The solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) is a promising solution for the energy transition towards a sustainable hydrogen economy. With its operating temperature of at least 650 °C, the SOFC is considered a high-temperature fuel cell. The reaction of oxygen with hydrogen produces both electrical and thermal energy. This makes the SOFC suitable for supplying electricity and hot water, making it particularly efficient.
Based on many years of experience in developing stationary and mobile SOFC solutions, AVL provides comprehensive solutions for validation. We cover the entire development process, from the simulation of individual components or systems to system optimization and test bed solutions.
Over the past 20 years, we have gained a great deal of experience in SOFC development and have carried out around 100 development projects for the validation of robust products. In doing so, we have revolutionized the way SOFC solutions are tested. We raised test infrastructure such as test benches to the level of standardized modules.
Hardware and software solutions for SOFC test beds
In a system, the unit under test (UUT) or device under test (DUT) is the stack or module along with the complete BoP. The output power is typically DC for automotive or mobile applications and AC for grid-connected applications. System test beds are to be used to perform performance testing of your final system and to determine operating strategies for the highest possible efficiency on the one hand, and also to identify those areas that are causing degradation or underutilization of your system. To perform all these activities, we offer hardware and software tools for test beds together with our dedicated test bed automation.
Simulation and emulation
One of the biggest challenges when starting an SOFC development program from scratch is co-simulation and emulation. We overcome these challenges because of our intensive SOFC research.
With this background knowledge and our sophisticated simulation toolchain, we first use virtual models and later replace them with actual hardware components. We link these simulation capabilities to our various test benches.
We believe in SOFC technology because it will enable a major leap in efficiency through the intelligent use of resources. This great potential for cost and energy efficiency makes SOFC a technology that has a great future ahead of it.
- Dr. Vikrant Venkataraman, Development Engineer Hydraulics, AVL
We can also help you with the design and development of your own SOFC laboratory. Our services vary on different levels namely, we can offer consultancy, engineering, management and equipment procurement and systems integration.
On the consultancy level, we would carry out feasibility and financial studies, estimate construction costs, carry out an environmental impact study and propose implementation plans.
On the engineering level, depending on the customer’s requirement, we carry out a preliminary study which is then followed by a definitive and detailed study.
A gas conditioning and consumption solution for hydrogen and other gaseous fuels. Learn more about this dedicated product to safely supply and condition gases for the testbed usage.
Our engineering teams work on fuel cell development and testing for leading manufacturers and research institutions around the world. From passenger cars to HD truck application to stationary CHP units for small and large applications, we have innovated the development methodology and standardized the required tools.
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