Simulation of a Natural Gas Solid Oxide Fuel Cell System Based on Rated Current Density Input

Wenxian Hu, Xudong Sun () and Yating Qin
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Wenxian Hu: School of Management, China University of Mining and Technology-Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
Xudong Sun: School of Management, China University of Mining and Technology-Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
Yating Qin: School of Management, China University of Mining and Technology-Beijing, Beijing 100083, China

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 16, 1-20

Abstract: Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs) offer high-efficiency electrochemical conversion of fuels like natural gas, yet detailed modeling is crucial for optimization. This paper presents a simulation study of a natural gas-fueled SOFC system, developed using Aspen Plus with Fortran integration. Distinct from prevalent paradigms assuming rated power output, this work adopts rated current density as the primary input, enabling a more direct investigation of the cell’s electrochemical behavior. We conducted a comprehensive sensitivity analysis of key parameters, including fuel utilization, water-carbon ratio, and current density, and further investigated the impact of different interconnection configurations on overall module performance. Results demonstrate that a single unit operating at a current density of 180 mA/cm 2 , a fuel utilization of 0.75, and a water-carbon ratio of 1.5 can achieve a maximum net stack-level electrical efficiency of 54%. Furthermore, optimizing the interconnection of a 400 kW module by combining series and parallel units boosts the overall net system-level electrical efficiency to 59%, a 5-percentage-point increase over traditional parallel setups. This is achieved by utilizing a bottoming cycle for exhaust heat recovery. This research validates the rated current density approach for SOFC modeling, offering novel insights into performance optimization and modular design for integrated energy systems.

Keywords: solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC); rated current density; system modeling; performance optimization; module configuration (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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