Evaluation of SOFC Durability Against Simultaneous Heat/Load Fluctuations

Abstract

Variable renewable energy sources (solar, wind, etc.) are difficult to maintain efficient hierarchical operation and stable power quality from the perspective of the power system. In preparation for this increase in the proportion of renewable energy, it is necessary to prepare counterplan for power system intelligence and flexibility, such as power backup systems, power storage devices, smart control, and demand response. It is expected that control the volatility of renewable energy and supply-demand balance can be solved by producing/storing hydrogen using idle power and generating electricity using fuel cells. High-efficiency SOFC technology that can manage with daily cycle load fluctuations is the best alternative. In this work, the goal is to develop basic technologies for energy network systems that can respond to daily cycle power fluctuations of renewable energy and increase system stability through SOFC cell/stack design and durability enhancement. In this study, in order to secure the ability to cope with the variability of the power system, it is intended to present durability evaluation criteria for simultaneous heat and load cycles. Stack evaluation was performed in the current range of 0 ~ 0.25 A/cm2 in the case of the load cycle test and 500 ~ 700 °C in the case of the temperature cycle test.