SOFC System Operation with EBZ IRM

EBZ supplies highly integrated components for the air preheating and gas processing of the staxera Integrated Stack Module (ISM). With the IRM, the internal reforming capabilities of the ISM can be explored systematically under variation of pre-reforming rates. Thereby, optimal operation points with low cathode air flow rates can be found. Units for autothermal reforming or catalytic partial oxidation can be integrated in the IRM optionally.

Air supply

• Cathode air preheater up to 850 °C
• Optional: cathode air recuperator for significant reduction of operation costs

Steam reforming unit

• Reforming of up to 5 kWLHV natural gas or methane
• Electrical heated evaporator
• Mixing chamber
• Electrically heated catalytic bed
• Precious metal or nickel catalyst
• Compact design, low pressure losses
• High-temperature resistant materials up to 900 °C

Testing capabilities

• Performance test with systematic variation of cathode air flow rate, pre-reforming rate and inlet temperatures
• Investigation of full and part load behaviour
• Variation of fuel and oxygen utilization
• Durability tests of several 1000 operation hours
• Thermal and redox cycling experiments including transient operation of connected components