Integrated fuel reformation and thermal management system for solid oxide fuel cell systems
US6485852B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 7, 2000 |
| Grant date | Nov 26, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 7, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02P20/129
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A compact integrated thermal management and fuel reformation system and method includes a thermally insulated wall forming an envelope having an interior chamber housing, a solid oxide fuel cell stack and a mixed mode heat exchanger. A recuperator having interior walls that are color graded to provide temperature zones effecting a positive temperature gradient in the direction of the solid oxide fuel cell stack is disposed within the chamber and close coupled to the fuel cell stack for absorbing radiation therefrom. The recuperator further heats the partially preheated oxidant gas and partially or fully reforms incoming fuel gas. Manifolds having oxidant and fuel channels for conducting reformed fuel and heated oxidant from the recuperator to fuel cell oxidant and fuel inlets are arranged to maximize fuel flow at the portions of each fuel cell adjacent the recuperator and to maximize oxidant flow near central portions of each fuel cell. A method for providing a tailored anode fuel stream is also provided.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.