SOFC test rig for demonstration and simulation SOFC/GT hybrid system with the OpenModelica

Abstract

In 2023, electricity consumption in Thailand increased by 5%, reflecting economic recovery. The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) still relies on fossil fuels for 83.52% of electricity production and only 16.26% from renewable energy. The combustion of fossil fuels causes pollution and greenhouse reactions, leading to international agreements to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, such as the Paris Agreement and CBAM.

Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) is an interesting technology because it efficiently converts chemical energy into electricity and is environmentally friendly. It also has advantages over batteries that have limitations in capacity and lifespan. The Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at King Mongkut's University of Technology North Bangkok has developed a SOFC stack testing device, but it still has safety and operational limitations. This project aims to improve the fuel pipe system to meet standards, enhance safety with a digital control system via LabVIEW program, and simulate a Hybrid SOFC-GT system using OpenModelica.

The project results include a testing equipment set that has passed leakage tests after the installation of the new system components according to engineering standards. The test results show that the equipment was completely installed without damage or leakage from the installation. Another test result is the functionality test of the LabVIEW program, which found that the system can efficiently read and record values from various measuring instruments such as temperature and pressure. The LabVIEW program can respond quickly and record data as Excel files for further analysis in the future.

However, this project is not yet complete because the SOFC outlet equipment has not been implemented, making it impossible to use hydrogen for testing. Currently, it only covers the input equipment and preliminary readiness testing, which will serve as a foundation for further full-scale system development.