JP5324812B2 - Fuel cell module - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a fuel cell module, and more particularly to a solid oxide fuel cell module having a cylindrical structure.

In a conventional fuel cell having a cylindrical structure, for example, a solid oxide fuel cell (hereinafter referred to as “SOFC”), a plurality of cylindrical fuel cell tubes having fuel cells formed on the surface thereof are used. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1).
The fuel battery cell tubes are arranged side by side on a plurality of straight lines extending in parallel. For example, a total of 100 fuel battery cell tubes are provided by arranging five rows in which 20 fuel cell tube tubes are arranged.

A header for supplying fuel to the fuel cell tube is disposed at one end of these fuel cell tubes, and a header for injecting fuel discharged from the fuel cell tube is disposed at the other end. Yes.
These headers are provided with a thin plate tube plate for sealing that separates the flow path between the air and fuel supplied to the fuel cell tube and supports the fuel cell tube.
Japanese Patent No. 3727906

  However, in the fuel cell module described in Patent Document 1 described above, since a plurality of fuel cell tubes are arranged in a matrix, a large bending stress is applied to the end portion of the thin sheet tube for sealing that supports the fuel cell tubes. Had occurred. Therefore, there is a problem that it is difficult to reduce the thickness of the sealing thin tube sheet.

  On the other hand, since a plurality of fuel cell tubes are arranged in a matrix, an auxiliary for supporting the fuel cell tubes used when assembling the cells including the attachment of the fuel cell tubes to the thin sheet tube plate for sealing, etc. The structure of the support jig was limited, and there was a problem that cell assembly was difficult. Furthermore, there has been a problem that after the cell is assembled, it is necessary to devise a method for removing the above-mentioned jig without damaging the fuel cell tube or the like.

  Moreover, since the above-mentioned header and the fuel piping through which the fuel flows are welded and joined, there is a problem that it takes time to disassemble and inspect the fuel cell module.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a fuel cell module that can be reduced in weight and can be easily assembled and inspected.

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides the following means.
A fuel cell module according to the present invention includes a plurality of fuel cell tubes arranged in a single row with a plurality of fuel cells formed on the surface, and one end of the fuel cell tube being fitted tightly. A first fuel chamber for supplying fuel gas supplied from the outside into the fuel cell tube; and a second tube plate for tightly fitting the other end of the fuel cell tube. And a fuel pipe through which the fuel gas flows, connected to at least one of the second fuel chamber for discharging the fuel gas flowing out from the fuel cell pipe to the outside, and the first fuel chamber and the second fuel chamber. When the cartridge with the said fuel to both single column and axial direction of the battery cell tube adjacent to each other in the vertical direction a plurality of arranged, the said fuel pipe and connected to the first fuel chamber and the 2 at least one of the fuel chambers and the front An interference fit is established between the fuel pipe and at least one of the first fuel chamber and the second fuel chamber and another first fuel chamber or second adjacent to the first fuel chamber and the second fuel chamber. A connection pipe extending to the fuel chamber side is provided, and the connection pipe is fitted into a fuel gas supply port formed in the other first fuel chamber or a fuel gas discharge port formed in the second fuel chamber. It is characterized by that.

According to the present invention, since the plurality of fuel battery cell tubes are arranged in a single row, in other words, arranged in a substantially same straight line, the plurality of fuel battery cell tubes are arranged in a double row and In comparison, the first tube plate and the second tube plate can be made thinner.
That is, as compared with the case where a plurality of fuel battery cell tubes are arranged in a double row, the length of the first tube plate and the second tube plate in the direction intersecting the direction in which the single row extends is shortened. be able to. Therefore, when supporting the same number of fuel battery cell tubes, the first tube plate and the second tube plate having a thinner thickness can be supported.

  On the other hand, since the plurality of fuel battery cell tubes are arranged in a single row, the fuel cell tube can be supported from both sides when assembled with the fuel cell tube, the first fuel chamber, and the second fuel chamber. Therefore, as compared with the case where a plurality of fuel battery cell tubes whose adjacent fuel cell tube interferes with support are arranged in a double row, assembly is facilitated.

Further, since the plurality of fuel battery cell tubes are arranged in a single row, when assembling the fuel cell tube, the first fuel chamber, and the second fuel chamber, the fuel cell tube is placed horizontally, that is, horizontally. It can arrange | position so that it may extend.
That is, when a plurality of fuel battery cell tubes are arranged in a double row, the fuel cell tube extends vertically, that is, vertically when assembling the fuel cell tube, the first fuel chamber, and the second fuel chamber. However, since a plurality of fuel cell tubes are arranged in a single row, the fuel cell tubes can be assembled in a horizontal position that can be easily supported. .

Further , according to the present invention, disassembly during repair of the fuel cell module is facilitated by tightly fitting between the first fuel chamber and the fuel pipe or between the second fuel chamber and the fuel pipe.
That is, compared with the method of welding between the first fuel chamber and the fuel pipe, etc., the method of interference fitting makes it easy to separate the first fuel chamber and the fuel pipe. Therefore, it is possible to easily repair the fuel cell module that needs to separate the first fuel chamber and the fuel pipe or separate the second fuel chamber and the fuel pipe.

Further , according to the present invention, in the cartridges arranged side by side, since the connection pipe extending from one first fuel chamber or the like is tightly fitted to the other adjacent first fuel chamber or the like, the cartridges are arranged side by side. The clearance between the formed cartridges can be reduced.
Furthermore, since the adjacent first fuel chambers and the like are communicated with each other by the connection pipe, the number of fuel pipes connected to the first fuel chamber and the like can be reduced. That is, by connecting the fuel pipe to one first fuel chamber or the like, all the first fuel chambers and the like are communicated with the fuel pipe via the connection pipe. Therefore, the number of fuel pipes can be reduced as compared with a method in which fuel pipes are individually connected to all the first fuel chambers.

Further, the fuel cell module of the present invention has a plurality of fuel cell tubes arranged in a single row with a plurality of fuel cells formed on the surface, and one end of the fuel cell tube is an interference fit. A first fuel chamber for supplying fuel gas supplied from the outside into the fuel cell tube, and a second tube plate in which the other end of the fuel cell tube is tightly fitted And is connected to at least one of the second fuel chamber and the second fuel chamber that discharges the fuel gas flowing out from the fuel cell pipe to the outside, and the fuel gas circulates. and the fuel pipe, the cartridge having the said a plurality positioned adjacent to each other in a direction perpendicular to both of the single column and the axial direction of the fuel cell tube, wherein the fuel pipe is arranged adjacent to each other a plurality of said first fuel chamber and each other At least one of the plurality of the second fuel chamber disposed adjacent to a plurality thereof extends through an adjacent direction of each fuel chamber, communicating with the first fuel chamber and the second fuel chamber and through The fuel pipe is tightly fitted to a fuel gas supply port formed in the first fuel chamber or a fuel gas discharge port formed in the second fuel chamber. .

  According to the present invention, in the cartridges arranged side by side, the fuel pipe passes through all the first fuel chambers and the like, and is tightly fitted in the first fuel chambers. The clearance can be reduced.

  On the other hand, since the communication hole is formed in the fuel pipe, the number of fuel pipes connected to the first fuel chamber or the like can be reduced. In other words, since all the first fuel chambers and the like are communicated with the fuel pipes through the communication holes, the number of fuel pipes is reduced as compared with the method in which the fuel pipes are individually connected to all the first fuel chambers. be able to.

  Furthermore, since the fuel pipe penetrates all the first fuel chambers, the rigidity of the wall surface in the first fuel chamber can be increased. That is, as compared with the case where the first fuel chambers are simply arranged side by side, the fuel pipes are tightly fitted to the first fuel chambers, so that the first fuel chambers arranged side by side are integrated, Stiffness is increased.

  In the above invention, at least one of the first fuel chamber and the second fuel chamber is divided into two parts, an inner half part on the side close to the fuel cell tube and an outer half part on the far side. It is desirable.

  According to the present invention, the upper part of the first fuel chamber or the like can be opened by attaching the outer half part later from the inner half part and the outer half part constituting the first fuel chamber or the like. Therefore, handling of jigs used during assembly and inspection of the fuel cell module, that is, handling is facilitated.

  In the above invention, there is provided a flange that protrudes outward from the inner half and the outer half, and is used for joining the inner half and the outer half, and a support that supports the flange from below. It is desirable that

  According to the present invention, it is easy to secure the joining region by joining the inner half part and the outer half part using the flange part, and it becomes easy to secure the sealing performance in the first fuel chamber and the second fuel chamber. . Furthermore, the joining process can be automated easily.

  On the other hand, since the flange portion protruding outward from the inner half portion and the outer half portion is supported from below by the support portion, the cartridge composed of the fuel cell tube, the first fuel chamber, and the second fuel chamber can be easily supported. . Furthermore, the above-described cartridge can be easily replaced when the fuel cell module is assembled or inspected.

  According to the fuel cell module of the present invention, since the plurality of fuel cell tubes are arranged in a single row, the weight can be reduced as compared with the case where the plurality of fuel cell tubes are arranged in a double row. In addition, there is an effect that it is possible to facilitate assembly and inspection.

[ Reference embodiment]
Hereinafter, a fuel cell module according to a reference embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.
Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a fuel cell module according to this reference embodiment.
In this reference embodiment, the invention of the present application will be described by applying it to a fuel cell module 1 which is an SOFC module having a plurality of cylindrical fuel cell tubes 2. However, the present embodiment is a fuel cell module having another cylindrical structure. There is no particular limitation.

The fuel cell module 1 according to this reference embodiment, in the case of using a fuel cell of a direct internal reforming type, a fuel gas, methane, is mixed gas of hydrocarbon and steam, such as propane is used. When the direct internal reforming fuel cell is not used, a mixed gas containing hydrogen and water vapor is used.
On the other hand, as the oxidant gas, oxygen, air, or a mixed gas containing them is used.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the fuel cell module 1 includes a plurality of fuel cell pipes 2, an oxidant gas supply chamber 3 as an air chamber, and a supply chamber (first chamber) that supplies fuel gas to the fuel cell pipe 2. 1 fuel chamber) 4, a discharge chamber (second fuel chamber) 5 into which fuel gas discharged from the fuel cell tube 2 flows, and heat insulators 6A and 6B are provided.

As shown in FIG. 1, the fuel battery cell tube 2 is a cylindrical base tube made of porous ceramics, and has a plurality of fuel cells formed on the outer peripheral surface.
Further, one end of the fuel cell tube 2 is fitted into the tube plate 43 of the supply chamber 4, and the other end is fitted into the tube plate 53 of the discharge chamber 5. The interior of the chamber 4 communicates with the interior of the fuel cell tube 2 and the interior of the discharge chamber 5.
In addition, as the porous chamber ceramic used for the fuel cell tube 2, stabilized zirconia can be exemplified.

FIG. 2 is a partially enlarged view illustrating the configuration of the supply chamber of FIG.
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the supply chamber 4 distributes and supplies fuel gas supplied from the outside to the fuel battery cell pipe 2 and supports the fuel battery cell pipe 2. A mechanism such as a rectifying plate that regulates the flow of the fuel gas may be provided inside the supply chamber 4 or may not be provided, and is not particularly limited.

  The supply chamber 4 includes a side plate 41, a side plate 42, a tube plate (first tube plate) 43, a fuel gas supply port 45 into which the fuel pipe 7 is fitted, and a fuel cell. And a first fitting portion 46 into which the cell tube 2 is interference-fitted.

  The side plate 41, the side plate 42, and the tube plate 43 form the supply chamber 4 having a hollow rectangular parallelepiped shape, and are plate-like members formed of stainless steel, a heat-resistant alloy, or the like. In particular, the tube plate 43 is a plate-like member that separates the supply chamber 4 and the oxidant gas supply chamber 3.

FIG. 3 is a partially enlarged sectional view for explaining the configuration of the fuel gas supply port of FIG.
As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the side plate 41 has a fuel gas supply port 45 into which the fuel pipe 7 is fitted. The fuel gas supply port 45 is formed with an inclined surface that is displaced toward the inside of the supply chamber 4 toward the center of the opening.
By forming such an inclined surface, the fuel pipe 7 can be easily fitted into the fuel gas supply port 45 using the elasticity of the inclined surface. That is, the assembly of the fuel pipe 7 and the supply chamber 4 is completed by inserting the fuel pipe 7 into the fuel gas supply port 45.

In this reference embodiment, description will be made by applying to an example in which the fuel gas supply port 45 is formed in the approximate center of the side plate 41. However, even if the fuel gas supply port 45 is formed in a position other than the approximate center. Well, not particularly limited.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the tube plate 43 is formed with a plurality of first fitting portions 46 into which the fuel cell tube 2 is tightly fitted. The first fitting portion 46 is formed with an inclined surface that is displaced toward the inside of the supply chamber 4 toward the center of the opening. By forming such an inclined surface, the fuel cell tube 2 can be easily fitted into the first fitting portion 46 using the elasticity of the inclined surface.
Furthermore, the plurality of first fitting portions 46 are arranged side by side on substantially the same straight line so as to form one row (single row).

  As shown in FIG. 1, the discharge chamber 5 supports the fuel cell tube 2 while the fuel gas discharged from the fuel cell tube 2 flows in. A mechanism such as a rectifying plate that regulates the flow of the fuel gas may be provided inside the discharge chamber 5 or may not be provided, and is not particularly limited.

  The discharge chamber 5 includes a side plate 51, a side plate 52, and a tube plate (second tube plate) 53 that form a side wall of the discharge chamber 5, a fuel gas discharge port 54 into which the fuel pipe 7 is fitted, and a fuel cell. And a second fitting portion 55 into which the cell tube 2 is interference-fitted.

  The side plate 51, the side plate 52, and the tube plate 53 form the discharge chamber 5 having a hollow rectangular parallelepiped shape, and are plate-like members formed of stainless steel, a heat-resistant alloy, or the like. In particular, the tube plate 53 is a plate-like member that separates the discharge chamber 5 and the oxidant gas supply chamber 3.

Similar to the side plate 41, the side plate 51 is formed with a fuel gas discharge port 54 into which the fuel pipe 7 is tightly fitted. The fuel gas discharge port 54 is formed with an inclined surface that is displaced toward the inside of the discharge chamber 5 toward the center of the opening.
By forming such an inclined surface, the fuel pipe 7 can be easily fitted into the fuel gas discharge port 54 using the elasticity of the inclined surface. That is, the assembly of the fuel pipe 7 and the discharge chamber 5 is completed by inserting the fuel pipe 7 into the fuel gas discharge port 54.

In this reference embodiment, description will be made by applying to an example in which the fuel gas discharge port 54 is formed at the approximate center of the side plate 51, but even if the fuel gas discharge port 54 is formed at a position other than the approximate center. Well, not particularly limited.

Similar to the tube plate 43, the tube plate 53 is formed with a plurality of second fitting portions 55 into which the fuel cell tube 2 is tightly fitted. The second fitting portion 55 is formed with an inclined surface that is displaced toward the inside of the discharge chamber 5 toward the center of the opening.
By forming such an inclined surface, the fuel cell tube 2 can be easily fitted into the second fitting portion 55 using the elasticity of the inclined surface. That is, the assembly of the fuel cell tube 2 and the tube plate 43 is completed by inserting the fuel cell tube 2 into the second fitting portion 55.

Further, the plurality of second fitting portions 55 are arranged side by side on substantially the same straight line so as to form one row (single row).
By arranging the first fitting part 46 and the second fitting part 55 in this way, the fuel cell pipes 2 are arranged in a single row, in other words, in a single row or on a substantially same straight line. be able to. Thus, even if the number of the fuel battery cell tubes 2 is changed by arranging the fuel battery cell tubes 2 in a single row, the influence on the dimensions of the fuel cell module 1 is small. That is, only the dimension in the direction in which the row of the fuel battery cell tubes 2 extends is affected, and the other dimensions are not affected.
In addition, the number of the 2nd fitting parts 55 is the same number as the number of the 1st fitting parts 46, Comprising: The number is not specifically limited.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the oxidant gas supply chamber 3 is disposed between the tube plate 43 of the supply chamber 4 and the tube plate 53 of the discharge chamber 5, and accommodates the fuel cell tube 2 therein. is there. Further, the oxidant gas supply chamber 3 is a chamber that is isolated from the supply chamber 4 and the discharge chamber 5 and supplies oxidant gas around the fuel cell tube 2.

The oxidant gas supply chamber 3 is a chamber formed from the side plate 31, the tube plate 43, and the tube plate 53.
The oxidant gas supply chamber 3 is provided with an oxidant gas supply port 32 through which the oxidant gas flows and an oxidant gas discharge port 33.
In the configuration shown in FIG. 1, the configuration related to current collection is omitted.

The heat insulator 6A and the heat insulator 6B shield the transfer of heat generated in the power generation battery cell of the fuel battery cell tube 2, and the tube plate 43, the tube plate 53, the first fitting portion 46, The 2 fitting part 55 etc. are protected from the above-mentioned heat.
The heat insulator 6 </ b> A is fixed in the vicinity of the tube plate 43 in the oxidant gas supply chamber 3, and the heat insulator 6 </ b> B is fixed in the vicinity of the tube plate 53 in the oxidant gas supply chamber 3.

An oxidant gas flow path is formed between the heat insulator 6B and the fuel cell tube 2, and the flow rate of the oxidant gas is limited by the flow path.
Examples of the material constituting the heat insulator 6A and the heat insulator 6B include heat insulating materials mainly composed of porous silica, porous alumina, silica, alumina, magnesia, and the like.

Next, power generation in the fuel cell module 1 having the above configuration will be described.
As shown in FIG. 1, power generation by the fuel cell module 1 is performed by supplying fuel gas to the supply chamber 4 and supplying oxidant gas to the oxidant gas supply chamber 3.

Specifically, the fuel gas is supplied from the fuel gas supply port 45 to the supply chamber 4 and then flows into the fuel cell tube 2. When supplied to the supply chamber 4, the fuel gas is preheated to about 250 ° C., for example.
The fuel gas is supplied to the fuel cell of the fuel cell tube 2 and used for power generation. Since the fuel battery cell generates heat during power generation, its temperature is maintained at about 900 ° C. to about 1000 ° C.
Fuel gas that has not been used for power generation and water vapor generated by power generation are sent from the fuel cell pipe 2 to the discharge chamber 5. The spent fuel gas is discharged from the fuel gas discharge port 54.

The oxidant gas flows into the oxidant gas supply chamber 3 from the oxidant gas supply port 32 and moves along the tube plate 53 in a space formed between the heat insulator 6B and the tube plate 53. Thereafter, the oxidant gas flows along the outer peripheral portion of the fuel cell tube 2 through the space between the heat insulator 6B and the outer peripheral portion of the fuel cell tube 2, and flows into the oxidant gas supply chamber 3.
In the oxidant gas supply chamber 3, the oxidant gas is supplied to the fuel cells of the fuel cell tube 2 and used for power generation. Part of the heat generated from the fuel cell during power generation is removed by the oxidant gas, and the temperature of the fuel cell is maintained at about 900 ° C. to about 1000 ° C.

Thereafter, the oxidant gas flows toward the supply chamber 4 side, and the heat absorbed from the fuel cell is released into the fuel gas flowing through the fuel cell tube 2 toward the discharge chamber 5 side, and the temperature of the fuel gas is increased. Raise the temperature. That is, the temperature of the fuel gas before being used for power generation is raised.
The oxidant gas whose temperature is increased is discharged from the oxidant gas discharge port 33 of the oxidant gas supply chamber 3 to the outside.

According to the above configuration, the plurality of fuel battery cell tubes 2 are arranged in a single row, in other words, arranged in a substantially same straight line, so that the plurality of fuel battery cell tubes 2 are arranged in a double row. Compared with the case where the tube plate 43 and the tube plate 53 are made thinner, the weight can be reduced. That is, compared with the case where the plurality of fuel cell tubes 2 are arranged in a double row, In the plate 43 and the tube plate 53, the length in the direction intersecting with the direction in which the above-described single row extends, that is, the orthogonal direction can be reduced. Therefore, when supporting the same number of fuel battery cell tubes 2, even the thin tube plate 43 and the tube plate 53 can be supported.

  On the other hand, since the plurality of fuel battery cell tubes 2 are arranged in a single row, the fuel cell tube 2 can be supported from both sides when assembled with the fuel cell tube 2, the supply chamber 4 and the discharge chamber 5. Therefore, as compared with the case where a plurality of fuel battery cell tubes 2 that interfere with the support of the adjacent fuel cell tube 2 are arranged in a double row, assembly, inspection, and the like can be facilitated.

Further, since the plurality of fuel battery cell tubes 2 are arranged in a single row, when assembling the fuel cell tube 2, the supply chamber 4, and the discharge chamber 5, the fuel cell tube 2 and the like are arranged horizontally, that is, horizontally. It can arrange | position so that it may extend in a direction, and an assembly, an inspection, etc. can be made easy.
That is, when a plurality of fuel battery cell tubes 2 are arranged in a double row, when assembling the fuel cell tube 2, the supply chamber 4, and the discharge chamber 5, the fuel cell tube 2 and the like are arranged vertically, that is, vertically. While it was necessary to arrange and assemble so as to extend, since the plurality of fuel cell pipes 2 are arranged in a single row, the fuel battery cell pipes 2 and the like are assembled in a horizontal position that can be easily supported. be able to.

Disassembly during repair of the fuel cell module 1 can be facilitated by tightly fitting between the supply chamber 4 and the fuel pipe 7 or between the discharge chamber 5 and the fuel pipe 7.
That is, compared with the method of welding between the supply chamber 4 and the fuel pipe 7 or the like, the method of the interference fit allows the supply chamber 4 and the fuel pipe 7 to be easily separated. Therefore, it is possible to easily repair the fuel cell module 1 that needs to separate the supply chamber 4 and the fuel pipe 7 or separate the discharge chamber 5 and the fuel pipe 7.

First Embodiment
Next, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.
The basic configuration of the fuel cell module of this embodiment is similar to the reference embodiment, the referential embodiment, is different from configuration of the feed chamber and discharge chamber. Therefore, in the present embodiment, only the configuration of the supply chamber and the discharge chamber will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 6 and description of other components and the like will be omitted.
FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of the supply chamber according to the fuel cell module of the present embodiment. FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of the discharge chamber according to the fuel cell module of FIG.
In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the component same as reference embodiment, and the description is abbreviate | omitted.

  As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the fuel cell module 101 includes a plurality of fuel cell pipes 2, a supply chamber (first fuel chamber) 104 that supplies fuel gas to the fuel cell pipe 2, and a fuel cell. A plurality of cartridges 108 including a discharge chamber (second fuel chamber) 105 into which the fuel gas discharged from the cell pipe 2 flows is provided.

  The cartridges 108 are arranged side by side in the vertical direction (the left-right direction in FIG. 4) with respect to the single row direction of the fuel battery cell tubes 2 (the direction perpendicular to the paper surface in FIG. 4). In the present embodiment, description will be made by applying to an example in which three cartridges 108 are provided.

  The supply chamber 104 includes a supply chamber 104A provided with one fuel gas supply port 45, a connection pipe 109 connected to the adjacent supply chamber 104, and a supply provided with two fuel gas supply ports 45. And chamber 104B.

  The supply chamber 104A includes a side plate 141, a side plate 142, a tube plate 43, a fuel gas supply port 45 into which the fuel pipe 7 is fitted, and a fuel gas in the adjacent supply chamber 104. A connection pipe 109 that is interference-fitted with the supply port 45 and a first fitting portion 46 that is interference-fitted with the fuel cell pipe 2 are provided.

  In the supply chamber 104B, a side plate 141, a side plate 142, a tube plate 43, a fuel pipe 7 and a connection pipe 109, which constitute a side wall of the supply chamber 104, and a fuel gas supply port 45 and a fuel cell tube are fitted. And a first fitting portion 46 in which 2 is interference-fitted.

Unlike the reference embodiment, the fuel gas supply port 45 is provided in the side plate 142. That is, it is provided on at least one of the pair of side plates 142 extending along the single row direction of the fuel cell tube 2.
Specifically, in the supply chamber 104A, the fuel gas supply port 45 is provided in one of the pair of side plates 142, in other words, in the side plate 142 facing the side plate 142 provided with the connection pipe 109. In the supply chamber 104 </ b> B, the fuel gas supply ports 45 are provided in both the pair of side plates 142.

  The discharge chamber 105 includes a discharge chamber 105 </ b> A provided with one fuel gas discharge port 54, one connection pipe 109 connected to the adjacent discharge chamber 105, and a discharge provided with two fuel gas discharge ports 54. And chamber 105B.

  The discharge chamber 105 </ b> A includes a side plate 151, a side plate 152, a tube plate 53, a fuel gas discharge port 54 into which the fuel pipe 7 is tightly fitted, and a fuel gas in the adjacent discharge chamber 105. A connection pipe 109 that is tightly fitted to the discharge port 54 and a second fitting portion 55 that is tightly fitted to the fuel cell pipe 2 are provided.

  In the discharge chamber 105B, a side plate 151, a side plate 152, a tube plate 53, a fuel pipe 7 and a connection pipe 109, which constitute a side wall of the discharge chamber 105, and a fuel gas discharge port 54 and a fuel cell tube are fitted. And a second fitting portion 55 to which 2 is interference-fitted.

Unlike the reference embodiment, the fuel gas discharge port 54 is provided in the side plate 152. That is, it is provided on at least one of the pair of side plates 152 extending along the single row direction of the fuel cell tube 2.
Specifically, in the discharge chamber 105A, the fuel gas discharge port 54 is provided on one of the pair of side plates 152, in other words, on the side plate 152 facing the side plate 152 provided with the connection pipe 109. In the discharge chamber 105 </ b> B, the fuel gas discharge ports 54 are provided on both the pair of side plates 152.

FIG. 6 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view for explaining the configuration of the connection pipe of FIGS. 4 and 5.
As shown in FIG. 6, the connecting pipe 109 circulates fuel gas between the adjacent supply chamber 104 or the adjacent discharge chamber 105. Further, the connection pipe 109 is a pipe that extends outward from the side plate 142 or the side plate 152 and is tightly fitted to the fuel gas supply port 45 of the adjacent supply chamber 104 or the fuel gas discharge port 54 of the adjacent discharge chamber 105.

According to the above configuration, in the cartridges 108 arranged side by side, the connection pipe 109 extending from one supply chamber 104A or the like is tightly fitted to the other adjacent supply chamber 104A or the supply chamber 104B. The clearance between the cartridges 108 arranged side by side can be reduced.
Furthermore, since the adjacent supply chamber 104A, the supply chamber 104B, etc. are connected by the connection piping 109, the number of the fuel piping 7 connected to the supply chamber 104A, the supply chamber 104B, etc. can be reduced. That is, by connecting the fuel pipe 7 to one supply chamber 104 </ b> A, the supply chamber 104 </ b> B, etc., all the supply chambers 104 </ b> A, the supply chambers 104 </ b> B, etc. are communicated with the fuel pipe 7 via the connection pipe 109. Therefore, the number of fuel pipes 7 can be reduced as compared with a method in which the fuel pipes 7 are individually connected to all the supply chambers 104A, the supply chambers 104B, and the like.

Second Embodiment
Next, a description will be given of a second embodiment of the present invention from FIG. 7 with reference to FIG. 10.
The basic configuration of the fuel cell module of this embodiment is similar to the reference embodiment, the referential embodiment, is different from configuration of the feed chamber and discharge chamber. Therefore, in the present embodiment, only the configuration of the supply chamber and the discharge chamber will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 to 10, and description of other components and the like will be omitted.
FIG. 7 is a partial cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of the supply chamber according to the fuel cell module of the present embodiment. FIG. 8 is a partial cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of the discharge chamber according to the fuel cell module of FIG.
In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the component same as reference embodiment, and the description is abbreviate | omitted.

  As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the fuel cell module 201 includes a plurality of fuel cell pipes 2, a supply chamber (first fuel chamber) 204 for supplying fuel gas to the fuel cell pipe 2, and a fuel cell. A plurality of cartridges 208 including a discharge chamber (second fuel chamber) 205 into which fuel gas discharged from the cell pipe 2 flows are provided.

  The cartridge 208 is arranged side by side in the vertical direction (left and right direction in FIG. 7) with respect to the single row direction of the fuel battery cell tubes 2 (perpendicular direction to the paper surface in FIG. 7). In this embodiment, description will be made by applying to an example in which three cartridges 208 are provided.

  In the supply chamber 204, the side plate 141, the side plate 242 and the tube plate 43 constituting the side wall of the supply chamber 204, the fuel gas supply port 45 into which the fuel pipe 207 is tightly fitted, and the fuel cell pipe 2 are tightly fitted. A first fitting portion 46 is provided.

Unlike the reference embodiment, the fuel gas supply port 45 is provided in each of the pair of side plates 242. That is, it is provided on each of the pair of side plates 242 extending along the single row direction of the fuel cell tube 2.

  In the discharge chamber 205, the side plate 151, the side plate 252 and the tube plate 53 constituting the side wall of the discharge chamber 205, the fuel gas discharge port 54 into which the fuel pipe 207 is fitted, and the fuel cell pipe 2 are fitted. The second fitting portion 55 is provided.

Unlike the reference embodiment, the fuel gas discharge port 54 is provided in each of the pair of side plates 252. That is, it is provided on each of the pair of side plates 252 extending along the single row direction of the fuel cell tube 2.

FIG. 9 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view for explaining the configuration of the fuel pipe of FIGS. 7 and 8. FIG. 10 is a II step view for explaining the configuration of the fuel pipe of FIG. 9.
As shown in FIGS. 7 to 9, the fuel pipe 207 is a pipe disposed through the supply chamber 204 or the discharge chamber 205 arranged side by side.
As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, a plurality of communication holes 207 </ b> H are formed in the cylindrical surface disposed inside the supply chamber 204 or the discharge chamber 205 of the fuel pipe 207.

  According to the above configuration, in the cartridges 208 arranged side by side, the fuel pipes 207 pass through all the supply chambers 204 and the discharge chambers 205 and are tightly fitted in the supply chambers 204 and the like. The clearance between the formed cartridges 208 can be reduced.

  On the other hand, since the communication hole is formed in the fuel pipe 207, the number of fuel pipes 207 connected to the supply chamber 204 or the like can be reduced. That is, since all the supply chambers 204 and the like are communicated with the fuel pipes 207 through the communication holes 207H, the number of the fuel pipes 207 is compared with the method of connecting the fuel pipes 207 to all the supply chambers 204 and the like individually. Can be reduced.

  Further, since the fuel pipe 207 penetrates all the supply chambers 204 and the like, the rigidity of the wall surface, for example, the side plate 242 in the supply chamber 204 or the like can be increased. That is, as compared with the case where the supply chambers 204 and the like are simply arranged side by side, the fuel pipe 207 is tightly fitted to the supply chambers 204 and the like. Enhanced.

[ Third Embodiment]
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
The basic configuration of the fuel cell module of this embodiment is similar to the reference embodiment, the referential embodiment, is different from configuration of the feed chamber and discharge chamber. Therefore, in the present embodiment, only the configuration of the supply chamber and the discharge chamber will be described with reference to FIG. 11, and description of other components and the like will be omitted.
FIG. 11 is a partial cross-sectional view for explaining the configuration of the supply chamber and the discharge chamber according to the fuel cell module of the present embodiment.
In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the component same as reference embodiment, and the description is abbreviate | omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the fuel cell module 301 includes a plurality of fuel battery cell tubes 2, a supply chamber (first fuel chamber) 304 that supplies fuel gas to the fuel cell tube 2, and the fuel cell tube 2. A plurality of cartridges 308 including a discharge chamber (second fuel chamber) 305 into which the fuel gas discharged from the gas flows in are provided.

The supply chamber 304 is provided with an outer half 304A that forms the outside of the supply chamber 304, and an inner half 304B that forms the inside.
The outer half portion 304A and the inner half portion 304B are each provided with a flange portion 309 projecting outward, and the supply chamber 304 is formed by welding the flange portion 309. The inner half portion 304B is further provided with a first fitting portion 46 into which the fuel cell tube 2 is tightly fitted.

Similarly, the discharge chamber 305 is provided with an outer half 305A that forms the outside of the discharge chamber 305 and an inner half 305B that forms the inside.
The outer half 305 </ b> A and the inner half 305 </ b> B are each provided with a flange 309 projecting outward, and the discharge chamber 305 is formed by welding the flange 309. The inner half portion 305B is further provided with a second fitting portion 55 into which the fuel cell tube 2 is tightly fitted.

According to the configuration described above, the upper portion of the supply chamber 304 can be opened by attaching the outer half portion 304A later of the outer half portion 304A and the inner half portion 304B constituting the supply chamber 304. Similarly, the upper part of the discharge chamber 305 can be opened by attaching the outer half 305A later from the outer half 305A and the inner half 305B constituting the discharge chamber 305.
Therefore, handling of jigs used when assembling or checking the fuel cell module 301, that is, handling is facilitated.
Furthermore, since the sealing performance can be secured by welding from the outside of the flange portion 309, the joining process at the time of mass production can be automated.

[Modification of Third Embodiment]
Next, a modification of the third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
The basic configuration of the fuel cell module of this modification is the same as the third embodiment, the third embodiment, the configuration in the vicinity of the flange portion are different. Therefore, in this embodiment, only the configuration in the vicinity of the buttocks will be described with reference to FIG. 12, and description of other components and the like will be omitted.
FIG. 12 is a partial cross-sectional view for explaining the configuration of the supply chamber and the discharge chamber according to the fuel cell module of the present embodiment.
In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the component same as 3rd Embodiment, and the description is abbreviate | omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 12, the fuel cell module 401 includes a plurality of fuel cell pipes 2, a supply chamber 304 that supplies the fuel gas to the fuel battery cell pipe 2, and the fuel gas discharged from the fuel cell pipe 2. Is provided with a discharge chamber 305 into which the ink flows, and a support portion 410 that supports the cartridge 308.

The supply chamber 304 is provided with an outer half 304A that forms the outside of the supply chamber 304, and an inner half 304B that forms the inside.
The outer half portion 304A and the inner half portion 304B are each provided with a flange portion 409 projecting outward, and the supply chamber 304 is formed by tightening or tightening the flange portion 409 with a pipe. The inner half portion 304B is further provided with a first fitting portion 46 into which the fuel cell tube 2 is tightly fitted.

Similarly, the discharge chamber 305 is provided with an outer half 305A that forms the outside of the discharge chamber 305 and an inner half 305B that forms the inside.
The outer half 305 </ b> A and the inner half 305 </ b> B are each provided with a flange 409 that protrudes outward, and the discharge chamber 305 is formed by tightening or winding the flange 409. The inner half portion 305B is further provided with a second fitting portion 55 into which the fuel cell tube 2 is tightly fitted.

The support portion 410 is a substantially rod-shaped member extending in the single row direction of the fuel battery cell tubes 2 (perpendicular to the paper surface of FIG. 12), and the supply chamber 304 or the flange portion 409 of the discharge chamber 305 is formed on the upper surface thereof. Is arranged.
By doing so, the support portion 410 can serve as a support member for the cartridge 308 and can also serve as an insertion rail when the cartridge 308 is inserted into the fuel cell module 401.

  According to the above configuration, it is easy to secure a joining region by joining the outer half part 304A and the inner half part 304B and joining the outer half part 305A and the inner half part 305B using the flange part 409. It becomes easy to ensure the sealing performance in the supply chamber 304 and the discharge chamber 305. Furthermore, the joining process can be automated easily.

  On the other hand, since the collar portion 409 protruding outward from the supply chamber 304 and the discharge chamber 305 is supported from below by the support portion 410, the cartridge 308 can be easily supported. Furthermore, the cartridge 308 can be easily inserted and replaced when the fuel cell module 401 is assembled or inspected.

  The technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

It is a schematic diagram explaining schematic structure of the fuel cell module which concerns on reference embodiment of this invention. It is a partial enlarged view explaining the structure of the supply chamber of FIG. It is a partial expanded sectional view explaining the structure of the fuel gas supply port of FIG. It is a fragmentary sectional view explaining the structure of the supply chamber in the fuel cell module which concerns on the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a fragmentary sectional view explaining the structure of the discharge chamber which concerns on the fuel cell module of FIG. FIG. 6 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view for explaining the configuration of the connection pipe of FIGS. 4 and 5. It is a fragmentary sectional view explaining the structure of the supply chamber which concerns on the fuel cell module of the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a fragmentary sectional view explaining the structure of the discharge chamber which concerns on the fuel cell module of FIG. It is a partial expanded sectional view explaining the structure of the fuel piping of FIG. 7 and FIG. FIG. 10 is a II step view for explaining the configuration of the fuel pipe of FIG. 9. It is a fragmentary sectional view explaining the structure of the supply chamber and discharge chamber which concern on the fuel cell module of the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a fragmentary sectional view explaining the structure of the supply chamber and discharge chamber of the fuel cell module which concerns on the modification of the 3rd Embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

1, 101, 201, 301, 401 Fuel cell module 2 Fuel cell tube 4, 104, 104A, 104B, 204, 304 Supply chamber (first fuel chamber)
5, 105, 105A, 105B, 205, 305 Discharge chamber (second fuel chamber)
43 Tube sheet (first tube sheet)
53 Tube sheet (second tube sheet)
7,207 Fuel piping 108, 208, 308 Cartridge 109 Connection piping 207H Communication hole 309, 409 Hook 304A, 305A Outer half 304B, 305B Inner half 410 Support

Claims (4)

A plurality of fuel cell tubes arranged in a single row with a plurality of fuel cells formed on the surface; and
A first fuel chamber having a first tube plate into which one end of the fuel cell tube is fitted, and supplying fuel gas supplied from the outside into the fuel cell tube;
A second fuel chamber that has a second tube plate to which the other end of the fuel cell pipe is fitted, and discharges the fuel gas flowing out of the fuel cell pipe to the outside;
And a fuel pipe connected to at least one of the first fuel chamber and the second fuel chamber and through which the fuel gas flows , both in a single row direction and an axial direction of the fuel cell tube A plurality are arranged adjacent to each other in the vertical direction,
An interference fit is provided between at least one of the first fuel chamber and the second fuel chamber connected to the fuel pipe and the fuel pipe.
At least one of the first fuel chamber and the second fuel chamber is provided with a connection pipe extending toward the other first fuel chamber or the second fuel chamber adjacent to the first fuel chamber and the second fuel chamber, The connection pipe is fitted into a fuel gas supply port formed in the other first fuel chamber or a fuel gas discharge port formed in the second fuel chamber. A plurality of fuel cell tubes arranged in a single row with a plurality of fuel cells formed on the surface; and
A first fuel chamber having a first tube plate into which one end of the fuel cell tube is fitted, and supplying fuel gas supplied from the outside into the fuel cell tube;
A second fuel chamber that has a second tube plate to which the other end of the fuel cell pipe is fitted, and discharges the fuel gas flowing out of the fuel cell pipe to the outside;
And a fuel pipe connected to at least one of the first fuel chamber and the second fuel chamber and through which the fuel gas flows , both in a single row direction and an axial direction of the fuel cell tube A plurality are arranged adjacent to each other in the vertical direction,
The fuel pipe, through at least one of the adjacent arranged in a plurality are the first fuel chamber and a plurality of said second fuel chamber disposed adjacent to each other, the adjacent direction of the respective fuel chamber to each other And has a plurality of communication holes communicating with the penetrating first fuel chamber or the second fuel chamber,
The fuel cell module, wherein the fuel pipe is tightly fitted to a fuel gas supply port formed in the first fuel chamber or a fuel gas discharge port formed in the second fuel chamber.   At least one of the first fuel chamber and the second fuel chamber is divided into two parts, an inner half part on the side close to the fuel cell tube and an outer half part on the far side. The fuel cell module according to claim 1 or 2. A flange that protrudes outward from the inner half and the outer half, and is used for joining the inner half and the outer half; and
A support part for supporting the collar part from below;
The fuel cell module according to claim 3, wherein the fuel cell module is provided.

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