VTT Develops SOFC Fuel Cell System

(SOFC) is a promising technology for future power generation. VTT has built a system, which is produced from natural gas fuel cell power system. The system is unique in that it produces electric power can be achieved in one 10-kilowatt SOFC trays. Technology developed as part of Tekes Fuel Cell Programme.

In order for large, size class of hundreds of kilowatts SOFC construction equipment will have a reasonable need for high-capacity trays. This is the first time that the output of 10 kilowatts planaariteknologiaan based SOFC fuel cell system being tested in real conditions.

SOFC fuel cell technology has a very low-emission energy source. SOFC plant can be used flexibly to a wide range of fuels - including biogas, which is otherwise difficult to exploit. VTT system as fuel is natural gas.

Currently, the system is long-term tests designed to ascertain the reliability of its components, the life and developmental needs. The system has worked since the beginning of November more than 1,400 hours of reliable and uninterrupted. Electricity is produced in five blocks of flats have compared the average annual consumption. VTT to build a prototype has been developed components that are not yet in mass production.

VTT to coordinate the mass, the Tekes project cost sharing is involved in University and the Aalto University. University of Technology has developed a system of power electronics, which are converted honeycomb produced by DC verkkokelpoiseksi alternating voltage. Aalto University is a unit involved in mechanical design. Honeycomb system has provided the Canadian Versa Power Systems, Inc.

Finnish companies are involved in the project, except that donors, including developing and researching the experience of companies' own products compatible with SOFC systems. Inter alia, Wärtsilä Finland Oy, take advantage of the research project receives its own experience with a larger class SOFC power systems development.