DEVICE WITH A HUMIDIFIER AND MOTOR VEHICLE WITH A FUEL CELL DEVICE COMPRISING A HUMIDIFIER

A humidifier comprises at least one humidifier module, which has a membrane permeable to water vapor and respectively on both sides of the membrane, a flow field frame with at least two walls defining a flow channel. A thermal bridge with an increased thermal conductivity compared to the membrane protrudes through the membrane. A fuel cell device comprises such a humidifier and a motor vehicle includes a fuel cell device comprising such a humidifier. 1. A humidifier , comprising:{'claim-text': ['a membrane permeable to water vapor;', 'a first flow field frame with at least two walls defining a first flow channel on a first side of the membrane;', 'a second flow field frame with at least two walls defining a second flow channel on a second side of the membrane opposite the first side; and', 'a thermal bridge with a higher thermal conductivity than the membrane which protrudes through the membrane,'], '#text': 'at least one humidifier module that comprises:'}wherein the thermal bridge is sealed off from the membrane;wherein the thermal bridge includes a pin that protrudes through the membrane from the first side of the membrane to a pin seat in the second flow field frame, andwherein the pin is formed as one piece with the walls and/or the pin seat is arranged in the walls.2. The humidifier according to claim 1 , wherein the humidifier includes a plurality of humidifier modules collectively having a plurality of membranes separated by flow field frames claim 1 , and wherein each flow field frame has a plurality of flow channels with associated walls.3. (canceled)4. The humidifier according to claim 1 , wherein a plurality of the pins and a corresponding number of pin seats are provided claim 1 , which are associated with the walls.5. The humidifier according to claim 2 , wherein each of a partial quantity of the flow field frames have pins on both sides of the flow field frame assignable to the adjacent membranes claim 2 , and each of a set of the flow field frames ...

FUEL CELL OXYGEN DELIVERY SYSTEM, METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CLEAN FUEL ELECTRIC AIRCRAFT

A fuel cell oxygen delivery system, method, and apparatus for full-scale clean fuel electric-powered vehicle having a fuel cell module including a plurality of fuel cells working together that augments gaseous oxygen from ambient air and gaseous hydrogen extracted from liquid hydrogen by pressure change or heat exchangers, with fuel cells containing electrical circuits configured to collect electrons from the plurality of hydrogen fuel cells to supply voltage and current to motor controllers commanded by control units configured to control an amount and distribution of electrical voltage and torque or current for each of one or more motor and propeller or rotor assembly, wherein electrons returning from the electrical circuits combine with both oxygen derived from air and onboard oxygen from the delivery system to form oxygen ions, then protons combine with oxygen ions to form HO molecules and heat. 1. An oxygen delivery system augmenting oxygen supply to one or more fuel cells , the system comprising:an oxygen delivery storage comprising an onboard oxidizer;one or more actuation or adjustment components;one or more monitoring sensors or metering components; andone or more supply line components in fluid communication with the oxygen delivery storage and in fluid communication with an oxygen flowfield plate, disposed in each of the one or more fuel cells, wherein the oxygen delivery system is connected to or integrated into a power generation subsystem comprising the one or more fuel cells and delivers oxygen in replacement of or in combination with gathered and/or compressed ambient air supplied to an air inlet and/or an inflow end of the oxygen flowfield plate of each of the one or more fuel cells, augmenting oxygen supplied to the one or more fuel cells and thereby supplying additional reactants used for electrical power generation.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein oxygen delivery storage comprises one or more of gaseous oxygen (O) claim 1 , compressed oxygen ...

Air-conditioner for vehicle

An air-conditioner for a vehicle includes: a first circuit in which a cooling medium circulates; a heater heating the cooling medium; a first pump disposed in the first circuit; a second circuit cooling a heat emitting portion; a second pump disposed in the second circuit; an adjustment portion controlling a circulation amount of the cooling medium flowing in the first circuit and a circulation amount of the cooling medium flowing in the second circuit; and a control portion. The vehicle includes a regenerative device, and a storage device is charged with electric energy recovered by the regenerative device. When the regenerative device is recovering the electric energy and when it is determined that power in the storage device needs to be consumed, the control portion drives the heater to heat the cooling medium such that the power in the storage device is converted into heat energy.

Method for operating a fuel cell stack for a fuel cell system, and fuel cell system

A method for operating a fuel cell stack ( 10 ) for a fuel cell system, in particular of a vehicle, in which by reversing the flow direction ( 14, 16 ) of a coolant during a cooling operation, the coolant in the fuel cell stack ( 10 ) is initially conveyed in a first direction ( 14 ). The coolant is subsequently conveyed in a second direction ( 16 ) which is at least substantially opposite to the first direction ( 14 ). A time period, after the elapse of which the flow direction ( 14, 16 ) is reversed, is changed during the cooling operation. In addition, a distance at which a coolant volume is situated from a heat source ( 12 ) that is present in the fuel cell stack ( 10 ) may be changed during the cooling operation. The invention further relates to a fuel cell system.

FUEL CELL SYSTEM CONTAINING WATER INJECTOR AND METHOD OF OPERATING THE SAME

A method of operating a fuel cell system includes providing an anode exhaust from a fuel cell stack to a water injector, supplying water to the water injector, and injecting the water from the water injector into the anode exhaust to vaporize the water and generate a humidified anode exhaust. 1. A fuel cell system , comprising:a fuel cell stack;an anode exhaust conduit configured to receive an anode exhaust from the stack;a water injector configured to inject water into the anode exhaust in the anode exhaust conduit;an anode recuperator configured to receive the anode exhaust from the stack, to heat fuel provided to the stack using heat from the anode exhaust and to provide the anode exhaust to the anode exhaust conduit and the water injector;an anode tail gas oxidizer; anda splitter configured to direct a first portion of the anode exhaust provided from the anode recuperator into the anode exhaust conduit and the water injector, and to direct a second portion of the anode exhaust provided from the anode recuperator into the anode tail gas oxidizer.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the anode recuperator is located below the water injector.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein:the water injector comprises a shroud surrounding an injector ring; andthe shroud is configured to direct the water away from the splitter.4. The system of claim 3 , wherein:the fuel cell system does not include a steam generator;the injector ring is fluidly connected to a water conduit; andthe injector ring is configured to inject the water into the anode exhaust which flows in the anode exhaust conduit.5. The system of claim 4 , wherein the injector ring comprises injection apertures in a surface thereof and configured to inject the water into the anode exhaust.6. The system of claim 5 , further comprising a fuel conduit which extends through the middle of the injector ring and configured to provide the fuel to the stack through the anode recuperator.7. The system of claim 6 , further ...

MOLTEN CARBONATE FUEL CELL ANODE EXHAUST POST-PROCESSING FOR CARBON DIOXIDE CAPTURE

A fuel cell system includes: a first fuel cell including a first anode and a first cathode, wherein the first anode is configured to output a first anode exhaust gas; a first oxidizer configured to receive the first anode exhaust gas and air from a first air supply, to react the first anode exhaust gas and the air in a preferential oxidation reaction, and to output an oxidized gas; a second fuel cell configured to act as an electrochemical hydrogen separator, the second fuel cell including: a second anode configured to receive the oxidized gas from the first oxidizer and to output a second anode exhaust gas, and a second cathode configured to output a hydrogen stream; and a condenser configured to receive the second anode exhaust gas and to separate water and CO. 1. A fuel cell system comprising:a first fuel cell comprising a first anode and a first cathode, wherein the first anode is configured to output a first anode exhaust gas;a first oxidizer configured to receive the first anode exhaust gas and air from a first air supply, to react the first anode exhaust gas and the air in a preferential oxidation reaction, and to output an oxidized gas; a second anode configured to receive the oxidized gas from the first oxidizer and to output a second anode exhaust gas, and', 'a second cathode configured to output a hydrogen stream; and, 'a second fuel cell configured to act as an electrochemical hydrogen separator, the second fuel cell comprising{'sub': '2', 'a condenser configured to receive the second anode exhaust gas and to separate water and CO.'}2. The fuel cell system of claim 1 , wherein the condenser outputs CO claim 1 , and further comprising a compressor configured to receive and liquefy the COoutput from the condenser.3. The fuel cell system of claim 1 , further comprising a second oxidizer configured to receive a first portion of the hydrogen stream from the second cathode and air from a second air supply claim 1 , and to output an oxidized hydrogen stream.4. ...

FUEL CELL FLUID DISTRIBUTION

A bipolar fuel cell plate () for use in a fuel cell comprising a plurality of flow field channels () and a coolant distribution structure () formed as part of the fluid flow field plate. The coolant distribution structure is configured to direct coolant droplets () into the flow field channels. The coolant distribution structure comprises one or more elements () associated with one or more flow field channels, the elements having a first surface () for receiving a coolant droplet and a second surface () having a shape that defines a coolant droplet detachment region for directing a coolant droplet into the associated field flow channel. 1. A bipolar fuel cell plate for use in a fuel cell comprising:a plurality of flow field channels;a coolant distribution structure formed as part of the fluid flow field plate, the coolant distribution structure configured to direct coolant droplets into the flow field channels; andwherein the coolant distribution structure comprises one or more elements associated with one or more flow field channels, the elements having a first surface for receiving a coolant droplet and a second surface having a shape that defines a coolant droplet detachment region for directing a coolant droplet into the associated field flow channel.2. The bipolar fuel cell plate of claim 1 , further comprising a plurality of coolant introducing openings configured to provide coolant droplets to the first surface of the elements.3. The bipolar fuel cell plate of claim 2 , wherein the elements are located in a line of sight between the coolant introducing openings and the flow field channels.4. The bipolar fuel cell plate of claim 2 , wherein the elements are each associated with two coolant introducing openings.5. The bipolar fuel cell plate of claim 2 , further comprising a plurality of air introducing openings for providing air to the flow field channels claim 2 , wherein air received from the air introducing openings is configured to cause droplets to pass ...

MULTI-STACK FUEL CELL SYSTEMS AND HEAT EXCHANGER ASSEMBLIES

A multi-stack fuel cell system includes upper and lower housings defining interior chambers in corresponding upper and lower stacks of fuel cells are disposed. A heat exchanger assembly is fluidly coupled with the interior chambers. The heat exchanger assembly receives input fuel and/or input air from outside of the housings and receives outgoing fuel and/or outgoing air from the fuel cells. The heat exchanger assembly heats the input fuel and/or the input air, and/or cools the outgoing fuel and/or the outgoing air. The heat exchanger assembly may be disposed between the upper and lower housings. The upper housing an upper stack of fuel cells and/or the heat exchanger assembly may assist in compressing the fuel cells in the lower stack against each other. 1. A system comprising:an upper housing defining an upper interior chamber in which an upper stack of fuel cells is disposed; anda lower housing defining a lower interior chamber in which a lower stack of fuel cells is disposed, wherein the upper housing is disposed above the lower housing such that weight of the upper housing and the upper stack of fuel cells compresses the fuel cells in the lower stack inside the lower housing.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the upper interior chamber defined by the upper housing is separate from the lower interior chamber of the lower housing.3. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a heat exchanger assembly disposed between the upper housing and the lower housing claim 1 , wherein the heat exchanger assembly is configured to alter a temperature of one or more of input fuel supplied to the fuel cells in the upper stack and the fuel cells in the lower stack claim 1 , input air supplied to the fuel cells in the upper stack and the fuel cells in the lower stack claim 1 , outgoing fuel received from the fuel cells in the upper stack and the fuel cells in the lower stack claim 1 , or outgoing air received from the fuel cells in the upper stack and the fuel cells in the lower ...

FUEL CELL-POWERED MOTORCYCLE

An air-cooled fuel cell-powered motorcycle allowing early detection of a malfunction in a fuel cell stack. The fuel cell-powered motorcycle includes a vehicle body; an electric motor for driving a driving wheel, an air-cooled fuel cell for supplying electric power to the electric motor and a hydrogen tank for storing a fuel gas supplied to the fuel cell, respectively housed in the vehicle body; a fan for supplying air as a reactant and a coolant to the fuel cell; and an exhaust duct for discharging the air having cooled the fuel cell out of a rear end of the vehicle body, the exhaust duct having an inlet connected to a rear end portion of the fuel cell. 1. A fuel cell-powered motorcycle , comprising:a vehicle body;an electric motor for driving a driving wheel, an air-cooled fuel cell for supplying electric power to the electric motor and a hydrogen tank for storing a fuel gas supplied to the fuel cell, respectively housed in the vehicle body;a fan for supplying air as a reactant and a coolant to the fuel cell; andan exhaust duct for discharging the air having cooled the fuel cell out of a rear end of the vehicle body, the exhaust duct having an inlet connected to a rear end portion of the fuel cell;wherein the motorcycle further includes an in-body hydrogen sensor for detecting hydrogen leaked out of the hydrogen tank, the fuel cell, and a pipe connecting between, and valves attached to, the hydrogen tank and the fuel cell in a region in the vehicle body and outside the exhaust dust, and an in-duct hydrogen sensor for detecting hydrogen in the exhaust duct.2. The fuel cell-powered motorcycle of claim 1 , wherein said in-duct hydrogen sensor is disposed at a relatively high position in the exhaust duct where the exhaust gas mixture from the fuel cell has been fully mixed to allow the detection of a hydrogen concentration therein.3. The fuel cell-powered motorcycle of claim 2 , wherein said in-duct hydrogen sensor is disposed on an inner ceiling surface of the exhaust ...

SOLID OXIDE FUEL CELL

A fuel cell includes a fuel cell stack, a casing, an application part, and a facilitating mechanism. The facilitating mechanism has a space that is provided between the casing and an upper current collector. The upper current collector and the casing are connected at inclined surfaces. 1. A solid oxide fuel cell comprising:a fuel cell stack configured by stacking a plurality of cell units, each of the cell units including an electrolyte electrode assembly and a separator;a casing disposed at one end side of the fuel cell stack in a stacking direction;an application part that applies stacking force to the fuel cell stack along the stacking direction via the casing; anda facilitating mechanism that facilitates elongation of the casing due to linear expansion,the facilitating mechanism having a space that is provided between the casing and an end current collector, which is provided at an end portion on one end side of the fuel cell stack, and that absorbs the linear expansion of the fuel cell stack in the stacking direction, andeach of the end current collector and the casing includes an inclined surface that is inclined relative to the stacking direction, and the end current collector plate and the casing are interconnected at the inclined surfaces via the space.2. The solid oxide fuel cell according to claim 1 , whereinthe facilitating mechanism further includes a heater for heating gas, andthe space is a gas flow passage through which the gas heated by the heater flows.3. The solid oxide fuel cell according to claim 2 , whereinthe gas that flows through the gas flow passage is heating gas that flows inside the fuel cell stack when the fuel cell stack is activated.4. The solid oxide fuel cell according to claim 2 , whereinthe gas flow passage is provided in communication with a space formed between the application part and the fuel cell stack to serve as a cathode gas flow passage.5. The solid oxide fuel cell according to claim 2 , whereinthe end current collector ...

FUEL CELL SYSTEM AND TAIL GAS BURNER ASSEMBLY AND METHOD

The present invention is concerned with improved swirl burners, particularly, but not limited to, swirl burners used in fuel cell systems. 1. A fuel cell system comprising:a burner assembly comprising:(i) a hollow longitudinally elongate body extending along a central axis and having a first end and a second end,(ii) a burner wall located between said first end and said second end, and defining a first volume from said first end to said burner wall, and a second volume from said burner wall to said second end,(iii) an oxidant inlet into said first volume, the oxidant inlet for providing an oxidant flow therethrough, (a) a burner plate or mixer having a first side opening into said first volume, and a second side opening into said second volume,', '(b) a first fuel inlet into said first volume for feeding a first fuel from a first fuel passageway to said first volume; and,', '(c) a second fuel inlet into said second volume for feeding a second fuel from a second fuel passageway to said second volume;, '(iv) at least one hollow elongate burner abutting said burner wall or extending through an opening in said burner wall from said first volume to said second volume, and comprisingwherein the system further comprises at least one connection for selectively connecting the first fuel passageway to the second fuel passageway for delivery of a mixture of the first fuel and second fuel to the second fuel inlet.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the system comprises a three-way valve for selective connection of the first fuel passageway to the second fuel passageway.3. The system of when comprising the mixer claim 1 , wherein the mixer is an axial swirl mixer claim 1 , said axial swirl mixer comprising a plurality of vanes having a first side opening into said first volume claim 1 , and a second side opening into said second volume.4. The system of or when comprising the burner plate claim 1 , said burner plate comprising a plurality of passageways extending between said ...

Fuel cell system

A fuel cell system includes a plurality of electrical components that are supplied with electric power generated by a fuel cell, a refrigerant circuit that cools the fuel cell using a refrigerant, a tank that is connected to the refrigerant circuit, stores the refrigerant, and is replenished with the refrigerant, a detecting unit that detects an insulation resistance value of the fuel cell system, and an identification unit that identifies at what position of the fuel cell system the insulation resistance value has decreased when it is detected that the insulation resistance value has decreased. The detecting unit performs a process of determining whether the decrease in insulation resistance value is temporary when the identified position is the fuel cell and determines that there is no failure requiring repair when the decrease in insulation resistance value is temporary.

ELECTROCHEMICAL CONVERTER

An electrochemical converter with proton membrane includes a plurality of electrochemical unitary cells connected in series and arranged on a carrier tape elongated along a longitudinal axis, a first face of which has anodes that receive hydrogen and a second face has cathodes that receive air, wherein the hydrogen circulates in a flow parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aforementioned tape and the air circulates in a flow transverse to the longitudinal axis of the aforementioned tape, and separation means dividing the air flow into a cooling flow having no contact with the cathodes and a cathodic reaction flow in contact with the cathodes. 1. An electrochemical converter with proton membrane comprising a plurality of electrochemical unitary cells connected in series and arranged on a carrier tape elongated along a longitudinal axis , a first face of which has anodes that receive hydrogen and a second face has cathodes that receive air , wherein the hydrogen circulates in a flow parallel to the longitudinal axis of said tape and the air circulates in a flow transverse to the longitudinal axis of said tape , separation means dividing the air flow into a cooling flow having no contact with the cathodes and a cathodic reaction flow in contact with the cathodes.2. The electrochemical converter according to wherein the separation means are made of a corrugated film claim 1 , the corrugations of which are arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tape.3. The electrochemical converter according to wherein claim 1 , on the anodes side claim 1 , the carrier tape is covered by an elastomer covering provided with longitudinal channels for the passage of hydrogen.4. The electrochemical converter according to wherein the carrier tape is made from two bands claim 1 , wherein a succession of retention windows for unitary cells is formed and which are provided with feed-through slots for strips forming gas diffusion layers and electrical connections between ...

CONTROL APPARATUS AND CONTROL METHOD, AND COMBINED POWER GENERATION SYSTEM PROVIDED THEREWITH

A combined power generation system is promptly activated, and stable operation thereof is provided. A control apparatus of the combined power generation system that generates power by performing cooperative operation combining an SOFC and an MGT, in which the combined power generation system includes: an exhaust fuel gas supply line that supplies exhaust fuel gas to a combustor of the MGT from the SOFC; a recirculation line that branches from the exhaust fuel gas supply line to flow the exhaust fuel gas to the SOFC; and a flow rate adjustment valve provided on a path of the exhaust fuel gas supply line, and in which a gain to an opening of the flow rate adjustment valve is adjusted according to an cooperative operation state of the SOFC and the MGT. 1. A control apparatus of a combined power generation system that generates power by performing cooperative operation combining a fuel cell and an internal combustion engine , wherein an exhaust fuel gas supply line that supplies exhaust fuel gas to a combustor of the internal combustion engine from the fuel cell;', 'a recirculation line that branches from the exhaust fuel gas supply line to flow the exhaust fuel gas to the fuel cell; and', 'a flow rate adjustment valve provided on a path of the exhaust fuel gas supply line, wherein, 'the combined power generation system comprisesa flow rate of the branched exhaust fuel gas that flows through the recirculation line is controlled by an opening of the flow rate adjustment valve, and whereina gain to the opening of the flow rate adjustment valve is adjusted according to a cooperative operation state of the fuel cell and the internal combustion engine.2. The control apparatus of the combined power generation system according to claim 1 , wherein the gain of the opening of the flow rate adjustment valve is adjusted according to gas density of the exhaust fuel gas that flows through the recirculation line and the flow rate of the exhaust fuel gas that flows through the ...

Heat management type fuel cell hot box capable of controlling heat exchange area

The present disclosure relates to a fuel cell hot box for improving the system efficiency of a fuel cell, wherein all of a fuel cell stack part, an afterburner, a reformer, and an air-heat exchange unit are provided inside a main chamber, fuel may be reformed and preheated using heat of the fuel cell stack part and heat of combustion gas generated by the afterburner, and at the same time, air may be also preheated. Thus, wasting energy can be prevented, the lifetime of the entire system can be increased by cooling the fuel cell stack part and increasing the durability of the fuel cell stack part against thermal stress, and a plurality of fuel cell stack parts share the center chamber, thereby simplifying a configuration of the fuel cell hot box. Further, since the reformer is configured to be vertically slidable, a heat exchange area of the reformer may be controlled in a predetermined manner, and thus a flexible system that may adjust a reforming rate of the fuel according to an operation state of the fuel cell may be configured.

HYDROGEN GENERATING APPARATUS AND FUEL CELL SYSTEM

A hydrogen generating apparatus includes a reformer that reforms fuel and generates reformed gas containing hydrogen, a combustor that heats the reformer, an exhaust gas path which covers the surroundings of an outer wall of the reformer and through which combustion exhaust gas from the combustor flows, and a reformed gas path through which the reformed gas sent from the reformer toward the combustor flows. The reformer is arranged on a flame forming side of the combustor, and a gas flow within the reformer in a portion thereof where the gas flow contacts the outer wall of the reformer is opposed to a flow of the combustion exhaust gas in the exhaust gas path in a portion thereof where the combustion exhaust gas contacts the outer wall of the reformer. 1. A hydrogen generating apparatus comprising:a reformer that reforms fuel and generates reformed gas containing hydrogen;a combustor that heats the reformer;an exhaust gas path which covers surroundings of an outer wall of the reformer and through which combustion exhaust gas from the combustor flows; anda reformed gas path through which the reformed gas sent from the reformer toward the combustor flows,wherein the reformer is arranged on a flame forming side of the combustor, and a gas flow within the reformer in a portion thereof where the gas flow contacts the outer wall of the reformer is opposed to a flow of the combustion exhaust gas in the exhaust gas path in a portion thereof where the combustion exhaust gas contacts the outer wall of the reformer.2. The hydrogen generating apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the reformer includes a sidewall portion that is formed by the outer wall and an inner wall.3. The hydrogen generating apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the inner wall and the outer wall are each a circular cylindrical body.4. The hydrogen generating apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the combustor is a circular ring body claim 2 , and the reformed gas path passes through an inner space ...

METAL AIR BATTERY HAVING THERMAL MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE

A metal air battery includes: a battery module comprising a metal air cell configured to use oxygen as a positive electrode active material; an air channel unit including a fluid tube extending from a side of a cathode layer of the metal air cell to a side of a metal anode layer of the metal air cell; and an air supply unit configured to supply air to the air channel unit, wherein the fluid tube is configured to direct air from the side of the cathode layer of the metal air cell to the side of the metal anode layer of the metal air cell. 1. A metal air battery comprising:a battery module comprising a metal air cell configured to use oxygen as a positive electrode active material;an air channel unit comprising a fluid tube extending from a side of a cathode layer of the metal air cell to a side of a metal anode layer of the metal air cell; and 'wherein the fluid tube is configured to direct air from the side of the cathode layer of the metal air cell to the side of the metal anode layer of the metal air cell.', 'an air supply unit configured to supply air to the air channel unit,'}2. The metal air battery of claim 1 ,wherein the battery module comprises a first metal air cell and a second metal air cell, which are adjacent to each other, a first fluid tube disposed on the first metal air cell, and', 'a second fluid tube disposed on the second metal air cell, and, 'wherein the air channel unit comprises'}wherein each of the first fluid tube and the second fluid tube comprises an air inflow unit configured for air inflow and an air outflow unit configured for air outflow.3. The metal air battery of claim 2 , wherein the air inflow unit of the first fluid tube and the air inflow unit of the second fluid tube are disposed between the first metal air cell and the second metal air cell.4. The metal air battery of claim 3 , wherein the first fluid tube and the second fluid tube share a single air inflow unit.5. The metal air battery of claim 4 , wherein the air outflow unit ...

Thermal Managing End Plate For Fuel Cell Stack Assembly

Fuel cell stack assemblies () have a positive end plate () and a negative end plate (), The end plates () can be formed from a central structural element () with an insulating end plate cover () and an insulating end plate manifold (). A plurality of cathode plates () and a plurality of fuel cell assemblies () can be arranged in a stack having an alternating pattern of cathode plates () and fuel cell assemblies (), with the positive end plate () and the negative end plate () provided on either end of the stack of cathode plates and fuel cell assemblies. 16-. (canceled)7300. A negative end plate () comprising:{'b': 320', '322', '321, 'a central structural element () having a top face () and a bottom face ();'}{'b': 310', '322, 'a negative end plate cover () covering the top face (); and'}{'b': 330', '321, 'a negative end plate manifold () covering the bottom face ();'}wherein:{'b': 310', '330', '320, 'the negative end plate cover () and negative end plate manifold () are releasably engageable to each other through a portion of the central structural element () via a plurality of snap clips.'}8. The negative end plate of claim 7 , wherein:{'b': 320', '321', '322, 'the central structural element () is formed with a rib-and-core or honeycombed structure with voids formed extending from the top face () to the bottom face ().'}9. The negative end plate of claim 7 , wherein:{'b': 330', '331', '332, 'the negative end plate manifold () is provided with a ribbed structure to provide for air flow channels from a first side edge () to an opposing side edge ().'}10. The negative end plate of claim 9 , wherein the air flow channels are formed as sinusoidal wave-shaped airflow channels.1116-. (canceled)17200. A positive end plate () comprising:{'b': 220', '221', '222, 'a central structural element () having a top face () and a bottom face ();'}{'b': 210', '221, 'a positive end plate cover () covering the top face (); and'}{'b': 230', '222, 'a positive end plate manifold () ...

Fuel cell system

The present invention relates to a fuel cell system comprising a fuel supply unit, at least one high-temperature fuel cell having a cathode and an anode and an electrolyte between the cathode and anode. The cathode has a cathode supply line and the anode has an anode supply line, wherein the anode is fluidically connected via the anode supply line to the fuel supply unit. Furthermore, a reforming device is arranged in the anode supply line. In addition, an anode exhaust gas line is provided for at least discharging anode exhaust gas from the anode. The fuel cell system has an exhaust gas heat exchanger for cooling exhaust gas and a recirculation conveyor for returning anode exhaust gas to the reforming device. The recirculation conveyor and the exhaust gas heat exchanger are connected to one another in fluid communication for respective cooling via a common cooling circuit, which has a central cooling fluid store as a fluid source with a heat exchanger and in which cooling fluid can be circulated in a cooling line. In addition, the cooling circuit has at least one pump for conveying cooling fluid. The invention further relates to a method for cooling a fuel cell system.

Thermal management of fuel cell units and systems

Various designs and configurations of and methods of operating fuel cell units, fuel cell systems and combined heat and power systems are provided that permit efficient thermal management of such units and systems to improve their operation.

FUEL CELL VENTILATION SYSTEMS

A roof cap assembly for a fuel cell system includes a housing, and a cover assembly disposed on the housing and configured to move between a first position and a second position. The cover assembly includes a cover comprising a first opening and a second opening, and a door connected to the cover and configured to selectively open and close the second opening. When the cover assembly is in the first position, the door closes the second opening, such that the reaction exhaust and the cabinet exhaust are directed through the first opening. When the cover assembly is in the second position, the door opens the second opening, such that the cabinet exhaust is directed through first opening and the reaction exhaust is directed through the second opening. 1. A roof cap assembly for a fuel cell system , the roof cap assembly comprising:a housing; anda cover assembly disposed on the housing and configured to move between a first position and a second position, the cover assembly comprising:a cover comprising a first opening and a second opening; anda door connected to the cover and configured to selectively open and close the second opening, wherein,when the cover assembly is in the first position, the door closes the second opening, such that the reaction exhaust and the cabinet exhaust are directed through the first opening, andwhen the cover assembly is in the second position, the door opens the second opening, such that the cabinet exhaust is directed through first opening and the reaction exhaust is directed through the second opening.2. The roof cap assembly of claim 1 , further comprising a diverter connected to the cover and disposed in the housing claim 1 , wherein:the diverter configured to assume an elevated position and thereby divert at least the cabinet exhaust, when the cover assembly is in the first position; andthe diverter is configured to assume a horizontal position, when the cover assembly is in the second position.3. The roof cap assembly of claim 1 , ...

FUEL CELL SYSTEM

A fuel cell system includes a gas liquid separator provided downstream of a humidifier in an oxygen-containing gas inlet channel, a fuel exhaust gas inlet channel for guiding a fuel exhaust gas containing liquid water discharged from a fuel cell stack to the gas liquid separator. The gas liquid separator performs gas liquid separation of both of an oxygen-containing gas humidified by the humidifier and the fuel exhaust gas containing the liquid water guided from the fuel exhaust gas inlet channel. 1. A fuel cell system comprising:a fuel cell configured to generate electricity by an electrochemical reaction of a fuel gas and an oxygen-containing gas;an oxygen-containing gas inlet channel configured to guide the oxygen-containing gas to the fuel cell;a humidifier provided in the oxygen-containing gas inlet channel;a gas liquid separator provided downstream of the humidifier in the oxygen-containing gas inlet channel; anda fuel exhaust gas inlet channel configured to guide a fuel exhaust gas containing liquid water discharged from the fuel cell to the gas liquid separator,wherein the gas liquid separator is configured to perform gas liquid separation of both of the oxygen-containing gas humidified by the humidifier and the fuel exhaust gas containing the liquid water guided from the fuel exhaust gas inlet channel.2. The fuel cell system according to claim 1 , wherein the gas liquid separator includes a separator body including a proximal part having a separation surface extending in a substantially vertical direction; andthe separator body has an oxygen-containing gas inlet port configured to supply the oxygen-containing gas humidified by the humidifier into the separator body, in a manner that the oxygen-containing gas inlet port faces the separation surface.3. The fuel cell system according to claim 2 , wherein the separator body includes a circumferential wall protruding from the proximal part in a manner to surround the separation surface;the circumferential wall ...

FUEL CELL SYSTEM

A fuel cell system includes a fuel exhaust gas inlet channel for guiding a fuel exhaust gas containing liquid water discharged from a fuel cell stack to a gas liquid separator provided downstream of a humidifier in an oxygen-containing gas inlet channel. The specific gravity of the fuel exhaust gas is lighter than the specific gravity of the oxygen-containing exhaust gas. An outlet channel of the gas liquid separator includes a stirring booster having a first point and a second point positioned downstream of the first point. The second point is positioned ahead of the first point in the gravity direction. 1. A fuel cell system comprising:a fuel cell configured to generate electricity by an electrochemical reaction of a fuel gas and an oxygen-containing gas;an oxygen-containing gas inlet channel configured to supply the oxygen-containing gas to the fuel cell;a humidifier provided in the oxygen-containing gas inlet channel;a gas liquid separator provided downstream of the humidifier in the oxygen-containing gas inlet channel; anda fuel exhaust gas inlet channel configured to guide a fuel exhaust gas containing liquid water discharged from the fuel cell to the gas liquid separator,wherein the gas liquid separator comprises:a separator body configured to perform gas liquid separation of both of the oxygen-containing gas humidified by the humidifier and a fuel exhaust gas containing liquid water guided from the fuel exhaust gas inlet channel; andan outlet channel configured to discharge the oxygen-containing gas and the fuel exhaust gas after gas liquid separation from the separator body, andwherein a specific gravity of the fuel exhaust gas flowing through the outlet channel is lighter than a specific gravity of the oxygen-containing gas; andthe outlet channel comprises a stirring booster having a first point and a second point positioned downstream of the first point; andthe second point is positioned ahead of the first point in a gravity direction.2. The fuel cell ...

FUEL CELL SYSTEM, HYBRID POWER GENERATION SYSTEM, AND CONTROL METHOD FOR FUEL CELL SYSTEM

A fuel cell system that comprises an SOFC that generates power as a result of an oxide gas being supplied to an air electrode and a fuel gas being supplied to a fuel electrode, a plurality of exhaust fuel gas discharge lines that discharge, into the atmosphere, exhaust fuel gas that has been discharged from the fuel electrode, exhaust fuel gas discharge valves that are respectively provided to the plurality of exhaust fuel gas discharge lines, a plurality of exhaust oxide gas discharge lines that discharge, into the atmosphere, exhaust oxide gas that has been discharged from the air electrode, exhaust oxide gas discharge valves that are respectively provided to the plurality of exhaust oxide gas discharge lines, and a control device that, when stopping the SOFC, closes the exhaust oxide gas discharge valves before the exhaust fuel gas discharge valves. 2. The fuel cell system according to claim 1 , further comprising:differential pressure measuring means for measuring a differential pressure between an air electrode side system which is a system on the air electrode side and a fuel electrode side system which is a system on the fuel electrode side, in the fuel cell,wherein the plurality of exhaust fuel gas discharge lines include a first exhaust fuel gas discharge line provided with a first exhaust fuel gas discharge valve, and a second exhaust fuel gas discharge line provided in parallel with the first exhaust fuel gas discharge line and provided with a second exhaust fuel gas discharge valve,wherein the plurality of exhaust oxide gas discharge lines include a first exhaust oxide gas discharge line provided with a first exhaust oxide gas discharge valve, and a second exhaust oxide gas discharge line provided in parallel with the first exhaust oxide gas discharge line and provided with a second exhaust oxide gas discharge valve, andwherein the control device performs control to change the second exhaust fuel gas discharge valve and/or the second exhaust oxide gas ...

PRODUCING PRESSURIZED AND HEATED FLUIDS USING A FUEL CELL

A method of producing temperature and pressure conditioned fluids using a fuel cell. The fuel cell generates an anode exhaust stream of water vapour and carbon dioxide. The water in the exhaust stream is condensed and separated to produce a stream of water and a stream of carbon dioxide. A first portion of the stream of water is heated to produce a stream of steam, which is combined with the fuel to form the anode input stream. A stream of condensed carbon dioxide is obtained by condensing at least a portion of the carbon dioxide in the stream of carbon dioxide. At least one fluid is heated and compressed to a target temperature and pressure for each fluid, the at least one fluid comprising a second portion of the stream of water or at least a portion of the condensed carbon dioxide. 1. A method of producing temperature and pressure conditioned fluids using a fuel cell , the fuel cell having an anode inlet , an anode exhaust , a cathode inlet , and a cathode exhaust , the method comprising the steps of:operating the fuel cell to generate an anode exhaust stream comprising water vapour and carbon dioxide;condensing and separating water from the anode exhaust stream to produce a stream of water and a stream of carbon dioxide;heating a first portion of the stream of water to produce a stream of steam;combining the stream of steam and the fuel to form the anode input stream;obtaining a stream of condensed carbon dioxide by condensing at least a portion of the carbon dioxide in the stream of carbon dioxide; andheating and pressurizing at least one fluid to a target temperature and pressure for each fluid, the at least one fluid comprising a second portion of the stream of water or at least a portion of the condensed carbon dioxide.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the second portion of the stream of water and the at least a portion of the condensed carbon dioxide are each heated to a respective target temperature and pressure.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the ...

VEHICLE POWER UNIT ROOM STRUCTURE

A vehicle power unit room structure is provided including a motor that is disposed inside a power unit room and that is configured to transmit drive force to a drive wheel, a compressor that is disposed adjacent to the motor in a vehicle width direction so as to overlap with the motor as viewed along the vehicle width direction, and a power supply section that is configured to supply power supplied from a power source to the motor and the compressor, and that is disposed at a vehicle upper side of the compressor so as to overlap with the compressor as viewed along a vehicle vertical direction. 1. A vehicle power unit room structure comprising:a motor that is disposed inside a power unit room and that is configured to transmit drive force to a drive wheel;a compressor that is disposed adjacent to the motor in a vehicle width direction so as to overlap with the motor as viewed along the vehicle width direction; anda power supply section that is configured to supply power from a power source to the motor and the compressor, and that is disposed at a vehicle upper side of the compressor so as to overlap with the compressor as viewed along a vehicle vertical direction.2. The vehicle power unit room structure of claim 1 , wherein the compressor is attached to the motor either directly or indirectly.3. The vehicle power unit room structure of claim 2 , wherein:a first support portion configured to support the compressor is attached to the motor;a second support portion configured to support the compressor is attached to the compressor; andan attenuation portion, which is configured to attenuate relative vibration between the motor and the compressor, is interposed between the first support portion and the second support portion.4. The vehicle power unit room structure of claim 1 , wherein the compressor is disposed at a vehicle width direction inner side of a side member claim 1 , which extends along a vehicle front-rear direction claim 1 , such that there is spacing in ...

AIR COOLED FUEL CELL SYSTEM

An air-cooled electronics module is disclosed. The air-cooled electronics module includes a housing and a heat exchanger disposed within the housing and separating the housing into a first portion and a second portion. The air-cooled electronics module also includes one or more electronic components disposed within the first portion, and one or more additional electronic components disposed within the second portion. The air-cooled electronics module further includes at least one fan configured to blow air into the second portion. The air in the first portion is substantially stagnant. 1. An air-cooled electronics module , comprising:a housing;a heat exchanger disposed within the housing and separating the housing into a first portion and a second portion;one or more electronic components disposed within the first portion, and one or more additional electronic components disposed within the second portion; andat least one fan configured to blow air into the second portion,wherein the air in the first portion is substantially stagnant.2. The air-cooled electronics module of claim 1 , wherein the at least one fan is disposed at least one end of the housing.3. The air-cooled electronics module of claim 1 , wherein the heat exchanger includes at least one fin.4. The air-cooled electronics module of claim 4 , wherein the at least one fin extends from the heat exchanger toward the second portion.5. The air-cooled electronics module of claim 1 , wherein the heat exchanger substantially seals the first portion from the second portion.6. The air-cooled electronics module of claim 2 , wherein the one or more additional electronic components disposed within the second portion comprise at least one of a transformer or an inductor.7. The air-cooled electronics module of claim 1 , wherein the one or more electronic components disposed within the first portion include at least one of a DC/DC converter or a control circuit.8. The air-cooled electronics module of claim 1 , further ...

INTEGRATED FUEL CELL SYSTEMS

An integrated fuel cell system includes fuel cells, fuel heat exchangers, air heat exchangers, and tail gas oxidizers. The tail gas oxidizers oxidize a (second) portion of fuel received from the fuel cells with effluent that is output from the fuel cells. Fuel cell stacks are fluidly coupled with the fuel heat exchangers and the tail gas oxidizers such that the fuel that is output from the fuel cells is split into a first portion that is directed back into the fuel heat exchangers and a second portion that is directed into the tail gas oxidizers. 1. A system comprising:one or more fuel cell stacks each including fuel cells configured to generate electric current based on fuel and air supplied to the fuel cells;one or more fuel heat exchangers configured to exchange heat between the fuel supplied to the fuel cells for generating the electric current and a first portion of fuel that is output from the fuel cells;one or more air heat exchangers configured to exchange heat between the air supplied to the fuel cells for generating the electric current and effluent that is output from the fuel cells; andone or more tail gas oxidizers configured to receive a second portion of the fuel that is output from the fuel cells and air that is output from the fuel cells, the one or more tail gas oxidizers configured to oxidize the second portion of the fuel with the effluent that is output from the fuel cells,wherein the one or more fuel cell stacks are fluidly coupled with the one or more fuel heat exchangers and the one or more tail gas oxidizers such that the fuel that is output from the fuel cells is split into the first portion that is directed back into the one or more fuel heat exchangers and the second portion that is directed into the one or more tail gas oxidizers.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the one or more fuel heat exchangers are configured to be fluidly coupled with a fuel blower in order to direct all fuel that is output from the one or more heat exchangers ...

Thermal control system for tramcar

Disclosed is a thermal control system for a tramcar. The system includes a roof profile ( 11 ) arranged above a compartment roof of the tramcar ( 10 ); a fuel cell system ( 12 ) and an air-conditioning system ( 14 ) arranged above the roof profile ( 11 ); and a heat dissipating system ( 13 ) arranged above the roof profile ( 11 ), where the fuel cell system ( 12 ) communicates with the heat dissipating system ( 13 ) via a piping ( 16 ), and the piping ( 16 ) is arranged with a circulating pump ( 15 ) for pumping a coolant to the heat dissipating system. The thermal control system solves the problem of low heat dissipating efficiency of a fuel cell in the prior art.

Membrane humidifier for fuel cell, and fuel cell system comprising same

The present invention relates to a membrane humidifier for a fuel cell capable of simplifying a fuel cell system and miniaturizing the fuel cell system by performing humidification by moisture exchange and cooling by heat exchange in one membrane humidifier, and a fuel cell system comprising same. The membrane humidifier for a fuel cell of the present invention comprises both a humidification module and a heat exchange module in a housing part, and distributes a first fluid to the humidification module and the heat exchange module at a variable distribution ratio.

COOLING AND HUMIDIFYING DEVICE AND FUEL CELL SYSTEM HAVING THE SAME

A cooling and humidifying device includes: a cooling portion cooling cathode gas by exchanging heat between the cathode gas and coolant; a humidifying portion including a moisture permeable member and humidifying the cathode gas by use of moisture contained in cathode off-gas; and a case housing the cooling portion and the humidifying portion. 1. A cooling and humidifying device comprising:a cooling portion including: a coolant flow path through which a coolant flows; a first cathode gas flow path through which cathode gas to be supplied to a fuel cell flows; and a partition wall separating the coolant flow path from the first cathode gas flow path, the cooling portion configured to cool the cathode gas by exchanging heat between the cathode gas and the coolant;a humidifying portion including: a second cathode gas flow path through which the cathode gas flows; a cathode off-gas flow path through which cathode off-gas discharged from the fuel cell flows; and at least one of first and second moisture permeable members each separating the second cathode gas flow path from the cathode off-gas flow path, the humidifying portion configured to humidify the cathode gas by use of moisture contained in the cathode off-gas; anda case including a cathode gas inlet communicating with the first cathode gas flow path, and housing the cooling portion and the humidifying portion such that the first and second cathode gas flow paths communicating with each other and that the second cathode gas flow path is positioned vertically above the first cathode gas flow path,whereinthe first moisture permeable member has a tubular shape defining the second cathode gas flow path on an inside of the first moisture permeable member, and an axial direction of the tubular shape intersects a horizontal direction and extends toward the cooling portion,the second moisture permeable member has a planar shape defining the second cathode gas flow path on one side of the second moisture permeable member, ...

FUEL CELL STACK

A fuel cell stack is provided and includes a plurality of unit cells in which manifolds are provided and an end structural body that includes a current collector and an end plate. The end structural body is disposed at each of outermost sides of the unit cells. Additionally, a heat transfer member is disposed between the end structural body and the outermost side of the unit cell and contacts the outermost side of the unit cell in a planar direction. 1. A fuel cell stack , comprising:a plurality of unit cells in which manifolds are provided;an end structural body that includes a current collector and an end plate, and that is disposed at each of outermost sides of the unit cells; anda heat transfer member that is disposed between the end structural body and the outermost side of the unit cell and contacts the outermost side of the unit cell in a planar direction.2. The fuel cell stack of claim 1 , further comprising:a medium plate interposed between the current collector of the end structural body and the outermost side of the unit cell,wherein the heat transfer member is flatly inserted into one surface of the medium plate.3. The fuel cell stack of claim 2 , wherein an insertion groove into which the heat transfer member is inserted is formed in one surface of the medium plate claim 2 , and the heat transfer member is inserted into the insertion groove claim 2 , and the heat transfer member and the medium plate form the same surface.4. The fuel cell stack of claim 2 , wherein a first side of the heat transfer member is disposed in the manifold that corresponds to a high temperature part from which a reaction fluid and a coolant are discharged claim 2 , and a second side of the heat transfer member is disposed in the manifold that corresponds to a low temperature part in which the reaction fluid and the coolant flow.5. The fuel cell stack of claim 4 , wherein the heat transfer member includes:a main body having thermal conductivity;a wick formed on an inner wall ...

Fast Charging System for Electric Vehicles

The embodiments described and claimed herein are apparatus, systems, and methods for charging an electric vehicle at a stationary service station. In one embodiment, the service station includes a power generation component including at least one fuel cell, a fuel supply component for supplying fuel to the power generation component, a charging component including at least one customer charging station, and a control component for controlling and monitoring the other components and for providing accounting and billing functions.

FUEL CELL SYSTEM

A fuel cell system having a fuel cell stack in a housing includes a compressor that provides compressed ambient air to the fuel cell stack and a ventilation system coupled to a suction side of the compressor to provide ventilation of the housing and cool an associated voltage monitoring unit that may be located within the housing or upstream of the housing. The ventilation system may control a valve to supply air from the compressor outlet to the housing to warm the housing and stack when either or both have a temperature below an associated threshold. The ventilation system may include a second valve to control exhaust from the housing based on the temperature of the housing or stack. Stack exhaust may drive a turbine coupled to the compressor. A heat exchanger may be positioned to cool compressed air from the compressor before flowing to the stack. 1. A fuel cell system comprising:a fuel cell stack having a plurality of fuels cells, the fuel cell stack contained within a housing;a compressor having an inlet coupled to ambient and an outlet coupled to the fuel cell stack;a voltage monitor configured to monitor voltage of the fuel cells; anda ventilation system including a duct coupling the inlet of the compressor to an inlet of the housing.2. The system of wherein the voltage monitor is disposed within the housing.3. The system of further comprising a turbine mounted on a common axis with the compressor claim 1 , and an exhaust duct coupling the fuel cell stack to the turbine.4. The system of further comprising an exhaust duct coupled to the housing and the inlet of the compressor.5. The system of further comprising an electronically controlled valve positioned within the exhaust duct.6. The system of further comprising a hydrogen sensor coupled to the exhaust duct.7. The system of further comprising:a humidifier coupled to the outlet of the compressor and an inlet of the fuel cell stack; anda fuel cell stack exhaust duct coupled to the fuel cell stack and the ...

METHOD OF RECOVERING PERFORMANCE OF FUEL CELL STACK

The present disclosure relates to a method of recovering performance of a fuel cell stack in a fuel cell system of a vehicle. The method includes determining whether the fuel cell stack is in a state in which a stack performance recovery operation is possible based on information collected from the vehicle using a predetermined stack state determination criterion, determining whether the vehicle is in a state in which the stack performance recovery operation is possible based on operation information of a fuel cell system, and performing the stack performance recovery operation upon determining that the fuel cell stack is in the state in which the stack performance recovery operation is possible and that the vehicle is in the state in which the stack performance recovery operation is possible. 1. A method of recovering performance of a fuel cell stack in a fuel cell system of a vehicle , the method comprising:determining, by a controller, whether the fuel cell stack is in a state in which a stack performance recovery operation is possible based on information collected from the vehicle using a predetermined stack state determination criterion;determining, by the controller, whether the vehicle is in a state in which the stack performance recovery operation is possible based on operation information of a fuel cell system; andperforming, by the controller, the stack performance recovery operation upon determining that the fuel cell stack is in the state in which the stack performance recovery operation is possible and that the vehicle is in the state in which the stack performance recovery operation is possible.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the determining whether the fuel cell stack is in a state in which a stack performance recovery operation is possible comprises:determining an integrated value of stack current obtained by integrating current output from the fuel cell stack during operation of the fuel cell system;comparing the determined integrated value of ...

HOUSING

A housing that houses a fuel cell system including: a hydrogen storage unit; a fuel cell stack that generates electric power using hydrogen supplied from the hydrogen storage unit; a pipe that connects the hydrogen storage unit and the fuel cell stack; and a power storage unit, the housing includes: an upper surface portion; a plurality of side surface portions; a ventilation hole, provided with the upper surface portion, configured to ventilate an inside and an outside of the housing; a ventilation hole, provided with a side surface portion of the plurality of side surface portions, configured to ventilate the inside and the outside of the housing; and an air supply device configured to discharge air taken in through one ventilation hole of the ventilation hole of the upper face portion and the ventilation hole of the side face portion from the other ventilation hole.

HOUSING

A housing that houses a fuel cell system including: a hydrogen storage unit having a hydrogen supply/discharge hole and capable of storing hydrogen; a fuel cell stack that generates electric power using the supplied hydrogen; a pipe having one end connected to the supply/discharge hole and the other end connected to the fuel cell stack, and supplying the hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit to the fuel cell stack; and a power storage unit that stores at least electric power obtained by electric power generation performed by the fuel cell stack, the housing includes: a first portion, in which the power storage unit is disposed on a lower surface portion of the housing; and a second portion, in which the supply/discharge hole, the fuel cell stack, and the pipe are provided, the second part being located higher than an upper surface portion of the power storage unit.

FUEL CELL SYSTEM INCLUDING HIGH-TEMPERATURE DESULFURIZATION SUBSYSTEM AND METHOD OF OPERATING THE SAME

A fuel cell system includes a hot box, a stack of fuel cells disposed in the hot box, and a desulfurization subsystem. The desulfurization subsystem may include a sulfur adsorption reactor containing a metal oxide, such as ZnO, configured to adsorb sulfur species from fuel, a first fuel conduit configured to provide fuel to the reactor, and a second fuel conduit configured to receive fuel from the reactor. The desulfurization subsystem may be configured to heat the reactor to an operating temperature ranging from about 200° C. to about 450° C., using heat generated in the hot box. 1. A fuel cell system comprising:a hot box;a stack of fuel cells disposed in the hot box; and a sulfur adsorption reactor comprising a metal oxide configured to adsorb sulfur species from fuel; and', 'a first fuel conduit configured to provide fuel to the reactor,', 'wherein the subsystem is configured heat the reactor to an operating temperature ranging from about 200° C. to about 450° C., using heat generated in the hot box., 'a desulfurization subsystem comprising2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the subsystem further comprises:a cathode exhaust conduit configured to receive at least one of cathode exhaust or anode tail gas oxidizer (ATO) exhaust from the hot box; anda cathode heat exchanger configured to transfer heat from the at least one of the cathode exhaust or the ATO exhaust in the cathode exhaust conduit to fuel in the first fuel conduit.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the subsystem further comprises a fuel heat exchanger configured to transfer heat from fuel in a second fuel conduit to fuel in the first fuel conduit.4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the subsystem further comprises a trim heater configured to heat fuel in the first fuel conduit.5. The system of claim 4 , wherein the cathode heat exchanger is disposed upstream of the fuel heat exchanger claim 4 , and the fuel heat exchanger is disposed upstream of the trim heater claim 4 , with respect to a fuel flow ...

FUEL CELL SYSTEM, A FIRE FIGHTING SYSTEM, AND AN AIRCRAFT

A fuel cell system for an aircraft includes a fuel cell, wherein at the cathode side a cathode inlet and a cathode outlet is provided, and wherein at the anode side an anode inlet and an anode outlet is provided, and a cathode recirculation channel for passing the cathode product fluid from the cathode outlet to the cathode inlet. In the fuel cell system, the water content of the cathode product fluid in the cathode recirculation channel can be reduced or at least stabilized in a possibly effective way, because the cathode recirculation channel includes a water extraction device for extracting water from the cathode product fluid. 1. A fuel cell system for an aircraft comprising:a fuel cell having a cathode side and an anode side, wherein the cathode side includes a cathode inlet for supplying an oxidant fluid to the fuel cell and a cathode outlet for discharging a cathode product fluid from the fuel cell, and wherein the anode side includes an anode inlet for supplying a fuel fluid to the fuel cell and an anode outlet for discharging an anode product fluid from the fuel cell; anda cathode recirculation channel connecting the cathode outlet to the cathode inlet for passing the cathode product fluid from the cathode outlet to the cathode inlet,wherein the cathode recirculation channel comprises a water extraction device for extracting water from the cathode product fluid,wherein an oxidant supply channel is connected to the cathode recirculation channel for introducing oxidant fluid into the cathode recirculation channel, andwherein the oxidant supply channel is connected to an oxygen reservoir storing oxygen,wherein the cathode recirculation channel comprises a cooling section,wherein the cooling section comprises a cooler device for cooling the cathode product fluid in the cathode recirculation channel,wherein the water extraction device is provided in the cooling section downstream from the cooler device, andwherein the oxidant supply channel extends through the ...

Exhaust Air Guide of a Fuel Cell Stack in a Motor Vehicle

An exhaust-air guide of a fuel cell stack having a cooling structure, in particular in a motor vehicle, is provided. The cooler structure belongs to the functional environment of the fuel cell stack and is in form through which ambient air flows. The exhaust air of the fuel cell stack is guided to a point upstream of the cooler structure such that the exhaust air flows through the cooler structure in a throughflow direction and, in so doing, entrains ambient air in accordance with the jet pump principle. The exhaust air of the fuel cell stack may be cooled before being guided to the cooler structure. The exhaust air of the fuel cell stack is guided to a point upstream of the cooler structure in multiple pipes that are oriented at least approximately parallel to the inflow surface of the cooler structure, from which pipes the exhaust air emerges via outlet openings in the pipe wall. The outlet openings are situated at a suitable angle with respect to the throughflow direction. 1. An exhaust-air guide of a fuel cell stack , comprising:a cooler structure of the fuel cell stack, wherein ambient air flows through the cooler structure; anda guide for conducting exhaust air of the fuel stack to a point upstream of the cooler structure, wherein the exhaust air flows through the cooler structure in a throughflow direction which entrains ambient air in accordance with a jet pump principle.2. The exhaust-air guide according to claim 1 , wherein the exhaust air of the fuel cell stack is cooled before being guided to the cooler structure.3. The exhaust-air guide according to claim 2 , further comprising:multiple pipes through which the exhaust air of the fuel cell stack is guided to the point upstream of the cooler structure, wherein:the multiple pipes are oriented at least approximately parallel to an inflow surface of the cooler structure, andthe exhaust air emerges from the multiple pipes via outlet openings formed in walls of the pipes, said outlet openings being configured ...

Fuel Cell System and Method for Its Operation

A fuel cell system () comprising a fuel cell (), a liquid fuel supply () for providing liquid fuel, an evaporator () for evaporating the liquid fuel to fuel vapor, a reformer () for catalytic conversion of the fuel vapor to syngas for the fuel cell and a burner () for heating the reformer (). The burner () comprises a catalytic monolith () down-stream of a mixing chamber () in which air is mixed with evaporated fuel or rest gas prior to entering the monolith (). The mixing chamber () is surrounded by a sleeve (), which comprises a plurality of openings (A, B) around the mixing chamber () for supply of fuel vapor through the openings (A, B) in the startup phase and for supply of rest gas through the openings (A, B) during normal operation. Optionally, a heat exchanger () is provided between the burner () and the reformer () for reducing the temperature of the exhaust gas from the burner () before it reaches the reformer (). This temperature reduction prevents degradation of the reformer () by hot exhaust gas during start-up of the fuel cell system (). 1. A fuel cell system , comprising:{'b': '2', 'a fuel cell ();'}{'b': '3', 'a liquid fuel supply () for providing liquid fuel;'}{'b': 6', '5', '3', '3', '6, 'an evaporator () configured for evaporating the liquid fuel to fuel vapor and an upstream liquid-conduit (A) to the liquid fuel supply () for receiving the liquid fuel from the liquid fuel supply () by the evaporator ();'}{'b': 7', '5', '6', '8', '5', '7', '2', '8', '2, 'a reformer () for catalytic conversion of the fuel vapor to syngas; a vapor-conduit (B) for providing the fuel vapor from the evaporator () to the reformer (); a syngas-conduit (C) from the reformer () to the fuel cell () for providing syngas from the reformer () to the fuel cell ();'}{'b': 8', '2', '8', '7', '33', '7, 'a burner (′) configured for catalytic burning of fuel vapor or rest gas from the fuel cell () and for providing heated exhaust gas from the burning; the burner (′) having a gas ...

FUEL CELL COOLING SYSTEM FOR VEHICLE AND FUEL CELL-POWERED VEHICLE

The grill shutter is disposed between the front grill and the air intake duct. The grill shutter is capable of opening or closing shutter members and regulating positions of the shutter members when being opened. When a maximum supplied flow rate of air provided by the wind during running is greater than a flow rate of air required for the hydrogen fuel battery, the required flow rate of air is established only by opening/closing control of the shutter members through a grill shutter opening instruction. If this is not the case, the grill shutter members are opened fully through the grill shutter opening instruction to maximize the volume of the wind during running taken in from the front grille. Additionally, a shortfall in the required flow rate of air for the hydrogen fuel battery is compensated for by actuating the blower through a blower speed instruction. 1. A fuel cell cooling system for a vehicle comprising:a first air inlet provided in a front portion of a vehicle;an air supply path which supplies air, as taken in from said first air inlet, to a fuel cell which supplies electric power to a driving motor;a regulating member which is provided in said air supply path and regulates an amount of air to be supplied from the air supply path to said fuel cell;a blower which provides an air flow to said fuel cell; anda control portion which controls said regulating member and said blower to regulate an amount of air supplied from the air supply path and the blower to the fuel cell.2. A fuel cell cooling system as set forth in claim 1 , further comprising a vehicle speed detecting portion which detects a speed of the vehicle claim 1 , wherein said control portion works to derive a flow rate of air required for the fuel cell from an output of the fuel cell to control said regulating member based on the required flow rate of air and said vehicle speed claim 1 , thereby regulating the amount of air supplied from the air supply path to the fuel cell claim 1 , and wherein ...

FUEL CELL SYSTEM WITH ANODE RECYCLING

A fuel cell system including: a fuel cell assembly; a fuel feed conduit; a gas feed conduit; an anode exhaust. The anode exhaust conduit is in fluid communication with the fuel feed conduit and at least a portion of a fluid in the anode exhaust conduit is recycled to the fuel feed conduit. The fuel cell system may include a temperature measurement device for determining a fuel cell temperature and/or a current measurement device for determining a fuel cell current. A first control can be configured to control a flow rate of the fluid in the anode exhaust conduit which is recycled into the fuel feed conduit in response to the fuel cell temperature. A second control can be configured to control a flow rate of a fluid in the gas feed conduit in response to the fuel cell current. 1. A fuel cell system comprising:a fuel cell assembly comprising an anode and a cathode;a fuel feed conduit in fluid communication with the fuel cell assembly;a gas feed conduit in fluid communication with the fuel cell assembly,an anode exhaust conduit in fluid communication with the fuel cell assembly, wherein the anode exhaust conduit is in fluid communication with the fuel feed conduit and wherein at least a portion of a fluid in the anode exhaust conduit is recycled to the fuel feed conduit;a temperature measurement device for determining a fuel cell temperature;a current measurement device for determining a fuel cell current;a first control in communication with the temperature measurement device, wherein the first control is configured to control a flow rate of the fluid in the anode exhaust conduit which is recycled into the fuel feed conduit in response to the fuel cell temperature; anda second control in communication with the current measurement device, wherein the second control is configured to control a flow rate of a fluid in the gas feed conduit in response to the fuel cell current.2. The fuel cell system according to claim 1 , wherein the second control is configured to control ...

ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM AND APPLICATIONS

An energy storage system converts variable renewable electricity (VRE) to continuous heat at over 1000° C. Intermittent electrical energy heats a solid medium. Heat from the solid medium is delivered continuously on demand. An array of bricks incorporating internal radiation cavities is directly heated by thermal radiation. The cavities facilitate rapid, uniform heating via reradiation. Heat delivery via flowing gas establishes a thermocline which maintains high outlet temperature throughout discharge. Gas flows through structured pathways within the array, delivering heat which may be used for processes including calcination, hydrogen electrolysis, steam generation, and thermal power generation and cogeneration. Groups of thermal storage arrays may be controlled and operated at high temperatures without thermal runaway via deep-discharge sequencing. Forecast-based control enables continuous, year-round heat supply using current and advance information of weather and VRE availability. High-voltage DC power conversion and distribution circuitry improves the efficiency of VRE power transfer into the system. 1. A system for thermal energy storage and delivery , comprising:{'b': '4100', 'a thermal storage assemblage () including a plurality of thermal storage blocks, wherein at least some of the thermal storage blocks include multiple radiation cavities and multiple fluid flow slots, wherein some of the radiation cavities and some of the fluid flow slots are configured to define fluid pathways through the thermal storage blocks;'}{'b': '3607', 'a plurality of heater elements () positioned within the thermal storage assemblage and adjacent to at least some of the radiation cavities, wherein each of the plurality of heater elements is configured to heat at least one of the thermal storage blocks via energy radiated into multiple ones of the radiation cavities and onto surfaces that bound the respective radiation cavities; and'}{'b': 213', '4223, 'a fluid movement system ...

Thermal Energy Storage System with System for Deep Discharge of Thermal Storage Blocks

An energy storage system converts variable renewable electricity (VRE) to continuous heat at over 1000° C. Intermittent electrical energy heats a solid medium. Heat from the solid medium is delivered continuously on demand. An array of bricks incorporating internal radiation cavities is directly heated by thermal radiation. The cavities facilitate rapid, uniform heating via reradiation. Heat delivery via flowing gas establishes a thermocline which maintains high outlet temperature throughout discharge. Gas flows through structured pathways within the array, delivering heat which may be used for processes including calcination, hydrogen electrolysis, steam generation, and thermal power generation and cogeneration. Groups of thermal storage arrays may be controlled and operated at high temperatures without thermal runaway via deep-discharge sequencing. Forecast-based control enables continuous, year-round heat supply using current and advance information of weather and VRE availability. High-voltage DC power conversion and distribution circuitry improves the efficiency of VRE power transfer into the system. 1. A thermal energy storage system configured to produce an output fluid flow , the thermal energy storage system comprising:a first assemblage of first thermal storage blocks and a second assemblage of second thermal storage blocks, the first and second thermal storage blocks configured to store thermal energy; and direct fluid flows during a first discharge period such that the first assemblage, but not the second assemblage, is discharged to within a deep-discharge temperature region; and', 'direct fluid flows during a second discharge period such that the second assemblage, but not the first assemblage, is discharged to within the deep-discharge temperature region., 'a control system configured to2. The thermal energy storage system of claim 1 , wherein the control system is configured claim 1 , during successive discharge periods claim 1 , to alternate between ...

Thermal Energy Storage System With Heat Discharge System to Prevent Thermal Runaway

An energy storage system converts variable renewable electricity (VRE) to continuous heat at over 1000° C. Intermittent electrical energy heats a solid medium. Heat from the solid medium is delivered continuously on demand. An array of bricks incorporating internal radiation cavities is directly heated by thermal radiation. The cavities facilitate rapid, uniform heating via reradiation. Heat delivery via flowing gas establishes a thermocline which maintains high outlet temperature throughout discharge. Gas flows through structured pathways within the array, delivering heat which may be used for processes including calcination, hydrogen electrolysis, steam generation, and thermal power generation and cogeneration. Groups of thermal storage arrays may be controlled and operated at high temperatures without thermal runaway via deep-discharge sequencing. Forecast-based control enables continuous, year-round heat supply using current and advance information of weather and VRE availability. High-voltage DC power conversion and distribution circuitry improves the efficiency of VRE power transfer into the system. 1. A thermal energy storage system , comprising:a first assemblage of first thermal storage blocks and a second assemblage of second thermal storage blocks, the first and second thermal storage blocks configured to store thermal energy; and direct fluid flows to the first and second assemblages to produce an output fluid flow;', 'during a first discharge period, perform a first discharge operation by discharging the first assemblage sufficiently to prevent thermal runaway while discharging the second assemblage to at or above a delivery temperature of the output fluid flow; and', 'during a second, successive discharge period, perform a second discharge operation by discharging the second assemblage sufficiently to prevent thermal runaway while discharging the first assemblage to at or above the delivery temperature., 'a control system configured to2. The thermal ...

FUEL CELL SYSTEM INCLUDING SULFUR OXIDATION SUBSYSTEM AND METHOD OF OPERATING THE SAME

A fuel cell system includes a first fuel conduit configured to receive fuel from a fuel source, a reactor fluidly connected to the first fuel conduit and configured to selectively oxidize sulfur species in fuel received from the first fuel conduit, and fuel cells configured to generate power using fuel containing oxidized sulfur species received from the reactor. 1. A fuel cell system comprising:a first fuel conduit configured to receive fuel from a fuel source;a reactor fluidly connected to the first fuel conduit and configured to selectively oxidize sulfur species in fuel received from the first fuel conduit; andfuel cells configured to generate power using fuel containing oxidized sulfur species received from the reactor.2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a blower configured to inject air into fuel provided to the reactor claim 1 , wherein:the reactor comprises a catalyst configured to selectively catalyze an oxidation reaction between the injected air and the sulfur species; andthe reactor is configured to heat fuel received from the fuel conduit using at least one exhaust stream from the fuel cells.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the reactor comprises a heat exchanger configured to heat to the fuel received from the fuel conduit using at least one exhaust stream from the fuel cells which does not mix with the fuel in the heat exchanger.4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the reactor further comprises a trim heater configured to increase the temperature of fuel heated by the heat exchanger.5. The system of claim 3 , further comprising:a cathode recuperator heat exchanger configured to heat air provided to the fuel cells using cathode exhaust emitted from the fuel cells; anda cathode exhaust conduit configured to provide the cathode exhaust from the cathode recuperator to the reactor to heat the fuel.6. The system of claim 3 , further comprising:an anode tail gas oxidizer (ATO) configured to oxidize fuel exhaust from the fuel cells using cathode ...

INTEGRATION OF FUEL CELL WITH CRYOGENIC SOURCE FOR COOLING AND REACTANT

A fuel cell-based power system comprises a fuel cell configured for continuously receiving a first reactant and a second reactant to produce chemical reactions that generate electrical power, water, and heat, a coolant subsystem configured for circulating a primary coolant in association with the fuel cell, thereby absorbing the generated heat, a tank configured for storing a reactant, and a reactant distribution subsystem configured for conveying the reactant from the tank to an independent system, the fuel cell as the first reactant, and the coolant subsystem as a secondary coolant to remove the absorbed heat from the primary coolant and/or a water accumulator. The secondary coolant may be conveyed to a gas thruster as a gas after the absorbed heat has been removed from the secondary coolant. The reactant may boil off of a cryogenic liquid or vapor or gas transformed from a cryogenic liquid via a heater. 1. A fuel cell-based power system , comprising:a fuel cell configured for continuously receiving a first reactant and a second reactant to produce chemical reactions that generate electrical power, water, and heat;a coolant subsystem configured for circulating a primary coolant in association with the fuel cell, thereby absorbing at least a portion of the heat from the fuel cell;a tank configured for storing a reactant; anda reactant distribution subsystem configured for conveying the reactant from the tank to the fuel cell as the first reactant, and further conveying the reactant from the tank to the coolant subsystem as a secondary coolant to remove at least a portion of absorbed heat from the primary coolant.2. The fuel cell-based power system of claim 1 , wherein the coolant subsystem comprises a coolant loop configured for circulating the primary coolant through the fuel cell claim 1 , and a heat exchanger configured for removing the at least portion of the absorbed heat from the primary coolant and injecting the at least portion of the absorbed heat into the ...

Thermo-electrochemical converter with integrated energy storage

An electrochemical direct heat to electricity converter includes a primary thermal energy source; a working fluid; an electrochemical cell comprising at least one membrane electrode assembly including a first porous electrode, a second porous electrode and at least one membrane, wherein the at least one membrane is sandwiched between the first and second porous electrodes and is a conductor of ions of the working fluid; an energy storage reservoir; and an external load. The electrochemical cell operates on heat to produce electricity. When thermal energy available from the primary thermal energy source is greater than necessary to meet demands of the external load, excess energy is stored in the energy storage reservoir, and when the thermal energy available from the primary thermal energy source is insufficient to meet the demands of the external load, at least a portion of the excess energy stored in the energy storage reservoir is used to supply power to the external load.

COOLING PLATES FOR FUEL CELLS

A separator plate in an air-cooled fuel cell comprises a series of airflow channels, each channel extending longitudinally between first and second opposing edges of the separator plate. Each channel has a cross-sectional profile defining an airflow cross-section at points along the length of the channel, and at least selected ones of the channels each have a thermally conductive structure extending into the channel cross-section at selected intermediate longitudinal positions of the channel. The positions are disposed over an active area of the fuel cell, to locally enhance heat transfer from the active area via the plate to airflow moving through the channel. 1. A separator plate in an air-cooled fuel cell comprising:a series of airflow channels, each channel extending longitudinally between first and second opposing edges of the separator plate,each channel having a cross-sectional profile defining an airflow cross-section at points along the length of the channel, and,at least selected ones of the channels each having a thermally conductive structure extending into the channel cross-section at selected intermediate longitudinal positions of the channel, the positions being disposed over an active area of the fuel cell, to locally enhance heat transfer from the active area via the plate to airflow moving through the channel.2. The fuel cell separator plate of in which the thermally conductive structure extending into the channel cross-section is a fin.3. The fuel cell separator plate of in which the thermally conductive structure extending into the channel cross-section is one or more bumps.4. The fuel cell separator plate of in which the thermally conductive structure extending into the channel cross-section is a partition wall extending to the height or width of the channel cross-section.5. The fuel cell separator plate of in which the fin or bump varies in height as a function of distance along the length of the channel.6. The fuel cell separator plate of in ...

SOLID OXIDE FUEL CELL POWER PLANT HAVING A FIXED CONTACT OXIDATION CATALYZED SECTION OF A MULTI-SECTION CATHODE AIR HEAT EXCHANGER

The multi-section cathode air heat exchanger () includes at least a first heat exchanger section (), and a fixed contact oxidation catalyzed section () secured adjacent each other in a stack association. Cool cathode inlet air flows through cool air channels () of the at least first () and oxidation catalyzed sections (). Hot anode exhaust flows through hot air channels () of the oxidation catalyzed section () and is combusted therein. The combusted anode exhaust then flows through hot air channels () of the first section () of the cathode air heat exchanger (). The cool and hot air channels () are secured in direct heat exchange relationship with each other so that temperatures of the heat exchanger () do not exceed 800° C. to minimize requirements for using expensive, high-temperature alloys. 1. A solid oxide fuel cell power plant for generating an electrical current , the power plant comprising:a. a solid oxide fuel cell having a cathode inlet line and an anode exhaust line; i. at least one first heat-exchange section including opposed top and bottom walls and that defines a plurality of cold air channels between the walls and that are secured in fluid communication with the cathode inlet line for directing the oxidant reactant from the cathode inlet line through the plurality of cold air channels, the first heat-exchange section also defining a plurality of hot air channels between the walls and secured in direct heat-exchange relationship with and in fluid isolation from the first heat-exchange section cold air channels;', 'ii. a fixed contact oxidation catalyzed section including opposed top and bottom walls and that defines a plurality of cold air channels between the walls and that are secured in fluid communication with the cold air channels of the first heat exchange section, the fixed contact oxidation catalyzed section also defining a plurality of hot air channels secured in direct heat-exchange relationship with and in fluid isolation from the oxidation ...

Energy regeneration in fuel cell-powered datacenter with thermoelectric generators

A method of controlling energy in a datacenter includes receiving a fuel cell operating percentage of an operating capacity of the fuel cell, receiving a fuel cell exhaust temperature, receiving a hot aisle air temperature from a hot aisle of a server computer, determining a temperature delta between the hot aisle air temperature and the fuel cell exhaust temperature, and then allocating virtual machine placements to change a server user percentage relative to a server user capacity percentage target value to optimize the fuel cell operating percentage relative to the fuel cell efficiency target value, the temperature delta relative to the thermoelectric generator efficiency target value, and the server user percentage relative to the server user capacity percentage target value.

FUEL CELL VEHICLE

A fuel cell vehicle provided with an exhaust duct structure is capable of reliably diluting hydrogen flowing into an exhaust duct. The fuel cell vehicle includes a vehicle body, an air-cooled fuel cell mounted in the vehicle body to generate power by allowing hydrogen gas and oxygen in air to react with each other, an exhaust duct through which exhaust air of the fuel cell is guided to a rear end of the vehicle body and is discharged outside the fuel cell vehicle, and a fan guiding air into the exhaust duct to dilute hydrogen in the exhaust duct. 1. A fuel cell vehicle comprising:a vehicle body;an air-cooled fuel cell mounted in the vehicle body to generate power by allowing hydrogen gas and oxygen in air to react with each other;an exhaust duct through which exhaust air of the fuel cell is guided to a rear end of the vehicle body and is discharged outside the fuel cell vehicle; anda fan guiding air into the exhaust duct to dilute hydrogen in the exhaust duct.2. The fuel cell vehicle according to claim 1 , whereinthe fan is provided in a lower portion of the exhaust duct, and is arranged to blow rearward of the vehicle body.3. The fuel cell vehicle according to claim 1 , further comprising:a dilution accelerating wall provided inside the exhaust duct and facing the fan to disperse a flow generated by the fan into the exhaust duct for acceleration of dilution of hydrogen.4. The fuel cell vehicle according to claim 2 , further comprising:a dilution accelerating wall provided inside the exhaust duct and facing the fan to disperse a flow generated by the fan into the exhaust duct for acceleration of dilution of hydrogen.5. The fuel cell vehicle according to claim 1 , whereinthe fuel cell includes a surplus hydrogen exhaust pipe discharging unreacted surplus hydrogen andthe exhaust duct includes a surplus hydrogen guide passage through which the surplus hydrogen is guided from the surplus hydrogen exhaust pipe into the exhaust duct, the surplus hydrogen being guided to ...

FUEL CELL TWO-WHEELED VEHICLE

A fuel cell two-wheeled vehicle includes an electric machine configured to drive a drive wheel, an air-cooled fuel cell configured to supply electric power to the electric machine, and a fuel gas tank that accumulates fuel gas supplied to the fuel cell. A battery pack is disposed in a space between an intake air inlet and an air intake duct and surrounded by a seat and a vehicle body cover. The intake air inlet is disposed below a front portion of the seat. 1. A fuel cell two-wheeled vehicle , comprising:an electric machine configured to drive a drive wheel;an air-cooled fuel cell configured to supply electric power to the electric machine; anda fuel gas tank that accumulates fuel gas supplied to the fuel cell, whereinthe fuel cell is inclined forward inside a vehicle body cover, the vehicle body cover covering a right and left and backward and forward of a seat from a lower side, the fuel cell being disposed above the drive wheel and downward the seat, an air intake duct being disposed at a front of the fuel cell,an air intake fan is coupled to an exhaust air duct, the air intake fan being configured to introduce air for both reaction and cooling to the fuel cell, the exhaust air duct being disposed at a rear of the air intake fan, air that has passed through the exhaust air duct being discharged from a discharge port of the exhaust air duct to a lower surface side of the vehicle body cover, anda battery pack is disposed in a space between an intake air inlet and the air intake duct and surrounded by the seat and the vehicle body cover, the intake air inlet being disposed below a front portion of the seat.2. The fuel cell two-wheeled vehicle according to claim 1 , whereina cooling fin is disposed on a top surface of the battery pack along a vehicle front-rear direction.3. The fuel cell two-wheeled vehicle according to claim 2 , whereinthe cooling fin is disposed approximately parallel to the top surface of the battery pack in a vehicle side view, a rear portion of ...

Thermal Energy Storage System with Alternating Discharge Operation

An energy storage system converts variable renewable electricity (VRE) to continuous heat at over 1000° C. Intermittent electrical energy heats a solid medium. Heat from the solid medium is delivered continuously on demand. An array of bricks incorporating internal radiation cavities is directly heated by thermal radiation. The cavities facilitate rapid, uniform heating via reradiation. Heat delivery via flowing gas establishes a thermocline which maintains high outlet temperature throughout discharge. Gas flows through structured pathways within the array, delivering heat which may be used for processes including calcination, hydrogen electrolysis, steam generation, and thermal power generation and cogeneration. Groups of thermal storage arrays may be controlled and operated at high temperatures without thermal runaway via deep-discharge sequencing. Forecast-based control enables continuous, year-round heat supply using current and advance information of weather and VRE availability. High-voltage DC power conversion and distribution circuitry improves the efficiency of VRE power transfer into the system. 1. A thermal energy storage system configured to produce an output fluid flow , the thermal energy storage system comprising:a first assemblage of first thermal storage blocks and a second assemblage of second thermal storage blocks, the first and second thermal storage blocks configured to store thermal energy; and direct fluid flows during a first discharge period to perform a first discharge operation in which the first assemblage, but not the second assemblage, is discharged below a delivery temperature of the output fluid flow; and', 'direct fluid flows during a second, successive discharge period to perform a second discharge operation in which the second assemblage, but not the first assemblage, is discharged below the delivery temperature., 'a control system configured to2. The thermal energy storage system of claim 1 , wherein the control system is ...

Thermal Energy Storage System With Steam Generator Having Feed-Forward Control

An energy storage system converts variable renewable electricity (VRE) to continuous heat at over 1000° C. Intermittent electrical energy heats a solid medium. Heat from the solid medium is delivered continuously on demand. An array of bricks incorporating internal radiation cavities is directly heated by thermal radiation. The cavities facilitate rapid, uniform heating via reradiation. Heat delivery via flowing gas establishes a thermocline which maintains high outlet temperature throughout discharge. Gas flows through structured pathways within the array, delivering heat which may be used for processes including calcination, hydrogen electrolysis, steam generation, and thermal power generation and cogeneration. Groups of thermal storage arrays may be controlled and operated at high temperatures without thermal runaway via deep-discharge sequencing. Forecast-based control enables continuous, year-round heat supply using current and advance information of weather and VRE availability. High-voltage DC power conversion and distribution circuitry improves the efficiency of VRE power transfer into the system.

Thermal Energy Storage System With Forecast Control Of Operating Parameters

An energy storage system converts variable renewable electricity (VRE) to continuous heat at over 1000° C. Intermittent electrical energy heats a solid medium. Heat from the solid medium is delivered continuously on demand. An array of bricks incorporating internal radiation cavities is directly heated by thermal radiation. The cavities facilitate rapid, uniform heating via reradiation. Heat delivery via flowing gas establishes a thermocline which maintains high outlet temperature throughout discharge. Gas flows through structured pathways within the array, delivering heat which may be used for processes including calcination, hydrogen electrolysis, steam generation, and thermal power generation and cogeneration. Groups of thermal storage arrays may be controlled and operated at high temperatures without thermal runaway via deep-discharge sequencing. Forecast-based control enables continuous, year-round heat supply using current and advance information of weather and VRE availability. High-voltage DC power conversion and distribution circuitry improves the efficiency of VRE power transfer into the system. 1. A thermal energy storage system , comprising:a storage medium configured to store thermal energy obtained using input electrical energy from an energy source;a heating element configured to thermally charge the storage medium by converting at least a portion of the input electrical energy to thermal energy; [ 'receive forecast information regarding availability of the energy source, and', 'a control system configured to'}, 'based on the forecast information, adjust an operating parameter of the thermal energy storage system., 'a fluid movement device configured to move fluid through the storage medium to heat the fluid and provide the heated fluid to a load system; and'}2. The thermal energy storage system of claim 1 , wherein the control system is configured to control a heated fluid discharge rate of the stored thermal energy during a first period of abundant ...

FUEL CELL ASSEMBLY

A fuel cell assembly comprising a plurality of fuel cell plates in a stack. The stack defines an air inlet face and/or an air outlet face; and two opposing engagement faces. The fuel cell assembly also comprises a detachable cover configured to releasably engage the two engagement faces in order to define an air chamber with the air inlet or outlet face. 1. A fuel cell assembly comprising: an air inlet face and/or an air outlet face; and', 'two opposing engagement faces; and, 'a plurality of fuel cell plates in a stack, the stack defininga detachable cover configured to releasably engage the two engagement faces in order to define an air chamber with the air inlet or outlet face.2. The fuel cell assembly of claim 1 , further comprising two rods having a non-circular cross-section claim 1 , wherein each rod extends alongside one of the engagement faces and is rotatable so as to releasably provide a seal between the detachable cover and the respective engagement face.3. The fuel cell assembly of claim 2 , wherein the rods are cam shaped in cross-section or circular with a flattened edge in cross-section.4. The fuel cell assembly of or claim 2 , wherein the detachable cover comprises recesses for receiving the rods.5. The fuel cell assembly of any preceding claim claim 2 , wherein the plurality of fuel cell plates each comprise two projections claim 2 , each projection associated with one of the two engagement faces claim 2 , and wherein the detachable cover is configured to releasably engage the projections.6. The fuel cell assembly of claim 5 , wherein the two projections extend the engagement face beyond the air inlet or outlet face.7. The fuel cell assembly of or claim 5 , wherein the two projections are deformable in response to rotation of a rod.8. The fuel cell assembly of claim 7 , wherein the projections are elastomeric.9. The fuel cell assembly of any one to claim 7 , as they depend directly or indirectly from claim 7 , wherein the detachable cover comprises ...

ADAPTIVE ELECTRICAL HEATER FOR FUEL CELL SYSTEMS

The present disclosure provides a fuel cell system comprising a hot box, an air tube, an electrical heater and a thermal sensor. The hot box may comprise a fuel cell stack having a plurality of fuel cell units joined together. Each fuel cell unit of the fuel cell stack unit has an anode, a cathode and an electrolyte sandwiched between the anode and cathode. An air tube having an upper end and lower end is configured to receive ambient air at a second inlet. The electrical heater is integrated within the air tube and configured to heat the fuel cell stack by introducing hot air at a cathode side of a plurality of fuel cell units. Further, the fuel system is configured to operate in different modes comprising a startup mode, a normal mode, a dump load mode and hot standby mode with the use of the integrated electrical heater. 1. A fuel cell system comprising:a hot box;an air tube having an upper end and a lower end, wherein the air tube is configured to receive ambient air at a second inlet, a first portion of said air tube is integrated within the hot box to form a hot zone, and a second portion of said air tube is resided outside the hotbox to form a cold zone, wherein the air tube further comprises an outlet having at least one slot at the upper end for supplying hot air into a fuel cell stack;an electrical heater integrated within the air tube, wherein the electrical heater heats the fuel cell stack by introducing hot air at a cathode side of a plurality of fuel cell units, wherein the hot air is uniformly distributed to each of the fuel cell unit from the plurality of fuel cells units; anda thermal sensor located in the conduit of the air tube to measure the air temperature at the outlet of the air tube.2. The fuel cell system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the hot box further comprises the fuel cell stack having the plurality of fuel cell units connected together claim 1 , wherein each fuel cell unit has an anode claim 1 , the cathode and an electrolyte ...

POLY-GENERATING FUEL CELL WITH THERMALLY BALANCING FUEL PROCESSING

A fuel cell system and methods are disclosed to co-produce electricity, heat, hydrogen fuel, and liquefied COby synergistically integrating one or more of a cryogenic air separation unit (ASU), a high temperature fuel cell, and a hydrogen separation unit (HSU). 17-. (canceled)8. The poly-generating fuel-cell system of claim 37 , wherein the source of oxygen comprises an electrolyzer cell; and wherein the poly-generating fuel-cell system further comprises a second high temperature fuel-cell stack for powering the electrolyzer cell.91. The poly-generating fuel-cell system of claim claim 37 , further comprising a heat exchanger which receives at least a portion of anode exhaust gases and heat and transfers the heat to the source of oxygen.10. The poly-generating fuel-cell system of claim 37 , further comprising a reciprocating pump configured to pump anode exhaust gases; and wherein the reciprocating pump operates with variable valve timing so as to proportionately control an amount of the anode exhaust gases recirculated to the anode claim 37 , and to humidify and pre-heat the hydrocarbon fuel delivered to the endothermic reformer.11. The poly-generating fuel-cell system of claim 10 , wherein the reciprocating pump comprises a piston-cylinder reciprocating chamber configured to intermittently pressurize individual charges fed to the high temperature fuel cell stack.12. The poly-generating fuel-cell system of claim 37 , further comprising a power/thermal management controller configured to balance fuel cell stack heat generation with a fuel processing heat sink.1335-. (canceled)36. The poly-generating fuel-cell system of claim 37 , wherein the hydrocarbon fuel is natural gas claim 37 , landfill gas claim 37 , or digester gas.38. The poly-generating fuel cell system of claim 37 , wherein output from the anode exhaust comprises heat and steam claim 37 , and wherein a hydrogen content of the steam is lower than a hydrogen content of the reformed fuel received from the ...

CARBON DIOXIDE REMOVAL FROM ANODE EXHAUST OF A FUEL CELL BY COOLING/CONDENSATION

A system for removing carbon dioxide from anode exhaust gas that has been compressed to form pressurized anode exhaust vapor includes a feed/effluent heat exchanger configured to cool the anode exhaust vapor to a first predetermined temperature and partially condense carbon dioxide in the anode exhaust vapor; a first vapor-liquid separator configured to receive an output of the feed/effluent heat exchanger and separate liquid carbon dioxide from uncondensed anode exhaust vapor; a feed/refrigerant heat exchanger configured to receive the uncondensed anode exhaust vapor from the first vapor-liquid separator, cool the uncondensed anode exhaust vapor to a second predetermined temperature, and condense carbon dioxide in the uncondensed anode exhaust vapor; a second vapor-liquid separator configured to receive an output of the feed/refrigerant heat exchanger and separate liquid carbon dioxide to form hydrogen rich, uncondensed anode exhaust vapor. 1. A system for removing carbon dioxide from anode exhaust gas that has been compressed to form pressurized anode exhaust vapor , the system comprising:a feed/effluent heat exchanger configured to cool the anode exhaust vapor to a first predetermined temperature and partially condense carbon dioxide in the pressurized anode exhaust vapor;a first vapor-liquid separator configured to receive an output of the feed/effluent heat exchanger and separate liquid carbon dioxide from uncondensed anode exhaust vapor;a feed/refrigerant heat exchanger configured to receive the uncondensed anode exhaust vapor from the first vapor-liquid separator, cool the uncondensed anode exhaust vapor to a second predetermined temperature, and condense additional carbon dioxide in the uncondensed anode exhaust vapor; anda second vapor-liquid separator configured to receive an output of the feed/refrigerant heat exchanger and separate liquid carbon dioxide to form hydrogen rich, uncondensed anode exhaust vapor.2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a ...

FLUID CONFLUENCE JOINT

At a position between a fuel offgas inlet portion and a fuel gas inlet portion in a main body portion in the facing direction where a first end faces a second end, a fluid confluence joint is provided with at least either one of (i) at least one step formed over a whole circumference of an inner wall of the main body portion by reducing the passage sectional area on a fuel gas passage portion side to be smaller than the passage sectional area on a confluence passage portion side, and (ii) at least one partition wall formed over the whole circumference so as to project inwardly from the inner wall of the main body portion. 1. A fluid confluence joint at which a fuel gas to be supplied to a fuel cell joins with a fuel offgas discharged from the fuel cell , the fluid confluence joint comprising a main body portion including a first end and a second end facing the first end , the second end having an opening formed to guide a fuel mixture of the fuel gas and the fuel offgas , the main body portion including (i) a confluence passage portion in which the fuel gas joins with the fuel offgas , the confluence passage portion having a circular passage section , and (ii) a fuel gas passage portion disposed on a side closer to the first end than the confluence passage portion , wherein the main body portion includes:(a) a fuel offgas inlet portion configured to cause the fuel offgas to flow into the confluence passage portion so that the fuel offgas swirls in the confluence passage portion;(b) a fuel gas inlet portion configured to cause the fuel gas to flow into the fuel gas passage portion; and (i) at least one step formed over a whole circumference of an inner wall of the main body portion by reducing a passage sectional area of the main body portion on a fuel gas passage portion side to be smaller than a passage sectional area of the main body portion on a confluence passage portion side, and', '(ii) at least one partition wall formed over the whole circumference so as to ...