Compact, Lightweight, Power-Dense, Integrated Fuel Cell System

Precision Combustion, Inc. (PCI) has developed a breakthrough technology enabling a new logistics-fueled, high efficiency all-electric power and propulsion (PnP) system with potential to improve mission range and logistics for Navy’s UAS platforms and others. Based upon a high energy density fuel cell power system that can operate on logistics fuels, the technology offers multiple advances for UAS compared to current IC engine. PCI successfully operated solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) at 0.5 – 2 kW scales on high sulfur Jet fuels, for over 500 hours. Building on these results, PCI in Phase I has determined the feasibility of a JP-5 fueled, complete SOFC power generator design that will meet the topic’s requirements and weight targets. System optimization via process simulation software was completed to minimize components and sizing while maintaining high system efficiency and good thermal and flow balancing. The model was validated via demonstration of a standalone 1 kW fuel cell system prototype. During Phase II, a lightweight prototype will be fabricated and its functionality will be demonstrated. Scalability of the system will be assessed. During a Phase III, the fuel cell system will be further matured, with ruggedization and environmental compliance.