Numerical investigations to determine the optimal operating conditions for 1 kW-class flat-tubular solid oxide fuel cell stack

摘要: Abstract In this study, a detailed three-dimensional numerical model is developed which simultaneously assimilates the transport processes, electrochemical and chemical reactions to optimize performance of 1 kW-class flat-tubular solid oxide fuel cell stack while operating on H2 pre-reformed methane fuels. The unique feature CFD (computational fluid dynamic) that it encompasses oxidation CO as well internal steam reforming including radiation heat transfer analysis in full stack. A validated with experiments performed in-house utilized explore optimal conditions by investigating effect pre-reforming rate, air/fuel inlet temperatures, oxidant utilizations radiative temperature distributions. results elucidated current density distributions can be regulated adjusting conversion pre-reformer. It also observed neglecting electro-oxidation modeling underestimate performance; whereas increasing increases performance. utilization established higher adversely affects due cathodic activation polarization losses. Radiation demonstrates curtails peak minimizes gradients components.