Approaches for Optimum Thermal Management of SOFC Cells: Fitting Operating Conditions & Smart Cell Design

Abstract

In this work, the guidelines for the design of the thermal management of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) by means of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and numerical optimization tools are proposed. These approaches combine acting both on operating conditions and cell geometry. Initially, the influence of inlet gas flows is evaluated, describing how to optimize the flows while maximizing the energetic outcome. Afterwards, a description of how numerical methods can allow fitting feeding gas temperatures to avoid overheating is provided. Finally, we go a step further by optimizing interconnect plate geometries in order to minimize internal temperature gradients. All in all, a demonstration of how CFD studies can accelerate SOFC design in order to maximize performance and extend lifespan is provided.