CA2641747A1 - Enclosure system for a direct methanol fuel cell - Google Patents
Enclosure system for a direct methanol fuel cell Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2641747A1 CA2641747A1 CA2641747A CA2641747A CA2641747A1 CA 2641747 A1 CA2641747 A1 CA 2641747A1 CA 2641747 A CA2641747 A CA 2641747A CA 2641747 A CA2641747 A CA 2641747A CA 2641747 A1 CA2641747 A1 CA 2641747A1
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- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- pump
- chemical injection
- electric
- integrated chemical
- fuel cell
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
- H01M16/00—Structural combinations of different types of electrochemical generators
- H01M16/003—Structural combinations of different types of electrochemical generators of fuel cells with other electrochemical devices, e.g. capacitors, electrolysers
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17D—PIPE-LINE SYSTEMS; PIPE-LINES
- F17D3/00—Arrangements for supervising or controlling working operations
- F17D3/12—Arrangements for supervising or controlling working operations for injecting a composition into the line
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
- H01M8/00—Fuel cells; Manufacture thereof
- H01M8/04—Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids
- H01M8/04007—Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids related to heat exchange
- H01M8/04037—Electrical heating
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
- H01M8/00—Fuel cells; Manufacture thereof
- H01M8/04—Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids
- H01M8/04007—Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids related to heat exchange
- H01M8/04067—Heat exchange or temperature measuring elements, thermal insulation, e.g. heat pipes, heat pumps, fins
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
- H01M8/00—Fuel cells; Manufacture thereof
- H01M8/04—Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids
- H01M8/04223—Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids during start-up or shut-down; Depolarisation or activation, e.g. purging; Means for short-circuiting defective fuel cells
- H01M8/04253—Means for solving freezing problems
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
- H01M2250/00—Fuel cells for particular applications; Specific features of fuel cell system
- H01M2250/10—Fuel cells in stationary systems, e.g. emergency power source in plant
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
- H01M8/00—Fuel cells; Manufacture thereof
- H01M8/10—Fuel cells with solid electrolytes
- H01M8/1009—Fuel cells with solid electrolytes with one of the reactants being liquid, solid or liquid-charged
- H01M8/1011—Direct alcohol fuel cells [DAFC], e.g. direct methanol fuel cells [DMFC]
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02B—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO BUILDINGS, e.g. HOUSING, HOUSE APPLIANCES OR RELATED END-USER APPLICATIONS
- Y02B90/00—Enabling technologies or technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to GHG emissions mitigation
- Y02B90/10—Applications of fuel cells in buildings
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E60/00—Enabling technologies; Technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to GHG emissions mitigation
- Y02E60/30—Hydrogen technology
- Y02E60/50—Fuel cells
Abstract
The invention provides an improved method of injecting chemicals into pipelines or facilities that transport or process oil and natural gas at remote sites.
Electric power is generated from stored liquid methanol, using a direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) alone, or else a hybrid system using both DMFC and photovoltaic (PV) solar panel in combination. This electric power is then used to operate an electric pump to inject chemicals into the high-pressure pipeline at a specific controlled rate. This pump may be an electromagnetic linearly reciprocating solenoid type design, in order to consume less power than traditional rotary electric motor pumps. Surplus electric power produced may also be used for other local equipment, unrelated to the pump. This complete system results in far less operating expense and greenhouse gas emissions than the commonly used pneumatic pumps it replaces, and more reliable year-round operation compared to solar only.
Electric power is generated from stored liquid methanol, using a direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) alone, or else a hybrid system using both DMFC and photovoltaic (PV) solar panel in combination. This electric power is then used to operate an electric pump to inject chemicals into the high-pressure pipeline at a specific controlled rate. This pump may be an electromagnetic linearly reciprocating solenoid type design, in order to consume less power than traditional rotary electric motor pumps. Surplus electric power produced may also be used for other local equipment, unrelated to the pump. This complete system results in far less operating expense and greenhouse gas emissions than the commonly used pneumatic pumps it replaces, and more reliable year-round operation compared to solar only.
Description
File Reference #
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Natural gas wells are almost always located in remote "off-grid" locations, which are not economical to connect to normal electrical power distribution systems. In order to prevent the formation of ice-like hydrate within the piping and valves (especially at pressure-drop locations such as the wellhead choke), free water is removed (separated), and then a chemical (typically methanol) is injected by pump. Other similar applications would include injection of corrosion inhibitor, scale inhibitor, paraffin inhibitor, biocide, demulsifier, and others, as typically required in both natural gas and oil production.
Common pneumatic injection pumps are typically used for this purpose, driven by venting some of the natural gas from the high-pressure line, into the atmosphere. In addition to being a gross waste of the potential heating value energy contained in the vented gas, this has some other negative effects, including loss of gas sales revenue, and increased greenhouse gas emissions.
Also, in the event that sour gas (containing poisonous H2S) is the only gas available at a given location, venting it creates a more immediate safety hazard to all life in the area.
Recently, some sites have started using solar photovoltaic (PV) power generation systems, along with electric methanol pumps using rotational-type electric motors, and batch-injection timers. Unfortunately, the amount of methanol injection required is usually higher during the winter, just at the time when solar systems produce the least power (due to reduced daylight and poor low-temperature battery performance). Also, since PV cells only produce the rated power under "peak sunlight" conditions, this means that a large number solar panels are needed to collect enough power to last through the night, and also a large number of batteries must be used to store power during the "off-peak" times. The December/January average "peak sunlight" is limited to 2-3 hours per day throughout Southern Alberta (even less in the north, and British Columbia), assuming the weather is "average". Long periods of cloud or snowfall can cause the solar PV
system to shut down for lack of power.
If the pump stops injecting methanol, the main gas pipeline will stop flowing due to hydrate formation, resulting in lost production and damaged equipment. It is not acceptable or
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Natural gas wells are almost always located in remote "off-grid" locations, which are not economical to connect to normal electrical power distribution systems. In order to prevent the formation of ice-like hydrate within the piping and valves (especially at pressure-drop locations such as the wellhead choke), free water is removed (separated), and then a chemical (typically methanol) is injected by pump. Other similar applications would include injection of corrosion inhibitor, scale inhibitor, paraffin inhibitor, biocide, demulsifier, and others, as typically required in both natural gas and oil production.
Common pneumatic injection pumps are typically used for this purpose, driven by venting some of the natural gas from the high-pressure line, into the atmosphere. In addition to being a gross waste of the potential heating value energy contained in the vented gas, this has some other negative effects, including loss of gas sales revenue, and increased greenhouse gas emissions.
Also, in the event that sour gas (containing poisonous H2S) is the only gas available at a given location, venting it creates a more immediate safety hazard to all life in the area.
Recently, some sites have started using solar photovoltaic (PV) power generation systems, along with electric methanol pumps using rotational-type electric motors, and batch-injection timers. Unfortunately, the amount of methanol injection required is usually higher during the winter, just at the time when solar systems produce the least power (due to reduced daylight and poor low-temperature battery performance). Also, since PV cells only produce the rated power under "peak sunlight" conditions, this means that a large number solar panels are needed to collect enough power to last through the night, and also a large number of batteries must be used to store power during the "off-peak" times. The December/January average "peak sunlight" is limited to 2-3 hours per day throughout Southern Alberta (even less in the north, and British Columbia), assuming the weather is "average". Long periods of cloud or snowfall can cause the solar PV
system to shut down for lack of power.
If the pump stops injecting methanol, the main gas pipeline will stop flowing due to hydrate formation, resulting in lost production and damaged equipment. It is not acceptable or
2 File Reference #
economic to send equipment and personnel out to these remote locations to thaw hydrated gas lines on a regular basis, especially in the winter. Reliability is extremely important.
The invention will consist of a system using an electric methanol injection pump that is run by reliable power, generated from the DMFC "on-demand". This will be intended for continuous, unattended operation in remote areas with a wide variety of weather (specifically for winter conditions). This type of fuel cell is distinctly advantageous from other types, in that it converts liquid methanol at atmospheric pressure directly into electricity, without having to create or store high-pressure hydrogen. Since there is usually a large tank of liquid methanol on site already (to inject), the system will merely use a small portion (typically 0.4%) of this volume to create the required power in the fuel cell (or else draw from a much smaller separate tank). The heat by-product will serve to keep the system and batteries warm, to improve operation efficiency and lifetime cycle. Optionally a hybrid power system may be used, in which power is supplied by both the DMFC fuel cell and PV solar panel, in order to increase the operational lifetime of the DMFC.
For the lower-pressure injection ranges, an electromagnetic solenoid-type pump design appears to have great potential, in terms of being simple, economic, leak-free, and low-maintenance (no shaft seals). It is also uniquely easy to set a specific constant flow rate using a simple control panel, without having to resort to stroke counting. It is very energy-efficient and has a large turndown ratio (max to min flow range with a given piston size), which works nicely with the intended constant-delivery method. This is much better than the method of timed batch-injecting, followed by a long period of no flow, as is often required by rotational-type electric motors (hydrates can form in the pipeline before the next batch is injected).
Multiple solenoid-pumps in series could boost pressures as needed, and there is no risk of damage or over-pressure, in the case where the pump stalls (i.e. valve shutoff). Normal rotational-type electric motor pumps (or other commercially-available pump types) may be required for the higher-pressure ranges, or for other circumstances.
The inherent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions provided by adopting this technology would provide improved air quality, while helping clients increase production of natural gas. This will improve public relations, especially on a "good-neighbor" scale with local landowners who need to be satisfied prior to drilling new gas wells. Also, governmental legislation (or industry self-
economic to send equipment and personnel out to these remote locations to thaw hydrated gas lines on a regular basis, especially in the winter. Reliability is extremely important.
The invention will consist of a system using an electric methanol injection pump that is run by reliable power, generated from the DMFC "on-demand". This will be intended for continuous, unattended operation in remote areas with a wide variety of weather (specifically for winter conditions). This type of fuel cell is distinctly advantageous from other types, in that it converts liquid methanol at atmospheric pressure directly into electricity, without having to create or store high-pressure hydrogen. Since there is usually a large tank of liquid methanol on site already (to inject), the system will merely use a small portion (typically 0.4%) of this volume to create the required power in the fuel cell (or else draw from a much smaller separate tank). The heat by-product will serve to keep the system and batteries warm, to improve operation efficiency and lifetime cycle. Optionally a hybrid power system may be used, in which power is supplied by both the DMFC fuel cell and PV solar panel, in order to increase the operational lifetime of the DMFC.
For the lower-pressure injection ranges, an electromagnetic solenoid-type pump design appears to have great potential, in terms of being simple, economic, leak-free, and low-maintenance (no shaft seals). It is also uniquely easy to set a specific constant flow rate using a simple control panel, without having to resort to stroke counting. It is very energy-efficient and has a large turndown ratio (max to min flow range with a given piston size), which works nicely with the intended constant-delivery method. This is much better than the method of timed batch-injecting, followed by a long period of no flow, as is often required by rotational-type electric motors (hydrates can form in the pipeline before the next batch is injected).
Multiple solenoid-pumps in series could boost pressures as needed, and there is no risk of damage or over-pressure, in the case where the pump stalls (i.e. valve shutoff). Normal rotational-type electric motor pumps (or other commercially-available pump types) may be required for the higher-pressure ranges, or for other circumstances.
The inherent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions provided by adopting this technology would provide improved air quality, while helping clients increase production of natural gas. This will improve public relations, especially on a "good-neighbor" scale with local landowners who need to be satisfied prior to drilling new gas wells. Also, governmental legislation (or industry self-
3 File Reference #
regulatory guidelines) may eventually lead to additional client savings in the form of "carbon-credits". Using this type of DMFC pump system (compared to pneumatic pump venting natural gas, which is mostly methane) would reduce C02-equivalent (C02e) emissions by a ratio of about 13,650:1. This is due to the C02e (equivalent) rating of methane being 21 times higher than C02, and also the relative energy efficiency (650 times higher) of the direct methanol fuel cell, relative to wasting the gas by venting.
regulatory guidelines) may eventually lead to additional client savings in the form of "carbon-credits". Using this type of DMFC pump system (compared to pneumatic pump venting natural gas, which is mostly methane) would reduce C02-equivalent (C02e) emissions by a ratio of about 13,650:1. This is due to the C02e (equivalent) rating of methane being 21 times higher than C02, and also the relative energy efficiency (650 times higher) of the direct methanol fuel cell, relative to wasting the gas by venting.
4 , _ _ _ File Reference #
PRIOR ART
Chemical injection systems of various types of been known and used for many years, some patent applications of which are listed below.
Pneumatic (gas powered, venting):
CA2215652 MERCER, MARK A.G.
CA2411214 MCKEARY, LEONARD E.
Pneumatic (gas powered, non-venting / pipeline pressure drop required) CA2344632 GRIMES, EDWARD C. et al Electric (grid power, or solar powered):
CA2540400 BURNS, PATRICK J., SR. et al CA2166076 MARSHALL, STEPHEN E. et al Although the preceding prior art are related to the field of the invention, none use the same method, or necessarily meet the same design goals. To the best of the author's knowledge, there is no prior art for a DMFC powered pump system.
Direct methanol fuel cell power systems are already well known, and are recently commercially available. Similarly, electromagnetic solenoid pumps are also known. However neither of these devices is currently used in this well site chemical injection application, either separately or in combination with each other as proposed. The invention teaches that a complete "stand-alone" system including these items and other specially designed components (in the configurations claimed) provide a unique and improved solution to an existing industrial and environmental problem.
File Reference #
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The invention is a self-contained system comprised of an electric power generating system, an electric power storage system (batteries), and an electric chemical injection pump system, housed together in an insulated weatherproof enclosure. The power generating system consists of a direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) alone, or else a hybrid system using both DMFC and optional photovoltaic (PV) solar panel in combination, plus the control systems as needed to regulate the power generated to match the recharging requirements of the batteries. The electric power storage system would typically consist of one or more common electrochemical batteries, to provide a power reserve and enable better matching of power generation to load (power consumption). The injection pump system uses this power (supplied via the recharged batteries) to inject chemical into a pipeline at a particular flow rate and pressure, as determined by a pump controller. The injection pump may be either a type that uses a conventional rotary electric motor, or preferably an electromagnetic linearly reciprocating solenoid type. The pump controller may be manually adjusted by a local operator, or else optionally controlled remotely by an electric set-point signal.
If the injection chemical happens to be methanol of suitable quality, it may be optionally connected to the supply line to the DMFC in lieu of having a separate methanol supply. Also, in the event that the waste heat generated by the DMFC is not sufficient to keep the inside of the enclosure warm enough for correct operation during very cold weather, an optional automatic electric heater may be added.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The invention is illustrated schematically in figure 1. Optional or alternate components and configurations are shown in the clouded areas.
The injection chemical storage tank 1 contains the liquid chemical, typically at atmospheric pressure in an amount suitable for sustained remote, un-attended injection over a long period of time (typically a month or longer). Chemical is fed to the injection pump 3 via a suction tube 2.
The injection pump 3 pumps the chemical into the high-pressure pipeline 5 via discharge tube 4.
File Reference #
Methanol of suitable quality is stored in a small methanol cartridge or container 7, typically at atmospheric pressure in an amount suitable for sustained remote, un-attended operation of the direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) 10 over a long period of time (typically a month or longer). If the injection chemical happens to be methanol of suitable quality, it may be optionally connected to the supply line to the DMFC via tube 8, in lieu of having a separate methanol supply. Methanol is fed to the DMFC 10 via tube 9.
The direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) 10 combines the liquid methanol plus oxygen from the air in a reaction that produces direct-current (DC) electric power, plus by-product waste streams that typically include water vapor, a small amount of carbon dioxide, and hot air. It also contains an integral charge control system (not shown) in order to determine and control the amount of power produced to match the demand of the batteries. The DC power is conveyed to the batteries 19 via an electrically conductive wiring system 18. Cold air 13 is drawn into the insulated enclosure 6, and into the fuel cell via a cold air inlet vent 12, under the action of the electric fuel cell air fan 11, which is integrated into and controlled by the fuel cell. The waste water vapor and carbon dioxide are conveyed to the outside of the insulated enclosure via tube 14, which preferably exits near the warm air outlet vent 16, in order to prevent freezing off at the tip. Hot air 15 from the fuel cell circulates freely within the insulated enclosure, prior to exiting via the warm air outlet vent. This hot air also helps to keep the enclosed equipment above the minimum operating temperature during cold weather. A fuel cell control panel 17 on the exterior surface of the insulated enclosure allows for operator control and status indication without opening the insulated enclosure.
In the event that the waste heat generated by the DMFC is not sufficient to keep the inside of the enclosure warm enough for correct operation during very cold weather (or if the ambient weather is overly hot), an optional automatic electric heater/cooler 23 may be added. This heater/cooler would have a built-in thermostat, set to maintain the temperature of the equipment inside the insulated enclosure as needed for correct operation. It would not consume power unless additional heating or cooling is required.
The optional photovoltaic (PV) solar panel 24 (mounted outside the insulated enclosure) converts solar energy from the sun into direct-current (DC) electric power. A
solar charge control File Reference #
system 25 is optionally included in order to determine and control the amount of power produced to match the demand of the batteries, and set to provide as much power as the available sunlight conditions will allow, prior to the direct methanol fuel system having to do so. This permits the fuel cell system to operate only when needed, thus preserving its longevity, increasing reliability, and reducing methanol consumption. The DC power is conveyed to the batteries 19 via an electrically conductive wiring system 18.
The DC electric power is conveyed from the batteries 19 to the pump controller 20 via an electrically conductive wiring system 18. This pump controller allows for operator control and status indication without opening the insulated enclosure. In the case of the pump being of an electromagnetic linearly reciprocating solenoid type design, the pump controller provides operator-adjustable electrical pulse frequency modulation, in order to cause the pump to stroke at the same frequency, thus controlling the chemical flow rate. In the case of the pump being a traditional rotary electric motor pump, the pump controller provides a timer function, such that the pump runs at full speed for a set period of time, then shuts off for a set period of time, thus determining the average flow rate as required. In either case, the electrical power is conveyed from the pump controller to the pump via an electrically conductive wiring system 18.
Optionally the pump controller can be set to accept a remote electric set-point signal via remote signal wire 21, which would over-ride the local settings and enable the pump rate to be determined by another device or remote operator via a communication system interface.
Surplus power may optionally be supplied to external devices in multiple voltage levels, via the external power receptacle 22. Similarly, power can be collected from external power sources if needed and available.
PRIOR ART
Chemical injection systems of various types of been known and used for many years, some patent applications of which are listed below.
Pneumatic (gas powered, venting):
CA2215652 MERCER, MARK A.G.
CA2411214 MCKEARY, LEONARD E.
Pneumatic (gas powered, non-venting / pipeline pressure drop required) CA2344632 GRIMES, EDWARD C. et al Electric (grid power, or solar powered):
CA2540400 BURNS, PATRICK J., SR. et al CA2166076 MARSHALL, STEPHEN E. et al Although the preceding prior art are related to the field of the invention, none use the same method, or necessarily meet the same design goals. To the best of the author's knowledge, there is no prior art for a DMFC powered pump system.
Direct methanol fuel cell power systems are already well known, and are recently commercially available. Similarly, electromagnetic solenoid pumps are also known. However neither of these devices is currently used in this well site chemical injection application, either separately or in combination with each other as proposed. The invention teaches that a complete "stand-alone" system including these items and other specially designed components (in the configurations claimed) provide a unique and improved solution to an existing industrial and environmental problem.
File Reference #
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The invention is a self-contained system comprised of an electric power generating system, an electric power storage system (batteries), and an electric chemical injection pump system, housed together in an insulated weatherproof enclosure. The power generating system consists of a direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) alone, or else a hybrid system using both DMFC and optional photovoltaic (PV) solar panel in combination, plus the control systems as needed to regulate the power generated to match the recharging requirements of the batteries. The electric power storage system would typically consist of one or more common electrochemical batteries, to provide a power reserve and enable better matching of power generation to load (power consumption). The injection pump system uses this power (supplied via the recharged batteries) to inject chemical into a pipeline at a particular flow rate and pressure, as determined by a pump controller. The injection pump may be either a type that uses a conventional rotary electric motor, or preferably an electromagnetic linearly reciprocating solenoid type. The pump controller may be manually adjusted by a local operator, or else optionally controlled remotely by an electric set-point signal.
If the injection chemical happens to be methanol of suitable quality, it may be optionally connected to the supply line to the DMFC in lieu of having a separate methanol supply. Also, in the event that the waste heat generated by the DMFC is not sufficient to keep the inside of the enclosure warm enough for correct operation during very cold weather, an optional automatic electric heater may be added.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The invention is illustrated schematically in figure 1. Optional or alternate components and configurations are shown in the clouded areas.
The injection chemical storage tank 1 contains the liquid chemical, typically at atmospheric pressure in an amount suitable for sustained remote, un-attended injection over a long period of time (typically a month or longer). Chemical is fed to the injection pump 3 via a suction tube 2.
The injection pump 3 pumps the chemical into the high-pressure pipeline 5 via discharge tube 4.
File Reference #
Methanol of suitable quality is stored in a small methanol cartridge or container 7, typically at atmospheric pressure in an amount suitable for sustained remote, un-attended operation of the direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) 10 over a long period of time (typically a month or longer). If the injection chemical happens to be methanol of suitable quality, it may be optionally connected to the supply line to the DMFC via tube 8, in lieu of having a separate methanol supply. Methanol is fed to the DMFC 10 via tube 9.
The direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) 10 combines the liquid methanol plus oxygen from the air in a reaction that produces direct-current (DC) electric power, plus by-product waste streams that typically include water vapor, a small amount of carbon dioxide, and hot air. It also contains an integral charge control system (not shown) in order to determine and control the amount of power produced to match the demand of the batteries. The DC power is conveyed to the batteries 19 via an electrically conductive wiring system 18. Cold air 13 is drawn into the insulated enclosure 6, and into the fuel cell via a cold air inlet vent 12, under the action of the electric fuel cell air fan 11, which is integrated into and controlled by the fuel cell. The waste water vapor and carbon dioxide are conveyed to the outside of the insulated enclosure via tube 14, which preferably exits near the warm air outlet vent 16, in order to prevent freezing off at the tip. Hot air 15 from the fuel cell circulates freely within the insulated enclosure, prior to exiting via the warm air outlet vent. This hot air also helps to keep the enclosed equipment above the minimum operating temperature during cold weather. A fuel cell control panel 17 on the exterior surface of the insulated enclosure allows for operator control and status indication without opening the insulated enclosure.
In the event that the waste heat generated by the DMFC is not sufficient to keep the inside of the enclosure warm enough for correct operation during very cold weather (or if the ambient weather is overly hot), an optional automatic electric heater/cooler 23 may be added. This heater/cooler would have a built-in thermostat, set to maintain the temperature of the equipment inside the insulated enclosure as needed for correct operation. It would not consume power unless additional heating or cooling is required.
The optional photovoltaic (PV) solar panel 24 (mounted outside the insulated enclosure) converts solar energy from the sun into direct-current (DC) electric power. A
solar charge control File Reference #
system 25 is optionally included in order to determine and control the amount of power produced to match the demand of the batteries, and set to provide as much power as the available sunlight conditions will allow, prior to the direct methanol fuel system having to do so. This permits the fuel cell system to operate only when needed, thus preserving its longevity, increasing reliability, and reducing methanol consumption. The DC power is conveyed to the batteries 19 via an electrically conductive wiring system 18.
The DC electric power is conveyed from the batteries 19 to the pump controller 20 via an electrically conductive wiring system 18. This pump controller allows for operator control and status indication without opening the insulated enclosure. In the case of the pump being of an electromagnetic linearly reciprocating solenoid type design, the pump controller provides operator-adjustable electrical pulse frequency modulation, in order to cause the pump to stroke at the same frequency, thus controlling the chemical flow rate. In the case of the pump being a traditional rotary electric motor pump, the pump controller provides a timer function, such that the pump runs at full speed for a set period of time, then shuts off for a set period of time, thus determining the average flow rate as required. In either case, the electrical power is conveyed from the pump controller to the pump via an electrically conductive wiring system 18.
Optionally the pump controller can be set to accept a remote electric set-point signal via remote signal wire 21, which would over-ride the local settings and enable the pump rate to be determined by another device or remote operator via a communication system interface.
Surplus power may optionally be supplied to external devices in multiple voltage levels, via the external power receptacle 22. Similarly, power can be collected from external power sources if needed and available.
Claims (11)
PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:
1. An integrated chemical injection system comprising:
a) an electric power generating system b) an electric power storage system c) an electric chemical injection pump system
a) an electric power generating system b) an electric power storage system c) an electric chemical injection pump system
2. The integrated chemical injection system of claim 1 wherein the electric power generating system is a direct methanol fuel cell with charge control system.
3. The integrated chemical injection system of claim 1 wherein the electric power generating system is a hybrid system consisting of a direct methanol fuel cell with charge control system, in combination with a photovoltaic (PV) solar panel and solar charge control system.
4. The integrated chemical injection system of claim 2 or claim 3 wherein the electric chemical injection pump system is an electromagnetic linearly reciprocating solenoid type design, and the pump controller provides operator-adjustable electrical pulse frequency modulation, in order to cause the pump to stroke at the same frequency, thus controlling the chemical flow rate.
5. The integrated chemical injection system of claim 2 or claim 3 wherein the electric chemical injection pump system is a traditional rotary electric motor pump, and the pump controller provides a timer function, such that the pump runs at full speed for a set period of time, then shuts off for a set period of time, thus determining the average flow rate as required.
6. The integrated chemical injection system of claim 2 or claim 3 wherein the waste hot air from the fuel cell is used in combination with an insulated weatherproof enclosure to keep the enclosed equipment above the minimum operating temperature as required.
7. The integrated chemical injection system of claim 2 or claim 3 wherein an automatic electric heater/cooler with a temperature control system is used in combination with an insulated weatherproof enclosure to keep the enclosed equipment within the correct system operating temperature range as required.
8. The integrated chemical injection system of claim 2 or claim 3 wherein the waste water vapor and carbon dioxide are conveyed to the outside of the insulated weatherproof enclosure via a tube which exits near the warm air outlet vent, in order to prevent freezing off at the tip.
9. The integrated chemical injection system of claim 2 or claim 3 wherein the pump controller can be set to accept a remote electric set-point signal via remote signal wire, which would over-ride the local settings and enable the pump rate to be determined by another device or remote operator via a communication system interface.
10. The integrated chemical injection system of claim 2 or claim 3 wherein surplus system power is supplied to external devices in one or more voltage levels, via an external power receptacle.
11. The integrated chemical injection system of claim 2 or claim 3 wherein power is collected from external power sources in one or more voltage levels, via an external power receptacle.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2641747A CA2641747A1 (en) | 2008-10-16 | 2008-10-16 | Enclosure system for a direct methanol fuel cell |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2641747A CA2641747A1 (en) | 2008-10-16 | 2008-10-16 | Enclosure system for a direct methanol fuel cell |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2641747A1 true CA2641747A1 (en) | 2010-04-16 |
Family
ID=42110373
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2641747A Abandoned CA2641747A1 (en) | 2008-10-16 | 2008-10-16 | Enclosure system for a direct methanol fuel cell |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2641747A1 (en) |
Cited By (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2017059515A1 (en) * | 2015-10-08 | 2017-04-13 | 1304338 Alberta Ltd. | Method of producing heavy oil using a fuel cell |
| CN108392099A (en) * | 2018-06-04 | 2018-08-14 | 平顶山市迈思达机械设备制造有限公司 | A kind of electric baking pan auto-supply machine |
| US10968725B2 (en) | 2016-02-11 | 2021-04-06 | 1304338 Alberta Ltd. | Method of extracting coal bed methane using carbon dioxide |
| US11473021B2 (en) | 2015-12-07 | 2022-10-18 | 1304338 Alberta Ltd. | Upgrading oil using supercritical fluids |
| US11866395B2 (en) | 2018-03-07 | 2024-01-09 | 1304338 Alberta Ltd. | Production of petrochemical feedstocks and products using a fuel cell |
-
2008
- 2008-10-16 CA CA2641747A patent/CA2641747A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (8)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2017059515A1 (en) * | 2015-10-08 | 2017-04-13 | 1304338 Alberta Ltd. | Method of producing heavy oil using a fuel cell |
| US10787891B2 (en) | 2015-10-08 | 2020-09-29 | 1304338 Alberta Ltd. | Method of producing heavy oil using a fuel cell |
| US11149531B2 (en) | 2015-10-08 | 2021-10-19 | 1304342 Alberta Ltd. | Producing pressurized and heated fluids using a fuel cell |
| US11473021B2 (en) | 2015-12-07 | 2022-10-18 | 1304338 Alberta Ltd. | Upgrading oil using supercritical fluids |
| US10968725B2 (en) | 2016-02-11 | 2021-04-06 | 1304338 Alberta Ltd. | Method of extracting coal bed methane using carbon dioxide |
| US11866395B2 (en) | 2018-03-07 | 2024-01-09 | 1304338 Alberta Ltd. | Production of petrochemical feedstocks and products using a fuel cell |
| CN108392099A (en) * | 2018-06-04 | 2018-08-14 | 平顶山市迈思达机械设备制造有限公司 | A kind of electric baking pan auto-supply machine |
| CN108392099B (en) * | 2018-06-04 | 2024-02-27 | 河南迈思达机械设备有限公司 | Automatic oil feeder of electric baking pan |
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Effective date: 20131015 |
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| FZDE | Dead |
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