WO2014136553A1 - Fuel cell system - Google Patents

Fuel cell system Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2014136553A1
WO2014136553A1 PCT/JP2014/053570 JP2014053570W WO2014136553A1 WO 2014136553 A1 WO2014136553 A1 WO 2014136553A1 JP 2014053570 W JP2014053570 W JP 2014053570W WO 2014136553 A1 WO2014136553 A1 WO 2014136553A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
section
fuel cell
fluid supply
fuel
supply apparatus
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/JP2014/053570
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Tetsuya Ogawa
Akihito YUZURIHA
Original Assignee
Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Honda Motor Co., Ltd. filed Critical Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
Publication of WO2014136553A1 publication Critical patent/WO2014136553A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • 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
    • H01M8/24—Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells
    • H01M8/2465—Details of groupings of fuel cells
    • H01M8/247—Arrangements for tightening a stack, for accommodation of a stack in a tank or for assembling different tanks
    • H01M8/2475—Enclosures, casings or containers of fuel cell stacks
    • 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
    • H01M8/06—Combination of fuel cells with means for production of reactants or for treatment of residues
    • H01M8/0606—Combination of fuel cells with means for production of reactants or for treatment of residues with means for production of gaseous reactants
    • H01M8/0612—Combination of fuel cells with means for production of reactants or for treatment of residues with means for production of gaseous reactants from carbon-containing material
    • 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
    • H01M8/12—Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
    • H01M2008/1293—Fuel cells with solid oxide electrolytes
    • 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
    • H01M2250/00—Fuel cells for particular applications; Specific features of fuel cell system
    • H01M2250/40—Combination of fuel cells with other energy production systems
    • H01M2250/405—Cogeneration of heat or hot water
    • 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
    • H01M8/04014—Heat exchange using gaseous fluids; Heat exchange by combustion of reactants
    • H01M8/04022—Heating by combustion
    • 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
    • H01M8/06—Combination of fuel cells with means for production of reactants or for treatment of residues
    • H01M8/0662—Treatment of gaseous reactants or gaseous residues, e.g. cleaning
    • 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

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a fuel cell system including a fuel cell module, a fuel gas supply apparatus, an oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus, a water supply apparatus, a power converter, a control device, and a casing containing the fuel cell module, the fuel gas supply
  • the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus the water supply apparatus, the power converter, and the control device .
  • a solid oxide fuel cell employs a solid electrolyte of ion-conductive oxide such as stabilized zirconia.
  • the solid electrolyte is interposed between an anode and a cathode to form an electrolyte electrode
  • the electrolyte electrode assembly is interposed between separators (bipolar plates). In use, normally, predetermined numbers of the electrolyte electrode assemblies and the separators are stacked together to form a fuel cell stack.
  • the fuel cell stack is provided as a fuel cell module.
  • the fuel cell module includes a heat exchanger for heating an oxygen-containing gas before the oxygen-containing gas is supplied to the fuel cell stack, an evaporator for
  • evaporating water to produce a mixed fuel of water vapor and a raw fuel (fuel gas) chiefly containing hydrocarbon, and a reformer for reforming the mixed fuel to produce a reformed gas .
  • the fuel cell module, a fluid supply section, and an electrical equipment section are provided in a casing to form a fuel cell system.
  • the fluid supply section contains a fuel gas supply apparatus for supplying the fuel gas, an oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus for supplying the oxygen-containing gas, and a water supply apparatus for supplying the water.
  • the electrical equipment section contains an ECU (control device) for controlling power generation in the fuel cell module and an inverter (power converter) for converting generated electrical energy to electrical energy according to requirements specification.
  • a case 1001 contains a fuel cell 1002, a fuel reformer (not shown) for producing a fuel gas to be supplied to the fuel cell 1002, a gas supply apparatus 1003 for supplying a reformed gas to the fuel reformer, a water supply apparatus 1004 for supplying water to the fuel reformer, and a power converter 1005 for converting direct current electrical energy generated in the fuel cell 1002 into alternating current electrical energy, and supplying the alternating electrical energy to external loads.
  • the fuel cell 1002 and the fuel reformer are provided at upper positions of the case 1001, and the power converter 1005, the water supply apparatus 1004, and the gas supply apparatus 1003 are provided at lower positions of the case 1001 and arranged such that the gas supply apparatus 1003 is positioned between the power converter 1005 and the water supply apparatus 1004.
  • a partition member 1012 provided in an outer case 1011 divides the space in the outer case 1011 into a module compartment 1014 containing a fuel cell module 1013 and an auxiliary device compartment 1016 containing a raw fuel gas supply apparatus 1015.
  • An exhaust port 1017 is formed in a side wall of the outer case 1011, for discharging the air in the module compartment 1014.
  • the module compartment 1014 and the exhaust port 1017 are connected by an exhaust channel 1018.
  • An air channel 1019 is formed in the partition member 1012, for supplying the air in the auxiliary device compartment
  • the package 1021 is divided into a first chamber 1025 and a second chamber 1026 by a partition wall 1024.
  • the power supply circuit 1023 is provided in the first chamber 1025, and the fuel cell 1022 is provided in the second chamber 1026.
  • the package 1021 has a first air intake port 1027 for guiding the external air into the first chamber 1025, and a first exhaust port 1028 for discharging a gas in the first chamber 1025 to the outside of the first chamber 1025.
  • an air supply device (fan) 1029 for supplying the external air into the first chamber 1025 is provided.
  • a solid oxide fuel cell 1031 As shown in FIG. 8, a solid oxide fuel cell 1031, a housing 1032 containing the solid oxide fuel cell 1031, and a heat exchanger 1033 for producing hot water by heating water by heat exchange with an exhaust gas discharged from the solid oxide fuel cell 1031 is provided.
  • the housing 1032 has an exhaust gas discharge port 1034 for discharging the exhaust gas discharged from the heat exchanger 1033 to the outside, and deflection means 1035 for deflecting the exhaust gas discharged from the exhaust gas discharge port 1034.
  • the exhaust gas discharged from the exhaust gas discharge port 1034 is discharged through the deflection means 1035 in oblique directions relative to the outer surface of the housing 1032.
  • the temperature such as the power converter 1005 are thermally influenced undesirably. Further, the fuel cell 1002 and the fuel reformer are provided at upper positions of the case 1001, and the power converter 1005, the water supply
  • the gas supply apparatus 1003 and the gas supply apparatus 1003 are provided at lower positions of the case 1001. Therefore, the size of the case 1001 in the height direction tends to be large, and the case 1001 cannot be installed stably.
  • the space inside the outer case 1011 is divided into the module compartment 1014 containing the fuel cell module 1013, and the auxiliary device compartment 1016 containing various devices such as an air supply blower BR in addition to the raw fuel gas supply apparatus 1015.
  • the auxiliary device compartment 1016 when leakage of the fuel gas occurs, the fuel gas may be sucked into the air supply blower BR undesirably.
  • the size of the outer case 1011 in the height direction tends to be large, and the outer case 1011 cannot be installed stably.
  • an oxygen-containing gas supply device OS is provided above a fuel gas supply device FS. Therefore, it may be difficult to detect leakage of the fuel gas
  • the power supply circuit 1023 is provided at the uppermost position of the package 1021, the power supply circuit 1023 tends to be thermally affected by other auxiliary devices. Further, dedicated ventilating devices are provided in the first chamber 1025 and the second chamber 1026, respectively. Thus, the structure is complicated uneconomically .
  • the fuel cell module including the solid oxide fuel cell 1031, a reformer, and an air preheter are provided at upper
  • the present invention has been made to solve the problems of this type, and an object of the present
  • invention is to provide a fuel cell system having simple and economical structure in which the desired ventilating process is achieved, the size in the height direction is reduced suitably, and improvement in the stability of the installed fuel cell system is achieved.
  • the present invention relates to a fuel cell system including a fuel cell module for generating electrical energy by electrochemical reactions of a fuel gas and an oxygen-containing gas, a fuel gas supply apparatus for supplying the fuel gas to the fuel cell module, an oxygen- containing gas supply apparatus for supplying the oxygen- containing gas to the fuel cell module, a water supply apparatus for supplying water to the fuel cell module, a power converter for converting direct current electrical energy generated in the fuel cell module to electrical energy according to requirements specification, a control device for controlling an amount of electrical energy generated in the fuel cell module, and a casing containing the fuel cell module, the fuel gas supply apparatus, the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus, the water supply apparatus, the power converter, and the control device.
  • the casing is divided into a module section where the fuel cell module is provided, a first fluid supply section where the fuel gas supply apparatus is provided, a second fluid supply section where the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus and the water supply apparatus are provided, and an electrical equipment section where the power converter and the control device are provided.
  • the module section and the second fluid supply section are provided between the first fluid supply section and the electrical equipment section, and the second fluid supply section is provided under the module section.
  • An air flow port is provided between the electrical equipment section and the second fluid supply section, for guiding air in the electrical equipment section to the second fluid supply section.
  • An air supply port is provided in the electrical equipment section for guiding air outside the casing to inside of the casing.
  • the first fluid supply section has an air discharge port and a ventilating fan for guiding air inside the casing to outside of the casing.
  • a first ventilating channel and a second ventilating channel are formed inside the casing.
  • the first ventilating channel extends from the air supply port to the electrical equipment section, an area above the module section, the first fluid supply section, and the air discharge port.
  • the second ventilating channel extends from the air supply port to the electrical equipment section, the air flow port, and the second fluid supply section.
  • the first ventilating channel is formed inside the casing.
  • the first ventilating channel extends from the air supply port to the electrical equipment section, the area above the module section, the first fluid supply section, and the air discharge port.
  • the second ventilating channel is formed inside the casing.
  • the second ventilating channel extends from the air supply port to the electrical equipment
  • the air flow port the second fluid supply section.
  • the air is supplied to the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus.
  • the warmed air which is stagnant in the casing is discharged from the air discharge port to the outside of the casing.
  • the space inside the casing is divided into the module section where the fuel cell module is provided, the first fluid supply section where the fuel gas supply apparatus is provided, the second fluid supply section where the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus and the water supply apparatus are provided, and the electrical equipment section where the power converter and the control device are provided.
  • the space in the casing is divided depending on the operating temperature and the function. In the structure, diffusion of heat and fluid is minimized. In terms of functionality, the optimum layout of the components is achieved.
  • the first fluid supply section is provided on one side of the module section. Therefore, the first fluid supply section forms an outer wall section of the casing. Cooling of the first fluid supply section is facilitated, and the first fluid supply section does not become hot easily.
  • the electrical equipment section is provided on the other side of the module section.
  • the electrical equipment section forms an outer wall section of the casing. Cooling of the electrical equipment section is facilitated, and the electrical
  • the second fluid supply section is provided under the module section. Therefore, the second fluid supply section forms a lower wall section of the casing.
  • Cooling of the second fluid supply section is facilitated, and the second fluid supply section does not become hot easily.
  • the thermal influence on the first fluid supply section and the second fluid supply section, including components which need to be used at relatively low temperature, such as pumps, and the electrical equipment section including the control device is prevented as much as possible. Therefore, functions of the components in the first fluid supply section, the second fluid supply section, and the electrical equipment section are favorably
  • the second fluid supply section forms the lower wall section of the casing.
  • the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus having a large volume and a large weight is provided at a lower position of the fuel cell system.
  • the center of gravity of the fuel cell system is lowered as a whole, and improvement in the stability of the installed fuel cell system is achieved suitably.
  • the module section is provided between the first fluid supply section and the electrical equipment section.
  • the size of the casing in a lateral direction in which the first fluid supply section, the module section, and the electrical equipment section are arranged is increased, but the sizes of the casing in a depth direction and a height direction intersecting with this lateral direction are reduced effectively.
  • first fluid supply section, the module section, and the electrical equipment section are provided alongside in the lateral direction, components in the first fluid supply section, the module section, and the electrical equipment section can be accessed and maintenance (or repair) operation for these components can be performed from the front side. Accordingly, improvement in the maintenance operation is achieved easily.
  • FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing structure of a fuel cell system according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective view schematically showing the fuel cell system as viewed from one side of the fuel cell system;
  • FIG. 3 is a perspective view schematically showing the fuel cell system as viewed from another side of the fuel cell system;
  • FIG. 4 is a front view schematically showing the fuel cell system
  • FIG. 5 is a perspective view schematically showing a fuel cell power generator apparatus of the conventional technique 1 ;
  • FIG. 6 is a front view schematically showing a fuel cell apparatus of the conventional technique 2 ;
  • FIG. 7 is a front view schematically showing a fuel cell system of the conventional technique 3.
  • FIG. 8 is a front view schematically showing a solid oxide fuel cell system of the conventional technique 4.
  • a fuel cell system 10 As shown in FIG. 1, a fuel cell system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is used in a
  • the fuel cell system 10 can be used in various applications.
  • the fuel cell system 10 may be mounted in a vehicle.
  • the fuel cell system 10 includes a fuel cell module (SOFC module) 12 for generating electrical energy in power generation by electrochemical reactions of a fuel gas (e.g., mixed gas of a hydrogen gas, methane, and carbon monoxide) and an oxygen-containing gas (e.g., air), a fuel gas supply apparatus 14 for supplying a raw fuel (e.g., city gas) chiefly containing hydrocarbon as the fuel gas to the fuel cell module 12, an oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus 16 for supplying the oxygen-containing gas to the fuel cell module 12, a water supply apparatus 18 for supplying water to the fuel cell module 12, a power converter 20 for
  • the fuel cell module 12, the fuel gas supply apparatus 14, the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus 16, the water supply apparatus 18, the power converter 20, and the control device 22 are disposed in a single casing 24 (see FIGS. 2 to 4).
  • the fuel cell module 12 includes a fuel cell stack 28 formed by stacking a plurality of solid oxide fuel cells 26 in a vertical direction (or in a
  • the fuel cells 26 are formed by stacking electrolyte electrode assemblies (MEA) 30 and separators 32. Though not shown, each of the electrolyte electrode assemblies 30 includes a cathode, an anode, and a solid electrolyte (solid oxide) interposed between the cathode and the anode.
  • the solid electrolyte is made of ion-conductive oxide such as stabilized zirconia.
  • the fuel cell module 12 includes a reformer 34 for reforming a mixed gas of a raw fuel and water vapor to produce a fuel gas (reformed gas) and supplying the fuel gas to the fuel cell stack 28, an evaporator 36 for evaporating water and supplying the water vapor to the reformer 34, a heat exchanger 38 for raising the temperature of the oxygen- containing gas by heat exchange with a combustion gas and supplying the oxygen-containing gas to the fuel cell stack 28, an exhaust gas combustor 40 for combusting the fuel gas discharged from the fuel cell stack 28 as a fuel exhaust gas and the oxygen-containing gas discharged from the fuel cell stack 28 as an oxygen-containing exhaust gas to produce the combustion gas, and a start-up combustor 42 for combusting the raw fuel and the oxygen-containing gas to produce the combustion gas.
  • a reformer 34 for reforming a mixed gas of a raw fuel and water vapor to produce a fuel gas (reformed gas) and supplying the fuel gas to the fuel cell stack 28, an evaporator 36
  • the fuel gas supply apparatus 14 has a raw fuel channel 44 for supplying a city gas (13A) to the reformer 34.
  • a pair of regulator valves 46a, 46b is provided at positions somewhere in the raw fuel channel 44, and a pressure
  • regulator 48 is interposed between the regulator valves 46a, 46b.
  • a fuel pump 50 is provided downstream of the regulator valve 46b.
  • a buffer tank 52, a flow rate sensor 54, and a desulfurizer 56 are provided downstream of the fuel pump 50, successively.
  • a raw fuel branch channel 58 is provided between the regulator valve 46a and the pressure regulator 48.
  • the raw fuel branch channel 58 is connected to a start-up combustor 42, and a regulator valve 46c is provided somewhere in the raw fuel branch channel 58.
  • the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus 16 has an air supply pipe 60.
  • a dust collecting filter 62, a flow rate sensor 64, and an air pump 66 are provided along the air supply pipe 60 from the upstream side to the downstream side.
  • the air supply pipe 60 is connected to the heat exchanger 38.
  • An air branch channel 68 is branched from the air supply pipe 60.
  • a burner blower 70 is provided in the air branch channel 68, and the air branch channel 68 is connected to the start-up combustor 42.
  • the start-up combustor 42 has a burner. As described above, the raw fuel and the air are supplied to the start-up combustor 42.
  • the water supply apparatus 18 has a condensed water tank 72.
  • a water level sensor 74 is provided at the
  • condensed water tank 72 and a water channel 76 is connected to a lower position of the condensed water tank 72.
  • the water channel 76 is connected to the evaporator 36.
  • An ion exchanger 78, a pure water pump 80, and a flow rate sensor 82 are provided at positions somewhere in the water channel 76 from the upstream side to the downstream side.
  • a hot water storage heat exchanger 84 is connected to the
  • the hot water storage heat exchanger 84 is connected to the heat exchanger 38 through an exhaust pipe 88. At the heat exchanger 38, a partially-consumed reactant gas
  • the exhaust gas or combustion exhaust gas discharged from the fuel cell stack 28 (hereinafter also referred to as the exhaust gas or combustion exhaust gas ) and the air as heated fluid flow in a counterflow manner for heat exchange between these gases.
  • the exhaust gas after the heat exchange is discharged into the exhaust pipe 88, and the air after the heat exchange is supplied to the fuel cell stack 28 as the oxygen-containing gas.
  • the hot water storage heat exchanger 84 is connected to a hot water supply pipe 92 extending from a hot water tank (hot water supply tank) 91 of a hot water server 90.
  • a hot water supply pump 96 is provided in the hot water supply pipe 92 for supplying water at low temperature to the hot water storage heat exchanger 84.
  • heat exchange between the supplied water and the exhaust gas is performed.
  • the heated hot water is returned from a hot water supply pipe 92a to the hot water tank 91.
  • a rated exhaust pipe (pipe which is exposed to the atmosphere during the rated operation) 100 and a drain pipe 102 are connected to the condensed water tank 72.
  • the casing 24 has a
  • the space in the casing 24 is divided into a module section 110, a first fluid supply section 112, a second fluid supply section 114, and an electrical equipment section 116.
  • the fuel cell module 12 is provided in the module section 110
  • the fuel gas supply apparatus 14 is provided in the first fluid supply section 112, the oxygen-containing gas supply
  • the apparatus 16 and the water supply apparatus 18 are provided in the second fluid supply section 114, and the power converter 20 and the control device 22 are provided in the electrical equipment section 116.
  • the module section 110, the first fluid supply section 112, the second fluid supply section 114, and the electrical equipment section 116 may be separated from one another using partition members.
  • the module section 110, the first fluid supply section 112, the second fluid supply section 114, and the electrical equipment section 116 may be provided spatially separately in four areas by appearance.
  • a vertical partition plate 118 extending vertically is provided in the casing 24 as a partition of the electrical equipment section 116.
  • a base table 120 having an L- shape in cross section is
  • a short vertical partition plate 122 is provided adjacent to the first fluid supply section 112.
  • the module section 110 and the second fluid supply section 114 are provided between the first fluid supply section 112 and the electrical equipment section 116.
  • the second fluid supply section 114 is provided under the module section 110.
  • An air flow port 124 for guiding the air in the electrical equipment section 116 to the second fluid supply section 114 is provided between the electrical equipment section 116 and the second fluid supply section 114, i.e., in the vertical partition plate 118.
  • the electrical equipment section 116 has an air supply port 126 for guiding the air outside the casing 24 into the casing 24.
  • the air supply port 126 is formed in a side surface of the casing 24.
  • the first fluid supply section 112 has an air discharge port 128 and a ventilating fan 130 for guiding the air inside the casing 24 to the outside of the casing 24.
  • the air discharge port 128 is formed in a side surface of the casing 24.
  • the ventilating channel 134 are formed inside the casing 24.
  • the first ventilating channel 132 extends from the air supply port 126 to the electrical equipment section 116, an area above the module section 110, the first fluid supply section 112, and the air discharge port 128.
  • the second ventilating channel 134 extends from the air supply port 126 to the electrical equipment section 116, the air flow port 124, and the second fluid supply section 114.
  • a fuel gas detector 136 for detecting leakage of the fuel gas, the desulfurizer 56 for removing sulfur component from the fuel gas, the fuel gas supply apparatus 14, the hot water storage heat exchanger 84 for performing heat exchange between the exhaust gas discharged from the fuel cell module 12 and the hot water supplied from the hot water tank 91, and the hot water supply pump 96 are provided.
  • the oxygen- containing gas supply apparatus 16 the condensed water tank 72 for storing condensed water obtained from the exhaust gas discharged from the fuel cell module 12, the ion exchanger 78 for removing impurities contained in the condensed water, and the water supply apparatus 18 are provided.
  • the power converter 20 is provided above the control device 22.
  • the ventilating fan 130 is provided between the hot water storage heat exchanger 84 and the air discharge port 128.
  • a beam plate 140 is provided above the module section 110, and a cable 138 connecting the first fluid supply section 112 and the electrical equipment section 116 is placed on the beam plate 140.
  • a raw fuel such as the city gas (including CH 4 , C 2 H 6 , C 3 H 8 , C 4 Hi 0 ) is supplied to the raw fuel channel 44.
  • the raw fuel from the raw fuel channel 44 flows through the raw fuel branch channel 58, and the raw fuel is supplied to the start-up combustor 42.
  • the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus 16 by operation of the burner blower 70 , the air flows through the air branch channel 68, and the air is supplied to the start-up combustor 42.
  • the mixed gas of the raw fuel and the air is supplied into the start-up combustor 42, and the mixed gas is ignited to start combustion.
  • the combustion gas is supplied to the heat exchanger 38, the reformer 34, and the evaporator 36 to heat (raise the temperature of) the heat exchanger 38, the reformer 34, and the evaporator 36.
  • the fuel pump 50 is driven to supply the raw fuel from the raw fuel channel 44 to the desulfurizer 56.
  • the raw fuel is supplied to the reformer 34.
  • the water supply apparatus 18 the water supplied to the water channel 76 through the pure water pump 80 is evaporated by the evaporator 36, and the water vapor is supplied to the reformer 34.
  • the mixed fuel of the raw fuel and the water vapor undergoes steam reforming in the reformer 34.
  • hydrocarbon of C 2+ is removed (reformed) , and a reformed gas chiefly containing methane is obtained.
  • the reformed gas is supplied to the fuel cell stack 28.
  • the methane in the reformed gas is reformed, and the hydrogen gas is obtained.
  • the fuel gas chiefly containing the hydrogen gas is supplied to the anodes (not shown) .
  • the air pump 66 by operation of the air pump 66, the air is supplied to the air supply pipe 60. This air is supplied to the heat exchanger 38. While the air is moving along the heat exchanger 38, heat exchange between the air and the exhaust gas as
  • the air heated by the heat exchanger 38 flows into the fuel cell stack 28, and the air is supplied to cathodes (not shown).
  • each of the electrolyte electrode assemblies 30 electrochemical reactions of the fuel gas and the air are induced for generating electricity.
  • electrolyte electrode assemblies 30 flows through the heat exchanger 38 for heat exchange with the air.
  • the exhaust gas heats the air to a desired temperature, and the
  • the exhaust gas is supplied to the evaporator 36 to evaporate water. After the exhaust gas passes through the evaporator 36, the exhaust gas is supplied to the hot water storage heat exchanger 84 through the exhaust pipe 88.
  • Water at low temperature is supplied from the hot water tank 91 of the hot water server 90 to the hot water storage heat exchanger 84.
  • the hot water server 90 by operation of the hot water supply pump 96, water is supplied to the hot water supply pipe 92.
  • the water flows into the hot water storage heat exchanger 84 for heat exchange with the exhaust gas .
  • the heated hot water returns from the hot water supply pipe 92a to the hot water tank 91, and the hot water is utilized for home use.
  • the first ventilating channel 132 is formed inside the casing 24.
  • the first ventilating channel 132 extends from the air supply port 126 to the electrical equipment section 116, the area above the module section 110, the first fluid supply section 112, and the air discharge port 128.
  • the second ventilating channel 134 is formed inside the casing 24.
  • the second ventilating channel 134 extends to the air flow port 124 and the second fluid supply section 114.
  • the air is supplied to the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus 16.
  • the warmed air which is stagnant in the casing 24 can be discharged to the outside of the casing 24.
  • the space inside the casing 24 is divided into the module section 110 where the fuel cell module 12 is provided, the first fluid supply section 112 where the fuel gas supply apparatus 14 is provided, the second fluid supply section 114 where the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus 16 and the water supply apparatus 18 are provided, and the electrical equipment section 116 where the power converter 20 and the control device 22 are provided.
  • the space in the casing 24 is divided depending on the operating temperature and the functions. In the structure, diffusion of heat and fluid is minimized. In terms of functionality, optimum layout of the components is achieved.
  • the space in the casing 24 is divided into the first fluid supply section 112 where the fuel gas supply apparatus 14 is provided and the second fluid supply section 114 where the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus 16 is provided, even if leakage of the fuel gas from the fuel gas supply apparatus 14 occurs, it is possible to prevent this fuel gas from being sucked into the oxygen- containing gas supply apparatus 16.
  • the first fluid supply section 112 is provided on one side of the module section 110. Therefore, the first fluid supply section 112 forms an outer wall section of the casing 24. Cooling of the first fluid supply section 112 is facilitated, and the first fluid supply section 112 does not become hot easily.
  • the electrical equipment section 116 is provided on the other side of the module section 110. Therefore, the electrical equipment section 116 forms an outer wall section of the casing 24. Cooling of the electrical equipment section 116 is facilitated, and the electrical equipment section 116 does not become hot easily.
  • the second fluid supply section 114 forms a lower wall section of the casing 24. Cooling of the second fluid supply section 114 is facilitated, and the second fluid supply section 114 does not become hot easily.
  • the thermal influence on the first fluid supply section 112 and the second fluid supply section 114, including components which need to be used at relatively low temperature, such as pumps (the fuel pump 50 and the air pump 66), and the electrical equipment section 116 including the control device 22 is prevented as much as possible.
  • the second fluid supply section 114 forms the lower wall section of the casing 24.
  • the oxygen- containing gas supply apparatus 16 having a large volume and a large weight is provided at a lower position of the fuel cell system 10.
  • the center of gravity of the fuel cell system 10 is lowered as a whole, and improvement in the stability of the installed fuel cell system 10 is achieved suitably.
  • the module section 110 is provided between the first fluid supply section 112 and the electrical equipment section 116.
  • the size of the casing 24 in a lateral direction in which the first fluid supply section 112, the module section 110, and the electrical equipment section 116 are arranged is increased, but the sizes of the casing 24 in a depth direction and a height direction intersecting with this lateral direction are reduced
  • first fluid supply section 112, the module section 110, and the electrical equipment section 116 are provided alongside in the lateral direction, components in the first fluid supply section 112, the module section 110, and the electrical equipment section 116 can be
  • maintenance (or repair) operation for these components can be performed from the front side.
  • the fuel gas detector 136 for detecting leakage of the fuel gas, the desulfurizer 56 for removing sulfur component from the fuel gas, the fuel gas supply apparatus 14, and the hot water storage heat exchanger 84 for performing heat exchange between the exhaust gas discharged from the fuel cell module 12 and the hot water supplied from the hot water tank 91 are provided .
  • all of the devices related to the fuel gas are provided locally in the first fluid supply section 112 as a single compartment, and it is possible to detect leakage of the fuel gas swiftly and reliably.
  • the outside air flows along the first ventilating channel 132, from the air supply port 126 to the electrical equipment section 116, then, to the area above the module section 110, then, to the first fluid supply section 112, and then, to the air discharge port 128. Therefore, stagnation of the warmed air in the first fluid supply section 112 does not occur easily, and it becomes possible to maintain the first fluid supply section 112 at the desired temperature.
  • the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus 16 the condensed water tank 72 for storing the condensed water obtained from the exhaust gas discharged from the fuel cell module 12, the ion exchanger 78 for removing impurities contained in the condensed water, and the water supply apparatus 18 are provided.
  • the power converter 20 is provided above the control device 22. Therefore, in the electrical equipment section 116, since the heat of the power converter 20 is removed lastly, the control device 22 is not exposed to the hot temperature, and the electrical equipment section 116 can be maintained at the desired temperature.
  • the ventilating fan 130 is provided between the hot water storage heat exchanger 84 and the air discharge port 128. Therefore, the heat released from the hot water storage heat exchanger 84 is not retained in the first fluid supply section 112 easily. Thus, it becomes possible to maintain the first fluid supply section 112 at the desired temperature.
  • the beam plate 140 is provided above the module section 110, and the cable 138 connecting the first fluid supply section 112 and the electrical equipment section 116 is placed on the beam plate 140.
  • the cable 138 since the cable 138 does not contact the fuel cell module 12 and heat radiation from the beam plate 140 is facilitated, the cable 138 does not become hot
  • the fuel cell module 12 is advantageous when it is a solid oxide fuel cell module, i.e., a fuel cell module including a high temperature type fuel cell.
  • the present invention is also suitably applicable to the other types of high temperature fuel cell modules and medium temperature fuel cell modules.
  • molten- carbonate fuel cells MCFC
  • PAFC phosphoric acid fuel cells
  • H FC hydrogen membrane fuel cells

Landscapes

  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
  • Sustainable Development (AREA)
  • Sustainable Energy (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • Electrochemistry (AREA)
  • General Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Fuel Cell (AREA)

Abstract

A casing (24) of a fuel cell system (10) is divided into a module section (110) where a fuel cell module (12) is provided, a first fluid supply section (112) where a fuel gas supply apparatus (14) is provided, a second fluid supply section (114) where an oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus (16) and a water supply apparatus (18) are provided, and an electrical equipment section (116) where a power converter (20) and a control device (22) are provided. A first ventilating channel (132) and a second ventilating channel (134) are formed inside the casing (24). The first ventilating channel (132) extends from an air supply port (126) to the electrical equipment section (116), an area above the module section (110), the first fluid supply section (112), and an air discharge port (128). The second ventilating channel (134) extends from the air supply port (126) to the electrical equipment section (116), an air flow port (124), and the second fluid supply section (114).

Description

DESCRIPTION
Title of Invention
FUEL CELL SYSTEM
Technical Field
The present invention relates to a fuel cell system including a fuel cell module, a fuel gas supply apparatus, an oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus, a water supply apparatus, a power converter, a control device, and a casing containing the fuel cell module, the fuel gas supply
apparatus, the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus, the water supply apparatus, the power converter, and the control device .
Background Art
Typically, a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) employs a solid electrolyte of ion-conductive oxide such as stabilized zirconia. The solid electrolyte is interposed between an anode and a cathode to form an electrolyte electrode
assembly (MEA) . The electrolyte electrode assembly is interposed between separators (bipolar plates). In use, normally, predetermined numbers of the electrolyte electrode assemblies and the separators are stacked together to form a fuel cell stack.
The fuel cell stack is provided as a fuel cell module. The fuel cell module includes a heat exchanger for heating an oxygen-containing gas before the oxygen-containing gas is supplied to the fuel cell stack, an evaporator for
evaporating water to produce a mixed fuel of water vapor and a raw fuel (fuel gas) chiefly containing hydrocarbon, and a reformer for reforming the mixed fuel to produce a reformed gas .
The fuel cell module, a fluid supply section, and an electrical equipment section are provided in a casing to form a fuel cell system. The fluid supply section contains a fuel gas supply apparatus for supplying the fuel gas, an oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus for supplying the oxygen-containing gas, and a water supply apparatus for supplying the water. The electrical equipment section contains an ECU (control device) for controlling power generation in the fuel cell module and an inverter (power converter) for converting generated electrical energy to electrical energy according to requirements specification.
For example, in a fuel cell power generator apparatus disclosed in Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2006- 086017 (hereinafter referred to as conventional technique 1), as shown in FIG. 5, a case 1001 contains a fuel cell 1002, a fuel reformer (not shown) for producing a fuel gas to be supplied to the fuel cell 1002, a gas supply apparatus 1003 for supplying a reformed gas to the fuel reformer, a water supply apparatus 1004 for supplying water to the fuel reformer, and a power converter 1005 for converting direct current electrical energy generated in the fuel cell 1002 into alternating current electrical energy, and supplying the alternating electrical energy to external loads.
The fuel cell 1002 and the fuel reformer are provided at upper positions of the case 1001, and the power converter 1005, the water supply apparatus 1004, and the gas supply apparatus 1003 are provided at lower positions of the case 1001 and arranged such that the gas supply apparatus 1003 is positioned between the power converter 1005 and the water supply apparatus 1004.
Further, in a fuel cell apparatus disclosed in Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2009-205825 (hereinafter referred to as conventional technique 2), as shown in FIG.
6, a partition member 1012 provided in an outer case 1011 divides the space in the outer case 1011 into a module compartment 1014 containing a fuel cell module 1013 and an auxiliary device compartment 1016 containing a raw fuel gas supply apparatus 1015.
An exhaust port 1017 is formed in a side wall of the outer case 1011, for discharging the air in the module compartment 1014. The module compartment 1014 and the exhaust port 1017 are connected by an exhaust channel 1018.
An air channel 1019 is formed in the partition member 1012, for supplying the air in the auxiliary device compartment
1016 to the module compartment 1014.
Further, in a fuel cell system disclosed in Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2011-119095 (hereinafter referred to as conventional technique 3), as shown in FIG.
7, a package 1021, a fuel cell 1022 for generating
electrical energy partially consuming a fuel gas and an oxygen-containing gas, and a power supply circuit 1023 are provided. The package 1021 is divided into a first chamber 1025 and a second chamber 1026 by a partition wall 1024.
The power supply circuit 1023 is provided in the first chamber 1025, and the fuel cell 1022 is provided in the second chamber 1026.
At the first chamber 1025, the package 1021 has a first air intake port 1027 for guiding the external air into the first chamber 1025, and a first exhaust port 1028 for discharging a gas in the first chamber 1025 to the outside of the first chamber 1025. At the first air intake port 1027 of the first chamber 1025, an air supply device (fan) 1029 for supplying the external air into the first chamber 1025 is provided.
Further, in a solid oxide fuel cell system disclosed in Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2011-204446
(hereinafter referred to as conventional technique 4), as shown in FIG. 8, a solid oxide fuel cell 1031, a housing 1032 containing the solid oxide fuel cell 1031, and a heat exchanger 1033 for producing hot water by heating water by heat exchange with an exhaust gas discharged from the solid oxide fuel cell 1031 is provided.
The housing 1032 has an exhaust gas discharge port 1034 for discharging the exhaust gas discharged from the heat exchanger 1033 to the outside, and deflection means 1035 for deflecting the exhaust gas discharged from the exhaust gas discharge port 1034. The exhaust gas discharged from the exhaust gas discharge port 1034 is discharged through the deflection means 1035 in oblique directions relative to the outer surface of the housing 1032. Summary of Invention
In the conventional technique 1, ventilation and cooling of the case 1001 are not considered. In the
structure, devices that are used at relatively low
temperature such as the power converter 1005 are thermally influenced undesirably. Further, the fuel cell 1002 and the fuel reformer are provided at upper positions of the case 1001, and the power converter 1005, the water supply
apparatus 1004, and the gas supply apparatus 1003 are provided at lower positions of the case 1001. Therefore, the size of the case 1001 in the height direction tends to be large, and the case 1001 cannot be installed stably.
Further, in the conventional technique 2, the space inside the outer case 1011 is divided into the module compartment 1014 containing the fuel cell module 1013, and the auxiliary device compartment 1016 containing various devices such as an air supply blower BR in addition to the raw fuel gas supply apparatus 1015. In the structure, in the auxiliary device compartment 1016, when leakage of the fuel gas occurs, the fuel gas may be sucked into the air supply blower BR undesirably. Moreover, the size of the outer case 1011 in the height direction tends to be large, and the outer case 1011 cannot be installed stably.
Further, in the conventional technique 3, in the second chamber 1026, an oxygen-containing gas supply device OS is provided above a fuel gas supply device FS. Therefore, it may be difficult to detect leakage of the fuel gas
undesirably. Further, since the power supply circuit 1023 is provided at the uppermost position of the package 1021, the power supply circuit 1023 tends to be thermally affected by other auxiliary devices. Further, dedicated ventilating devices are provided in the first chamber 1025 and the second chamber 1026, respectively. Thus, the structure is complicated uneconomically .
Furthermore, in the conventional technique 4, the fuel cell module including the solid oxide fuel cell 1031, a reformer, and an air preheter are provided at upper
positions of the housing 1032, and the heat exchanger 1033 and an inverter 1036 are provided at lower positions of the housing 1032. Therefore, the size of the housing 1032 in the height direction tends to be large, and the housing 1032 cannot be installed stably.
The present invention has been made to solve the problems of this type, and an object of the present
invention is to provide a fuel cell system having simple and economical structure in which the desired ventilating process is achieved, the size in the height direction is reduced suitably, and improvement in the stability of the installed fuel cell system is achieved.
The present invention relates to a fuel cell system including a fuel cell module for generating electrical energy by electrochemical reactions of a fuel gas and an oxygen-containing gas, a fuel gas supply apparatus for supplying the fuel gas to the fuel cell module, an oxygen- containing gas supply apparatus for supplying the oxygen- containing gas to the fuel cell module, a water supply apparatus for supplying water to the fuel cell module, a power converter for converting direct current electrical energy generated in the fuel cell module to electrical energy according to requirements specification, a control device for controlling an amount of electrical energy generated in the fuel cell module, and a casing containing the fuel cell module, the fuel gas supply apparatus, the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus, the water supply apparatus, the power converter, and the control device.
The casing is divided into a module section where the fuel cell module is provided, a first fluid supply section where the fuel gas supply apparatus is provided, a second fluid supply section where the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus and the water supply apparatus are provided, and an electrical equipment section where the power converter and the control device are provided. The module section and the second fluid supply section are provided between the first fluid supply section and the electrical equipment section, and the second fluid supply section is provided under the module section.
An air flow port is provided between the electrical equipment section and the second fluid supply section, for guiding air in the electrical equipment section to the second fluid supply section. An air supply port is provided in the electrical equipment section for guiding air outside the casing to inside of the casing. The first fluid supply section has an air discharge port and a ventilating fan for guiding air inside the casing to outside of the casing. A first ventilating channel and a second ventilating channel are formed inside the casing. The first ventilating channel extends from the air supply port to the electrical equipment section, an area above the module section, the first fluid supply section, and the air discharge port. The second ventilating channel extends from the air supply port to the electrical equipment section, the air flow port, and the second fluid supply section.
In the present invention, the first ventilating channel is formed inside the casing. The first ventilating channel extends from the air supply port to the electrical equipment section, the area above the module section, the first fluid supply section, and the air discharge port. In the
structure, after the air outside the casing cools the electrical equipment section which needs cooling most, the warmed air which is stagnant in the casing is discharged from the air discharge port to the outside of the casing. Thus, it becomes possible to reliably cool the electrical equipment section, and suitably maintain the temperature inside the casing at a suitable temperature.
Further, the second ventilating channel is formed inside the casing. The second ventilating channel extends from the air supply port to the electrical equipment
section, the air flow port, and the second fluid supply section. In the structure, after the air outside the casing cools the electrical equipment section which needs cooling most, the air is supplied to the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus. Thus, the warmed air which is stagnant in the casing is discharged from the air discharge port to the outside of the casing. Moreover, even if leakage of the fuel gas occurs, it becomes possible to reliably suppress the fuel gas from being sucked into the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus .
Further, in the present invention, the space inside the casing is divided into the module section where the fuel cell module is provided, the first fluid supply section where the fuel gas supply apparatus is provided, the second fluid supply section where the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus and the water supply apparatus are provided, and the electrical equipment section where the power converter and the control device are provided. Thus, the space in the casing is divided depending on the operating temperature and the function. In the structure, diffusion of heat and fluid is minimized. In terms of functionality, the optimum layout of the components is achieved.
Further, since the space in the casing is divided into the first fluid supply section where the fuel gas supply apparatus is provided and the second fluid supply section where the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus is
provided, even if leakage of the fuel gas from the fuel gas supply apparatus occurs, it is possible to prevent this fuel gas from being sucked into the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus .
Further, the first fluid supply section is provided on one side of the module section. Therefore, the first fluid supply section forms an outer wall section of the casing. Cooling of the first fluid supply section is facilitated, and the first fluid supply section does not become hot easily. Likewise, the electrical equipment section is provided on the other side of the module section.
Therefore, the electrical equipment section forms an outer wall section of the casing. Cooling of the electrical equipment section is facilitated, and the electrical
equipment section does not become hot easily.
Further, the second fluid supply section is provided under the module section. Therefore, the second fluid supply section forms a lower wall section of the casing.
Cooling of the second fluid supply section is facilitated, and the second fluid supply section does not become hot easily.
Thus, the thermal influence on the first fluid supply section and the second fluid supply section, including components which need to be used at relatively low temperature, such as pumps, and the electrical equipment section including the control device is prevented as much as possible. Therefore, functions of the components in the first fluid supply section, the second fluid supply section, and the electrical equipment section are favorably
maintained, and the components are operated reliably.
The second fluid supply section forms the lower wall section of the casing. In particular, the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus having a large volume and a large weight is provided at a lower position of the fuel cell system. Thus, the center of gravity of the fuel cell system is lowered as a whole, and improvement in the stability of the installed fuel cell system is achieved suitably.
Further, the module section is provided between the first fluid supply section and the electrical equipment section. In the structure, the size of the casing in a lateral direction in which the first fluid supply section, the module section, and the electrical equipment section are arranged is increased, but the sizes of the casing in a depth direction and a height direction intersecting with this lateral direction are reduced effectively.
Accordingly, significant improvement is achieved in
installation of the casing.
Further, since the first fluid supply section, the module section, and the electrical equipment section are provided alongside in the lateral direction, components in the first fluid supply section, the module section, and the electrical equipment section can be accessed and maintenance (or repair) operation for these components can be performed from the front side. Accordingly, improvement in the maintenance operation is achieved easily.
Brief Description of Drawings
FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing structure of a fuel cell system according to an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a perspective view schematically showing the fuel cell system as viewed from one side of the fuel cell system;
FIG. 3 is a perspective view schematically showing the fuel cell system as viewed from another side of the fuel cell system;
FIG. 4 is a front view schematically showing the fuel cell system;
FIG. 5 is a perspective view schematically showing a fuel cell power generator apparatus of the conventional technique 1 ;
FIG. 6 is a front view schematically showing a fuel cell apparatus of the conventional technique 2 ;
FIG. 7 is a front view schematically showing a fuel cell system of the conventional technique 3; and
FIG. 8 is a front view schematically showing a solid oxide fuel cell system of the conventional technique 4.
Description of Embodiments
As shown in FIG. 1, a fuel cell system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is used in a
stationary application. However, the fuel cell system 10 can be used in various applications. For example, the fuel cell system 10 may be mounted in a vehicle.
The fuel cell system 10 includes a fuel cell module (SOFC module) 12 for generating electrical energy in power generation by electrochemical reactions of a fuel gas (e.g., mixed gas of a hydrogen gas, methane, and carbon monoxide) and an oxygen-containing gas (e.g., air), a fuel gas supply apparatus 14 for supplying a raw fuel (e.g., city gas) chiefly containing hydrocarbon as the fuel gas to the fuel cell module 12, an oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus 16 for supplying the oxygen-containing gas to the fuel cell module 12, a water supply apparatus 18 for supplying water to the fuel cell module 12, a power converter 20 for
converting the direct current electrical energy generated in the fuel cell module 12 to electrical energy according to the requirements specification, and a control device 22 for controlling the amount of electrical energy generated in the fuel cell module 12. The fuel cell module 12, the fuel gas supply apparatus 14, the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus 16, the water supply apparatus 18, the power converter 20, and the control device 22 are disposed in a single casing 24 (see FIGS. 2 to 4).
As shown in FIG. 1, the fuel cell module 12 includes a fuel cell stack 28 formed by stacking a plurality of solid oxide fuel cells 26 in a vertical direction (or in a
horizontal direction) . The fuel cells 26 are formed by stacking electrolyte electrode assemblies (MEA) 30 and separators 32. Though not shown, each of the electrolyte electrode assemblies 30 includes a cathode, an anode, and a solid electrolyte (solid oxide) interposed between the cathode and the anode. For example, the solid electrolyte is made of ion-conductive oxide such as stabilized zirconia.
The fuel cell module 12 includes a reformer 34 for reforming a mixed gas of a raw fuel and water vapor to produce a fuel gas (reformed gas) and supplying the fuel gas to the fuel cell stack 28, an evaporator 36 for evaporating water and supplying the water vapor to the reformer 34, a heat exchanger 38 for raising the temperature of the oxygen- containing gas by heat exchange with a combustion gas and supplying the oxygen-containing gas to the fuel cell stack 28, an exhaust gas combustor 40 for combusting the fuel gas discharged from the fuel cell stack 28 as a fuel exhaust gas and the oxygen-containing gas discharged from the fuel cell stack 28 as an oxygen-containing exhaust gas to produce the combustion gas, and a start-up combustor 42 for combusting the raw fuel and the oxygen-containing gas to produce the combustion gas.
The fuel gas supply apparatus 14 has a raw fuel channel 44 for supplying a city gas (13A) to the reformer 34. A pair of regulator valves 46a, 46b is provided at positions somewhere in the raw fuel channel 44, and a pressure
regulator 48 is interposed between the regulator valves 46a, 46b. In the raw fuel channel 44, a fuel pump 50 is provided downstream of the regulator valve 46b. Further, a buffer tank 52, a flow rate sensor 54, and a desulfurizer 56 are provided downstream of the fuel pump 50, successively. In the raw fuel channel 44, a raw fuel branch channel 58 is provided between the regulator valve 46a and the pressure regulator 48. The raw fuel branch channel 58 is connected to a start-up combustor 42, and a regulator valve 46c is provided somewhere in the raw fuel branch channel 58. The oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus 16 has an air supply pipe 60. A dust collecting filter 62, a flow rate sensor 64, and an air pump 66 are provided along the air supply pipe 60 from the upstream side to the downstream side. The air supply pipe 60 is connected to the heat exchanger 38. An air branch channel 68 is branched from the air supply pipe 60. A burner blower 70 is provided in the air branch channel 68, and the air branch channel 68 is connected to the start-up combustor 42. For example, the start-up combustor 42 has a burner. As described above, the raw fuel and the air are supplied to the start-up combustor 42.
The water supply apparatus 18 has a condensed water tank 72. A water level sensor 74 is provided at the
condensed water tank 72, and a water channel 76 is connected to a lower position of the condensed water tank 72. The water channel 76 is connected to the evaporator 36. An ion exchanger 78, a pure water pump 80, and a flow rate sensor 82 are provided at positions somewhere in the water channel 76 from the upstream side to the downstream side. A hot water storage heat exchanger 84 is connected to the
condensed water tank 72 through a discharge water channel 86.
The hot water storage heat exchanger 84 is connected to the heat exchanger 38 through an exhaust pipe 88. At the heat exchanger 38, a partially-consumed reactant gas
discharged from the fuel cell stack 28 (hereinafter also referred to as the exhaust gas or combustion exhaust gas ) and the air as heated fluid flow in a counterflow manner for heat exchange between these gases. The exhaust gas after the heat exchange is discharged into the exhaust pipe 88, and the air after the heat exchange is supplied to the fuel cell stack 28 as the oxygen-containing gas.
The hot water storage heat exchanger 84 is connected to a hot water supply pipe 92 extending from a hot water tank (hot water supply tank) 91 of a hot water server 90. A hot water supply pump 96 is provided in the hot water supply pipe 92 for supplying water at low temperature to the hot water storage heat exchanger 84. At the hot water storage heat exchanger 84, heat exchange between the supplied water and the exhaust gas is performed. The heated hot water is returned from a hot water supply pipe 92a to the hot water tank 91. A rated exhaust pipe (pipe which is exposed to the atmosphere during the rated operation) 100 and a drain pipe 102 are connected to the condensed water tank 72.
As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the casing 24 has a
rectangular shape. As shown in FIG. 4, the space in the casing 24 is divided into a module section 110, a first fluid supply section 112, a second fluid supply section 114, and an electrical equipment section 116. The fuel cell module 12 is provided in the module section 110, the fuel gas supply apparatus 14 is provided in the first fluid supply section 112, the oxygen-containing gas supply
apparatus 16 and the water supply apparatus 18 are provided in the second fluid supply section 114, and the power converter 20 and the control device 22 are provided in the electrical equipment section 116.
The module section 110, the first fluid supply section 112, the second fluid supply section 114, and the electrical equipment section 116 may be separated from one another using partition members. Alternatively, the module section 110, the first fluid supply section 112, the second fluid supply section 114, and the electrical equipment section 116 may be provided spatially separately in four areas by appearance. In the present embodiment, a vertical partition plate 118 extending vertically is provided in the casing 24 as a partition of the electrical equipment section 116. A base table 120 having an L- shape in cross section is
provided at a lower position of the vertical partition plate 118. A short vertical partition plate 122 is provided adjacent to the first fluid supply section 112.
The module section 110 and the second fluid supply section 114 are provided between the first fluid supply section 112 and the electrical equipment section 116. The second fluid supply section 114 is provided under the module section 110. An air flow port 124 for guiding the air in the electrical equipment section 116 to the second fluid supply section 114 is provided between the electrical equipment section 116 and the second fluid supply section 114, i.e., in the vertical partition plate 118. The
electrical equipment section 116 has an air supply port 126 for guiding the air outside the casing 24 into the casing 24. The air supply port 126 is formed in a side surface of the casing 24. The first fluid supply section 112 has an air discharge port 128 and a ventilating fan 130 for guiding the air inside the casing 24 to the outside of the casing 24. The air discharge port 128 is formed in a side surface of the casing 24.
A first ventilating channel 132 and a second
ventilating channel 134 are formed inside the casing 24. The first ventilating channel 132 extends from the air supply port 126 to the electrical equipment section 116, an area above the module section 110, the first fluid supply section 112, and the air discharge port 128. The second ventilating channel 134 extends from the air supply port 126 to the electrical equipment section 116, the air flow port 124, and the second fluid supply section 114.
In the first fluid supply section 112, a fuel gas detector 136 for detecting leakage of the fuel gas, the desulfurizer 56 for removing sulfur component from the fuel gas, the fuel gas supply apparatus 14, the hot water storage heat exchanger 84 for performing heat exchange between the exhaust gas discharged from the fuel cell module 12 and the hot water supplied from the hot water tank 91, and the hot water supply pump 96 are provided.
In the second fluid supply section 114, the oxygen- containing gas supply apparatus 16, the condensed water tank 72 for storing condensed water obtained from the exhaust gas discharged from the fuel cell module 12, the ion exchanger 78 for removing impurities contained in the condensed water, and the water supply apparatus 18 are provided.
In the electrical equipment section 116, the power converter 20 is provided above the control device 22. The ventilating fan 130 is provided between the hot water storage heat exchanger 84 and the air discharge port 128. A beam plate 140 is provided above the module section 110, and a cable 138 connecting the first fluid supply section 112 and the electrical equipment section 116 is placed on the beam plate 140.
Operation of the fuel cell system 10 will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, at the time of starting operation of the fuel cell system 10, by operation of the fuel gas supply apparatus 14, for example, a raw fuel such as the city gas (including CH4, C2H6, C3H8, C4Hi0) is supplied to the raw fuel channel 44. The raw fuel from the raw fuel channel 44 flows through the raw fuel branch channel 58, and the raw fuel is supplied to the start-up combustor 42. In the meanwhile, in the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus 16, by operation of the burner blower 70 , the air flows through the air branch channel 68, and the air is supplied to the start-up combustor 42.
Therefore, the mixed gas of the raw fuel and the air is supplied into the start-up combustor 42, and the mixed gas is ignited to start combustion. Thus, the combustion gas is supplied to the heat exchanger 38, the reformer 34, and the evaporator 36 to heat (raise the temperature of) the heat exchanger 38, the reformer 34, and the evaporator 36.
Then, in the fuel gas supply apparatus 14, the fuel pump 50 is driven to supply the raw fuel from the raw fuel channel 44 to the desulfurizer 56. After sulfur is removed from the raw fuel at the desulfurizer 56, the raw fuel is supplied to the reformer 34. In the water supply apparatus 18, the water supplied to the water channel 76 through the pure water pump 80 is evaporated by the evaporator 36, and the water vapor is supplied to the reformer 34.
The mixed fuel of the raw fuel and the water vapor undergoes steam reforming in the reformer 34. Thus,
hydrocarbon of C2+ is removed (reformed) , and a reformed gas chiefly containing methane is obtained. The reformed gas is supplied to the fuel cell stack 28. Thus, the methane in the reformed gas is reformed, and the hydrogen gas is obtained. The fuel gas chiefly containing the hydrogen gas is supplied to the anodes (not shown) .
In the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus 16, by operation of the air pump 66, the air is supplied to the air supply pipe 60. This air is supplied to the heat exchanger 38. While the air is moving along the heat exchanger 38, heat exchange between the air and the exhaust gas as
described later is performed, and the air is heated to the determined temperature beforehand. The air heated by the heat exchanger 38 flows into the fuel cell stack 28, and the air is supplied to cathodes (not shown).
Thus, in each of the electrolyte electrode assemblies 30 , electrochemical reactions of the fuel gas and the air are induced for generating electricity. The hot exhaust gas (at several hundred °C) discharged from each of the
electrolyte electrode assemblies 30 flows through the heat exchanger 38 for heat exchange with the air. The exhaust gas heats the air to a desired temperature, and the
temperature of the exhaust gas is decreased.
The exhaust gas is supplied to the evaporator 36 to evaporate water. After the exhaust gas passes through the evaporator 36, the exhaust gas is supplied to the hot water storage heat exchanger 84 through the exhaust pipe 88.
Water at low temperature is supplied from the hot water tank 91 of the hot water server 90 to the hot water storage heat exchanger 84. In the hot water server 90, by operation of the hot water supply pump 96, water is supplied to the hot water supply pipe 92. The water flows into the hot water storage heat exchanger 84 for heat exchange with the exhaust gas . Thus , the heated hot water returns from the hot water supply pipe 92a to the hot water tank 91, and the hot water is utilized for home use.
In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, the first ventilating channel 132 is formed inside the casing 24. The first ventilating channel 132 extends from the air supply port 126 to the electrical equipment section 116, the area above the module section 110, the first fluid supply section 112, and the air discharge port 128. In the
structure, by operation of the ventilating fan 130, after the air outside the casing 24 cools the electrical equipment section 116 which needs cooling most, the warmed air which is stagnant in the casing 24 is discharged from the air discharge port 128 to the outside of the casing 24. Thus, it becomes possible to reliably cool the electrical
equipment section 116, and suitably maintain the temperature inside the casing 24 at a suitable temperature.
Further, the second ventilating channel 134 is formed inside the casing 24. The second ventilating channel 134 extends to the air flow port 124 and the second fluid supply section 114. In the structure, after the air outside the casing 24 cools the electrical equipment section 116 which needs cooling most, by operation of the air pump 66, the air is supplied to the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus 16. Thus, the warmed air which is stagnant in the casing 24 can be discharged to the outside of the casing 24.
Moreover, even if leakage of the fuel gas occurs, it becomes possible to reliably suppress the fuel gas from being sucked into the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus 16.
Further, as shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, the space inside the casing 24 is divided into the module section 110 where the fuel cell module 12 is provided, the first fluid supply section 112 where the fuel gas supply apparatus 14 is provided, the second fluid supply section 114 where the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus 16 and the water supply apparatus 18 are provided, and the electrical equipment section 116 where the power converter 20 and the control device 22 are provided. Thus, the space in the casing 24 is divided depending on the operating temperature and the functions. In the structure, diffusion of heat and fluid is minimized. In terms of functionality, optimum layout of the components is achieved.
Further, since the space in the casing 24 is divided into the first fluid supply section 112 where the fuel gas supply apparatus 14 is provided and the second fluid supply section 114 where the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus 16 is provided, even if leakage of the fuel gas from the fuel gas supply apparatus 14 occurs, it is possible to prevent this fuel gas from being sucked into the oxygen- containing gas supply apparatus 16.
Further, the first fluid supply section 112 is provided on one side of the module section 110. Therefore, the first fluid supply section 112 forms an outer wall section of the casing 24. Cooling of the first fluid supply section 112 is facilitated, and the first fluid supply section 112 does not become hot easily. Likewise, the electrical equipment section 116 is provided on the other side of the module section 110. Therefore, the electrical equipment section 116 forms an outer wall section of the casing 24. Cooling of the electrical equipment section 116 is facilitated, and the electrical equipment section 116 does not become hot easily.
Further, the second fluid supply section 114 is
provided under the module section 110. Therefore, the second fluid supply section 114 forms a lower wall section of the casing 24. Cooling of the second fluid supply section 114 is facilitated, and the second fluid supply section 114 does not become hot easily.
Thus, the thermal influence on the first fluid supply section 112 and the second fluid supply section 114, including components which need to be used at relatively low temperature, such as pumps (the fuel pump 50 and the air pump 66), and the electrical equipment section 116 including the control device 22 is prevented as much as possible.
Therefore, functions of the components in the first fluid supply section 112, the second fluid supply section 114, and the electrical equipment section 116 are favorably
maintained, and the components are operated reliably.
The second fluid supply section 114 forms the lower wall section of the casing 24. In particular, the oxygen- containing gas supply apparatus 16 having a large volume and a large weight is provided at a lower position of the fuel cell system 10. Thus, the center of gravity of the fuel cell system 10 is lowered as a whole, and improvement in the stability of the installed fuel cell system 10 is achieved suitably.
Further, the module section 110 is provided between the first fluid supply section 112 and the electrical equipment section 116. In the structure, the size of the casing 24 in a lateral direction in which the first fluid supply section 112, the module section 110, and the electrical equipment section 116 are arranged is increased, but the sizes of the casing 24 in a depth direction and a height direction intersecting with this lateral direction are reduced
effectively. Accordingly, significant improvement is achieved in installation of the casing 24.
Further, since the first fluid supply section 112, the module section 110, and the electrical equipment section 116 are provided alongside in the lateral direction, components in the first fluid supply section 112, the module section 110, and the electrical equipment section 116 can be
accessed. Thus, maintenance (or repair) operation for these components can be performed from the front side.
Accordingly, improvement in the performance of maintenance operation is achieved easily.
Further, in the first fluid supply section 112, the fuel gas detector 136 for detecting leakage of the fuel gas, the desulfurizer 56 for removing sulfur component from the fuel gas, the fuel gas supply apparatus 14, and the hot water storage heat exchanger 84 for performing heat exchange between the exhaust gas discharged from the fuel cell module 12 and the hot water supplied from the hot water tank 91 are provided .
In the structure, all of the devices related to the fuel gas are provided locally in the first fluid supply section 112 as a single compartment, and it is possible to detect leakage of the fuel gas swiftly and reliably.
Further, the outside air flows along the first ventilating channel 132, from the air supply port 126 to the electrical equipment section 116, then, to the area above the module section 110, then, to the first fluid supply section 112, and then, to the air discharge port 128. Therefore, stagnation of the warmed air in the first fluid supply section 112 does not occur easily, and it becomes possible to maintain the first fluid supply section 112 at the desired temperature.
Further, in the second fluid supply section 114, the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus 16, the condensed water tank 72 for storing the condensed water obtained from the exhaust gas discharged from the fuel cell module 12, the ion exchanger 78 for removing impurities contained in the condensed water, and the water supply apparatus 18 are provided.
In the structure, devices having large volume and weight, and water related devices are provided at lower positions of the fuel cell system 10. Thus, the center of gravity of the fuel cell system 10 is lowered as a whole, and improvement in the stability of the installed fuel cell system 10 is achieved suitably. Further, it becomes
possible to suppress the influence due to the occurrence of water leakage.
Furthermore, in the electrical equipment section 116, the power converter 20 is provided above the control device 22. Therefore, in the electrical equipment section 116, since the heat of the power converter 20 is removed lastly, the control device 22 is not exposed to the hot temperature, and the electrical equipment section 116 can be maintained at the desired temperature.
Further, the ventilating fan 130 is provided between the hot water storage heat exchanger 84 and the air discharge port 128. Therefore, the heat released from the hot water storage heat exchanger 84 is not retained in the first fluid supply section 112 easily. Thus, it becomes possible to maintain the first fluid supply section 112 at the desired temperature.
Further, the beam plate 140 is provided above the module section 110, and the cable 138 connecting the first fluid supply section 112 and the electrical equipment section 116 is placed on the beam plate 140. In the
structure, since the cable 138 does not contact the fuel cell module 12 and heat radiation from the beam plate 140 is facilitated, the cable 138 does not become hot
significantly .
Further, the fuel cell module 12 is advantageous when it is a solid oxide fuel cell module, i.e., a fuel cell module including a high temperature type fuel cell.
However, instead of the solid oxide fuel cell module, the present invention is also suitably applicable to the other types of high temperature fuel cell modules and medium temperature fuel cell modules. For example, molten- carbonate fuel cells (MCFC), phosphoric acid fuel cells (PAFC), and hydrogen membrane fuel cells (H FC) can be adopted suitably.
While the invention has been particularly shown and described with reference to preferred embodiments, it will be understood that variations and modifications can be effected thereto by those skilled in the art without
departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims .

Claims

Claim 1. A fuel cell system (10) comprising:
a fuel cell module (12) for generating electrical energy by electrochemical reactions of a fuel gas and an oxyge -containing gas;
a fuel gas supply apparatus (14) for supplying the fuel gas to the fuel cell module (12);
an oxyge -containing gas supply apparatus (16) for supplying the oxygen-containing gas to the fuel cell module (12);
a water supply apparatus (18) for supplying water to the fuel cell module (12);
a power converter (20) for converting direct current electrical energy generated in the fuel cell module (12) to electrical energy according to requirements specification; a control device (22) for controlling an amount of electrical energy generated in the fuel cell module (12); and
a casing (24) containing the fuel cell module (12), the fuel gas supply apparatus (14), the oxyge -containing gas supply apparatus (16), the water supply apparatus (18), the power converter (20), and the control device (22),
wherein the casing (24) is divided into a module section (110) where the fuel cell module (12) is provided, a first fluid supply section (112) where the fuel gas supply apparatus (14) is provided, a second fluid supply section (114) where the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus (16) and the water supply apparatus (18) are provided, and an electrical equipment section (116) where the power converter (20) and the control device (22) are provided;
the module section (110) and the second fluid supply section (114) are provided between the first fluid supply section (112) and the electrical equipment section (116), and the second fluid supply section (114) is provided under the module section (110);
an air flow port (124) is provided between the
electrical equipment section (116) and the second fluid supply section (114), for guiding air in the electrical equipment section (116) to the second fluid supply section (114);
an air supply port (126) is provided in the electrical equipment section (116) for guiding air outside the casing (24) to inside of the casing (24);
the first fluid supply section (112) has an air
discharge port (128) and a ventilating fan (130) for guiding air inside the casing (24) to outside of the casing (24); and
a first ventilating channel (132) and a second
ventilating channel (134) are formed inside the casing (24), the first ventilating channel (132) extending from the air supply port (126) to the electrical equipment section (116), an area above the module section (110), the first fluid supply section (112), and the air discharge port
(128), and
the second ventilating channel (134) extending from the air supply port (126) to the electrical equipment section (116), the air flow port (124), and the second fluid supply section (114).
Claim 2. The fuel cell system according to claim 1 , wherein the first fluid supply section (112) comprises:
a fuel gas detector (136) for detecting leakage of the fuel gas ;
a desulfurizer (56) for removing sulfur component from the fuel gas;
the fuel gas supply apparatus (14); and
a hot water storage heat exchanger (84) for performing heat exchange between an exhaust gas discharged from the fuel cell module (12) and hot water supplied from a hot water tank (91).
Claim 3. The fuel cell system according to claim 1, wherein the second fluid supply section (114) comprises: the oxygen-containing gas supply apparatus (16);
a condensed water tank (72) for storing condensed water obtained from an exhaust gas discharged from the fuel cell module (12);
an ion exchanger (78) for removing impurities contained in the condensed water; and
the water supply apparatus (18).
Claim 4. The fuel cell system according to claim 1 , wherein in the electrical equipment section (116), the power converter (20) is provided above the control device (22).
Claim 5. The fuel cell system according to claim 2, wherein the ventilating fan (130) is provided between the hot water storage heat exchanger (84) and the air discharge port (128).
Claim 6. The fuel cell system according to claim 1 , wherein a beam plate (140) is provided above the module section (110), and a cable (138) connecting the first fluid supply section (112) and the electrical equipment section (116) is placed on the beam plate (140).
Claim 7. The fuel cell system according to claim 1 wherein the fuel cell module (12) is a solid oxide fuel module .
PCT/JP2014/053570 2013-03-06 2014-02-10 Fuel cell system WO2014136553A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
JP2013-044300 2013-03-06
JP2013044300A JP6068202B2 (en) 2013-03-06 2013-03-06 Fuel cell system

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2014136553A1 true WO2014136553A1 (en) 2014-09-12

Family

ID=50236238

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/JP2014/053570 WO2014136553A1 (en) 2013-03-06 2014-02-10 Fuel cell system

Country Status (2)

Country Link
JP (1) JP6068202B2 (en)
WO (1) WO2014136553A1 (en)

Cited By (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP3382784A1 (en) * 2017-03-27 2018-10-03 Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha Fuel cell unit comprising casing incorporating fuel cell stack and electrical component
US10155452B2 (en) * 2014-02-24 2018-12-18 Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft Fuel cell system having a fuel cell stack arranged in a housing, and a measure for ventilating the housing
CN109478661A (en) * 2016-08-02 2019-03-15 大日工业株式会社 Fuel-cell device
CN112526358A (en) * 2021-02-07 2021-03-19 佛山市格美清洁设备有限公司 Test equipment applied to environment test of fuel cell of sweeper and control method
WO2022223537A1 (en) * 2021-04-19 2022-10-27 Genevos Sas A fuel cell power module
WO2024073819A1 (en) * 2022-10-06 2024-04-11 Energys Australia Pty Ltd Modular energy generation unit

Families Citing this family (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP6399953B2 (en) * 2015-03-09 2018-10-03 本田技研工業株式会社 Fuel cell module
JP5900690B1 (en) * 2015-08-25 2016-04-06 富士電機株式会社 Heat pump steam generator
JP6820497B2 (en) * 2016-08-03 2021-01-27 パナソニックＩｐマネジメント株式会社 Fuel cell system
JP6865389B2 (en) * 2018-01-24 2021-04-28 パナソニックＩｐマネジメント株式会社 Fuel cell system
JP7018010B2 (en) * 2018-11-16 2022-02-09 本田技研工業株式会社 Fuel cell system

Citations (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2003208915A (en) * 2002-01-15 2003-07-25 Ebara Ballard Corp Fuel cell power generating system
JP2006086017A (en) 2004-09-16 2006-03-30 Kyocera Corp Fuel cell power generator
JP2008258024A (en) * 2007-04-05 2008-10-23 Honda Motor Co Ltd Package type fuel cell
JP2009205825A (en) 2008-02-26 2009-09-10 Kyocera Corp Fuel cell device
EP2328219A1 (en) * 2008-09-08 2011-06-01 Honda Motor Co., Ltd. Fuel cell system
JP2011119095A (en) 2009-12-02 2011-06-16 Panasonic Corp Fuel cell system
JP2011204446A (en) 2010-03-25 2011-10-13 Osaka Gas Co Ltd Solid oxide fuel cell system
US20120295173A1 (en) * 2007-12-05 2012-11-22 Panasonic Corporation Fuel cell power generation system

Family Cites Families (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP3837383B2 (en) * 2002-01-29 2006-10-25 三洋電機株式会社 Fuel cell power supply
JP5042143B2 (en) * 2007-12-05 2012-10-03 パナソニック株式会社 Fuel cell power generation system
JP5026383B2 (en) * 2008-10-09 2012-09-12 パナソニック株式会社 Fuel cell power generation system

Patent Citations (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2003208915A (en) * 2002-01-15 2003-07-25 Ebara Ballard Corp Fuel cell power generating system
JP2006086017A (en) 2004-09-16 2006-03-30 Kyocera Corp Fuel cell power generator
JP2008258024A (en) * 2007-04-05 2008-10-23 Honda Motor Co Ltd Package type fuel cell
US20120295173A1 (en) * 2007-12-05 2012-11-22 Panasonic Corporation Fuel cell power generation system
JP2009205825A (en) 2008-02-26 2009-09-10 Kyocera Corp Fuel cell device
EP2328219A1 (en) * 2008-09-08 2011-06-01 Honda Motor Co., Ltd. Fuel cell system
JP2011119095A (en) 2009-12-02 2011-06-16 Panasonic Corp Fuel cell system
JP2011204446A (en) 2010-03-25 2011-10-13 Osaka Gas Co Ltd Solid oxide fuel cell system

Cited By (12)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US10155452B2 (en) * 2014-02-24 2018-12-18 Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft Fuel cell system having a fuel cell stack arranged in a housing, and a measure for ventilating the housing
CN109478661A (en) * 2016-08-02 2019-03-15 大日工业株式会社 Fuel-cell device
US20190173118A1 (en) * 2016-08-02 2019-06-06 Dainichi Co., Ltd. Fuel cell apparatus
EP3496197A4 (en) * 2016-08-02 2020-04-01 Dainichi Co., Ltd. Fuel battery device
CN109478661B (en) * 2016-08-02 2022-05-17 大日工业株式会社 Fuel cell device
US11362362B2 (en) 2016-08-02 2022-06-14 Dainichi Co., Ltd. Fuel cell apparatus
EP3382784A1 (en) * 2017-03-27 2018-10-03 Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha Fuel cell unit comprising casing incorporating fuel cell stack and electrical component
RU2677822C1 (en) * 2017-03-27 2019-01-21 Тойота Дзидося Кабусики Кайся Fuel cell stack
CN112526358A (en) * 2021-02-07 2021-03-19 佛山市格美清洁设备有限公司 Test equipment applied to environment test of fuel cell of sweeper and control method
CN112526358B (en) * 2021-02-07 2021-05-14 佛山市格美清洁设备有限公司 Test equipment applied to environment test of fuel cell of sweeper and control method
WO2022223537A1 (en) * 2021-04-19 2022-10-27 Genevos Sas A fuel cell power module
WO2024073819A1 (en) * 2022-10-06 2024-04-11 Energys Australia Pty Ltd Modular energy generation unit

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
JP2014175081A (en) 2014-09-22
JP6068202B2 (en) 2017-01-25

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
WO2014136553A1 (en) Fuel cell system
EP2697854B1 (en) Fuel cell module
US8679689B2 (en) Fuel cell system
US8883362B2 (en) Fuel cell system
US8227119B2 (en) Fuel cell system
US9660282B2 (en) Fuel cell system and method of controlling the fuel cell system
US20150125765A1 (en) Fuel cell system
US9515339B2 (en) Fuel cell system ion exchanger
EP2127012A1 (en) Fuel cell system
WO2010123146A1 (en) Method of controlling a fuel cell system
US9537163B2 (en) Fuel cell system and method of controlling the fuel cell system
US9444114B2 (en) Fuel cell system
EP2697853B1 (en) Fuel cell module
JP3477926B2 (en) Solid polymer electrolyte fuel cell
US8728673B2 (en) Fuel cell system
US8685577B2 (en) Fuel cell system and method of controlling the fuel cell system
JP2008235109A (en) Fuel cell system
JP2008235094A (en) Fuel cell system
US9246180B2 (en) Fuel cell module
JP6650812B2 (en) Starting combustor and fuel cell system using the starting combustor
JP2009048912A (en) Fuel cell system

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 14708341

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase

Ref document number: 14708341

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1