Volume 11 Issue 7
Three-Dimensional CFD Modeling of Transport Phenomena in a Cross-Flow Anode-Supported Planar SOFC
Zhonggang Zhang,Jingfeng Chen,Danting Yue,Guogang Yang,Shuang Ye,Changrong He,Weiguo Wang,Jinliang Yuan andNaibao Huang
1Marine Engineering College, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian 116026, China
2Marine Engineering College, Jimei University, Xiamen 361021, China
3Ningbo Institute of Material Technology and Engineering (NIMTE), Chinese Academy of Science, Ningbo 315201, China
4Department of Energy Sciences, Lund University, Box 118, 22100 Lund, Sweden
5Transportation Equipment and Ocean Engineering College, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian 116026, China
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
In this study, a three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model is developed for an anode-supported planar SOFC from the Chinese Academy of Science Ningbo Institute of Material Technology and Engineering (NIMTE). The simulation results of the developed model are in good agreement with the experimental data obtained under the same conditions. With the simulation results, the distribution of temperature, flow velocity and the gas concentrations through the cell components and gas channels is presented and discussed. Potential and current density distributions in the cell and overall fuel utilization are also presented. It is also found that the temperature gradients exist along the length of the cell, and the maximum value of the temperature for the cross-flow is at the outlet region of the cell. The distribution of the current density is uneven, and the maximum current density is located at the interfaces between the channels, ribs and the electrodes, the maximum current density result in a large over-potential and heat source in the electrodes, which is harmful to the overall performance and working lifespan of the fuel cells. A new type of flow structure should be developed to make the current flow be more evenly distributed and promote most of the TPB areas to take part in the electrochemical reactions.Keywords: simulation; cross-flow; electrochemical reaction; 3D CFD model; transfer phenomena