ASME International

Fuel Cell Power Systems Performance
 N PTC 50

Annotation

This Code applies to all fuel cell power systems regardless of the electrical power output, thermal output, fuel cell type, fuel type, or system application.

Fuel cell power systems contain an assembly of electrochemical cells, which oxidize a fuel to generate direct current electricity. Balance-of-plant subsystems may include controls, thermal management, a fuel processor and a power conditioner. Some fuel cell power systems may contain additional power generating equipment such as steam generators, gas turbine generators, or micro-turbine generators. The net power output and all the fuel input to the system shall be taken into account in the performance test calculations.

This Code applies to the performance of overall fuel cell power systems. The Code addresses combined heat and power systems, that is, the generation of electricity and usable heat at specif c thermal conditions. It does not address the performance of specif c subsystems nor does it apply to energy storage systems, such as regenerative fuel cells or batteries. It also does not address emissions, reliability, safety issues, or endurance.

This Code contains methods and procedures for conducting and reporting fuel cell system testing, 2 including instrumentation to be used, testing techniques, and methods for calculating and reporting results.

The Code def nes the test boundary for fuel and oxidant input, secondary energy input and net electrical and thermal energy output. At these boundaries, this Code provides procedures for measuring temperature, pressure, input fuel f ow and composition, electrical power, and thermal output.

The Code provides procedures for determination of electrical eff ciency or heat rate and overall thermal effectiveness at rated or any other steady-state condition. The Code also provides the method to correct results from the test to reference conditions.