An industrial application of phosphoric acid fuel cells using by product hydrogen

Westinghouse Electric Corp. has been developing an air-cooled phosphoric acid fuel cell (PAFC) design for over a decade, and commercial-scale modules capable of 500 kW are currently being manufactured. Recent test results show that a conversion efficiency of 57 pc based on the lower heating value (LHV) projected lifetimes in excess of 35000 hours are achievable with hydrogen fueled systems. This paper describes an industrial power plant design employing this technology. A modular plant design approach is employed, permitting standard plants sized for 3 MW to 50 MW to be offered. Net plant electrical efficiency on hydrogen fuel exceeds 55 pc (LHV). Cogeneration options are also possible, with overall plant efficiency (electric plus heat) of over 90 pc. 4 figs., 2 tabs