Development of High Efficiency Steel Cell Technology for Multiple Applications

Abstract

Ceres Power’s SteelCell low-temperature metal-supported SOFC technology has historically been developed to meet the requirements of 1kWe-scale micro-CHP applications. The maturity and outstanding performance demonstrated for that application means Ceres is now deploying SteelCell technology in higher power systems with partners for stationary power and automotive applications. Multiple development streams are being pursued to achieve the objectives of high efficiency (60%) and long life needed for prime power applications. This paper will discuss the progress being made to demonstrate the improvements to the fuel cell design to enhance efficiency, life, volumetric power density and fuel utilization consistent with the requirements of larger power generation units, including the development of integrated compact 5kWe stacks, power degradation rates of <0.2%/kh, DC stack efficiency of >65% and complete internal steam reforming of methane without an external reformer.