Fuel cell system with improved starting capability
US6410175B1 · kind B1 · utility
15Cited by
10References
38Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 12, 1998 |
| Grant date | Jun 25, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 12, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E60/50
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A method of commencing operation of a fuel cell system which includes a fuel reformer is provided. During a start-up period, the same fuel which is used in the feedstock to the reformer is directed to at least a portion of the fuel cells in the system. These fuel cells provide output power by direct oxidation of the fuel, at least until the reformer is operational, producing a hydrogen-containing gas stream suitable for the fuel cells. Thus, useful output power can be obtained from the system without the delay typically associated with start-up of the reformer.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.