SOFC Integrated Multi-Mold Diesel Reformer

A diesel-fueled solid oxide fuel cell would be an attractive means of generating auxiliary electric power onboard highway trucks, large recreational vehicles, and mobile command posts (military and emergency responders). In order to retain the high efficiency inherent to the fuel cell system, the fuel processor or reformer must be able to make use of the heat and water produced by the fuel cell. However, this is not always possible due to operating transients and variable climatic conditions. Therefore, this project will develop a multi-mode reformer to maximize both operational flexibility and overall system efficiency. In this approach, a low energy plasma reformer will be designed for thermal integration with the solid oxide fuel cell. Heat and water vapor produced by operating the fuel cell will be available to convert the liquid diesel fuel into the light combustible gases required by the fuel cell. In Phase I, a compact low cost design will be developed and fabricated, and its performance will be mapped through the three envisioned operating modes. A target fuel cell system interface will be defined. Selected sample components will be produced for subsystem testing, and a manufacturing cost model will be prepared and used to modify the design. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: Solid oxide fuel cell power systems have a broad range of applications from stationary power plants to automobile and truck auxiliary power units. The high efficiency operation would consume less hydrocarbon fuel than conventional power generation devices and significantly reduce overall emissions.