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Investigating Voltage Oscillations During Jet-Fueled SOFC Operation: An Experimental Study of Water Vaporization
by Owen Massey, Masters Student, Tennessee Tech University, ommassey42@tntech.edu
Solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) operation on jet fuel presents several challenges associated with fuel processing and system stability. During laboratory testing, the introduction of steam has resulted in periodic SOFC voltage oscillations characterized by small fluctuations interrupted by larger voltage spikes and drops. These oscillations have not been observed during operation on hydrogen alone, suggesting that the instability may be associated with steam delivery or vaporization. Incomplete water vaporization or condensation within the delivery system is being investigated as a potential contributing mechanism.
This work presents an experimental testing matrix designed to identify operating conditions that promote stable water vaporization and reduce voltage oscillations during SOFC operation. The investigation examines the effects of water flow rate, operating pressure, water tank pressure, water heater temperature, and heat tape temperature on system performance. Preliminary testing has identified higher water flow rates and operation at 4 bar as conditions associated with improved stability. However, testing remains ongoing, and additional experiments are required to evaluate these trends and determine the underlying mechanisms responsible for the observed voltage behavior.
The results of this investigation will inform the development of more stable steam delivery and operating strategies for jet-fueled SOFC systems. Ultimately, this work aims to improve operational stability and provide a foundation for further investigation of fuel processing and water management in SOFC applications.
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