Advances in Tubular Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Technology

Abstract

This paper reviews the designs and performance of tubular solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). A large number of tubular cells of the porous support tube type have been electrically tested, some to times over 50,000 hours; these cells have shown excellent performance and performance stability. Since 1984, successfully larger electrical generators utilizing these cells have been built and operated; a 20 kW integrated SOFC system operated for 7064 hours during 1993–94. Results of development efforts to reduce cost and increase power output of tubular cells by eliminating porous support tube and increasing active length are described, and plans to utilize such air electrode supported cells in future SOFC systems are discussed.