Development of a stack simulation model for control study on direct reforming molten carbonate fuel cell power plant

Abstract

A nonlinear mathematical model of an internal reforming molten carbonate fuel cell stack is developed for control system applications to fuel cell power plants. The model is based on principles of energy and mass component balances and thermochemical properties. Physical data for this model is obtained from a 2 MW system design that is a precursor to a demonstration fuel cell power plant running on natural gas at the City of Santa Clara, CA. The model can be used to provide realistic evaluations of the responses to varying load demands on the fuel cell stack and to define transient limitations and control requirements. Simulation results are presented for a transient response to a power plant trip at full load.