This paper describes a technical approach for utilization of a fuel cell in a submarine application, which is assumed to require up to 810 kW for 30 days. The system consists of 20 solid polymer electrolyte fuel cell modules, a methanol-fueled hydrogen generator, and a hydrogen peroxide storage and processing system. Average and peak power requirements are 320 and 810 kW, respectively, at a nominal 250 V d.c. The 20 fuel cell modules each contain 86 series cells of active area 1180 cm2 each. The modules are arranged in five parallel banks each containing 4 modules in series. Operating conditions are 0.75 V/cell at 545 mA/cm2 current density at 80 Cel and 4 bars pressure. Fuel cell and fuel processing technology appear adequate to permit the development of a safe and reliable system for operation in a closed manned environment. The major problem limiting the use of any chemically fueled power system is the need for a safe, space efficient and reliable reactant system. There has been little experience with the storage of large quantities of oxidant on submarines. The reactant systems must be carefully designed and demonstrated to withstand the fueling, defueling, casualty procedures, shock and vibration and variation in pressure due to depth excursions in the corrosive seawater environment. Although this study assumed to use of hydrogen peroxide, the use of liquid oxygen is a viable option.
Fuel cells for underwater propulsion applications
Brennstoffzellen fuer den Unterwasserantrieb
1982
3 Seiten, 2 Bilder, 3 Tabellen, 11 Quellen
Conference paper
English
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