This paper deals with the development of a control-oriented model for simulation of planar solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). A hierarchical modeling structure has been set-up to identify a simplified model that allows describing the dynamic behavior of an SOFC with satisfactory accuracy, affordable computational burden and limited amount of experimental data. Particularly in this work, a steady-state relationship that links cell voltage to current density and temperature has been inferred from a phenomenological 1-D model previously developed by the authors. Then, a first order model has been obtained by applying the conservation of energy principle (heat balance) to a lumped control volume that includes air and fuel channels, interconnect and solid tri-layer (i.e., electrolyte and electrodes). A state-space representation of the model also is presented, having the cell outlet temperature and the cell voltage as state and output variables, respectively. Model validation has been conducted by comparing the cell response to load (i.e., current density) variations with data generated by means of a physical comprehensive model previously published by Achenbach. Extensive simulation of the cell dynamic behavior has been performed in order to analyze the main system dynamics with respect to changes in cell temperature, load, excess air and fuel utilization. The results of this analysis will serve as a tool for both optimal design and sizing, as well as for the energy management of hybridized (i.e. supported by batteries or supercap) SOFC-based power generation systems.

Volume Subject Area:
Dynamic Systems and Technology
Topics:
Energy / power systems, Simulation, Solid oxide fuel cells, Temperature, Current density, Fuels, Stress, Design, Electrodes, Electrolytes, Energy conservation, Energy management, Heat, Model validation, Modeling, Steady state, System dynamics
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