The Rolls-Royce fuel cell system is lower cost; more
efficient; more easily distributed; more durable and
maintainable than its nearest rival.
Rolls-Royce has experience in the system integration
of several different types of fuel cells and believes
the Solid-Oxide Fuel Cell is the best for stationary
power generation applications while retaining the capability
of being developed subsequently for various transportation,
military and marine applications.
Features
Simplicity
The fuel cell is produced by screen printing on low
cost ceramic type materials using proven production
processes and minimal exotic materials.
Low cost
The system uses commercial-grade materials, has few
components and is low in weight.
Efficiency
Nearly double the simple-cycle efficiency of existing
power generation technologies.
Profile
Size and weight suitable for distributed generation
with potential for power densities equivalent to gas
turbine systems.
Environment
Negligible air emissions, minimal noise profile and
can be entirely recycled at the end of its useful life.
Maintainability
Unique, modular design enables field change-out without
interruption of supply and enhanced support through
state-of-the-art diagnostic and prognostic systems.
Safety
System contains less than ten seconds of fuel supply
at any time.
Durability
Low parts count and the elimination of low durability
components gives a realistic design target of 40,000
hours operation on a mature product and a 20-year 160,000
hour overall plantlife potential.
Fuel flexibility
System can be configured to use existing hydrocarbon-based
fuels, i.e. natural gas and liquid fuels, and alternative
fuels such as coal gas and bio-mass.
Security
Suitable for connection to local distribution networks
and in small, secure urban areas. |
