Diesel fuel cells

Types of diesel fuel cells

Although diesel fuel cells refer to the same technology, there are quite a few different types of cells used in fuel cell diesel generators. These are categorized based on their electrolyte. Here are the most popular types:

• Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cells (PAFC): PAFCs are found in stationary power plants and are known for their durability. They operate at high temperatures (around 150 to 200 degrees Celsius), leading to efficient electricity generation even from low-quality hydrogen fuels. While PAFCs offer good efficiency and reliability, their commercial use has declined due to the emergence of better-performing alternatives.
• Molten Carbonate Fuel Cells (MCFCs): MCFCs utilize a molten carbonate salt mixture as their electrolyte, operating at even higher temperatures (around 600 degrees Celsius). This high-temperature operation allows for internal reforming of hydrocarbons, including natural gas, diesel, and coal gas, to produce hydrogen - the primary fuel for fuel cells. MCFCs offer high efficiency and the capacity to handle various fuel types. However, their dependence on high operating temperatures makes them susceptible to quick thermal cycling, which can damage the cell.
• Uranium Fuel Cells: In these types of fuel cells, uranium dioxide serves as the electrolyte. These cells have great potential but have not been commercialized yet.
• Alkaline Fuel Cells (AFC): AFCs utilize an alkaline polymer electrolyte and are known for their high efficiency, especially in space applications. They operate at relatively low temperatures (around 20 to 60 degrees Celsius) and require pure hydrogen and oxygen for their reactions, which can limit their use in some terrestrial applications. Alkaline fuel cells showcased remarkable efficiency when pure hydrogen and oxygen were made available. Thanks to their high productivity, they were quickly chosen to provide power for space missions and satellite technology. However, the same factors that made them work well also made others not so convenient.
• Direct Methanol Fuel Cells (DMFCs): DMFCs are a type of alkaline fuel cell that uses methanol and hydrogen as fuel. Unlike other fuel cell types that require hydrogen extraction from fuels through reforming, DMFCs can directly utilize liquid methanol as fuel, simplifying the fuel processing infrastructure. This unique feature could potentially lead to portable power sources for cell phones and laptops.

Specification and Maintenance

Diesel fuel cell specification vary depending on their design and intended use. Some common specifications include the cells' size, power output, efficiency, operating temperature, and lifetime.

Typically, the size of a fuel cell can be as small as a cell in an electronic device or as big as a room. Power output is usually measured in watts. Different types of fuel cells have different power outputs. The efficiency of diesel fuel cells can sometimes be higher than those of ordinary electrochemical cells. While the latter can only convert 40 to 60 % of the fuel’s energy into electricity, some diesel fuel cells can convert up to 85 % of the fuel’s energy into electricity. The operating temperature of the fuel cell indicates whether the cell is functioning properly. Most fuel cells work perfectly in ambient temperatures between 200 to 800 degrees Celsius. The expected lifespan or durability of most fuel cells is between 5,000 to 40,000 hours. The fuel cell typically lasts longer if it is regularly maintained and used in optimal conditions.

For wholesale buyers to get the best performance and lifespan out of the diesel fuel cell, they should ensure proper maintenance. This will also help prevent accidents and ensure the safety of users and anyone else who comes in contact with the device. Manufacturers usually recommend storing the cell in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Users should keep the cell clean and periodically inspect it to see if there are any leaks or damage. They should make sure that the fuel is compatible with the cell. Using the wrong type can damage it, shorten its lifespan, or reduce its efficiency. Operators need to ensure that the fuel cell is properly ventilated because it is sensitive to temperature fluctuations. They should regularly consult the manufacturer’s instructions for specific maintenance recommendations. If any part of the fuel cell is damaged or not functioning properly, it should be promptly repaired or replaced to avoid further damage.

Applications of Diesel Fuel Cells

Like other fuel cells, diesel fuel cell generators can be applied across various industries for different usages. The following explains some of those possibilities.

• Off-Grid Power Generation

  Diesel fuel cell generators can function as standalone power sources for off-grid settings. An example of such an application scenario is a remote region lacking infrastructure for conventional power distribution. Instead, they make use of diesel fuel cells to generate electricity from the diesel supplied via fuel logistics. Other possible applications in a similar context include telecommunications, mining sites, and remote scientific research stations.

• Backup Power Systems

  Diesel fuel cells are capable of performing the role of a backup power source. Operating again with diesel fuel cell generators offers an alternative to maintaining uninterrupted power supply during unexpected outages. Possible application scenarios for this function include IT data centers, healthcare facilities, and industrial automation systems.

• Transportation

  Diesel fuel cells can serve as auxiliary power units (APUs) in the transport industry. They in some way assist traditional combustion engines. This reduces fuel consumption, increases energy efficiency, and provides a suitable environment for trailer trucks or RVs. Diesel fuel cells can procure electrical power for vehicle accessory equipment instead of relying on the main engine. Possible application scenarios include long-haul trucks, luxury RVs, and refrigerated containers.

• Unmanned Vehicles and Remote Control

  UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) and other model aircrafts usually rely on the fuelling of their cells to generate the needed power for propulsion and control systems. Also, unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) employed in areas like military reconnaissance or exploratory missions can utilize diesel fuel cells as their power source. Finally, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) commonly found in underwater exploration or industrial inspection are also candidates for the application of diesel fuel cells)Strong>

• Heavy-Duty Transport

  Diesel fuel cell technology does well to address the pursuit of higher energy density and longer-range driving capabilities in the field of heavy-duty transport. They offer an option for substituting diesel fuel in vehicles like hydrogen-powered trucks and heavy-duty vans.

• Maritime Applications

  Diesel fuel cells find application in vessels of varying types that traverse waters, from sea to inland rivers. Rather than employing traditional combustion engines, these cells serve as the primary source of power for propulsion and other systems.

• Rail Transportation

  Diesel fuel cells can substitute traditional diesel engines in train systems, especially in non-electrified areas. They provide clean and efficient power for train traction and onboard systems, enabling the reduction of carbon emissions and improving environmental sustainability.

How to choose diesel fuel cells

• Application requirements:

  Evaluate the specific application requirements. Consider factors such as the desired power output, operating time, load characteristics, and installation constraints. This will help determine if a fuel cell's power capacity and functional design match the application.

• Performance:

  Compare the power generation efficiency of different diesel fuel cell models. Higher efficiency means more effective conversion of fuel energy into electricity. Also, assess the fuel utilization rate, which indicates how effectively the cell uses diesel fuel.

• Operating consistency:

  Consider the operating stability and consistency of the fuel cell. Choose a model with a proven track record of reliable performance to minimize the risk of unexpected failures or interruptions during operation.

• Maintenance and service:

  Consider the maintenance requirements and service support for the selected diesel fuel cell. Research the availability of spare parts, the simplicity of maintenance procedures, and the competence of service providers. Choosing a system that is easy to maintain and supported by knowledgeable service teams can reduce downtime and operation.

• Environmental impact:

  Evaluate the environmental impact of the selected diesel fuel cell. Consider the emission levels of pollutants such as carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter. Opt for models with lower emissions to minimize the environmental footprint with proper emission treatment solutions.

Q&A

Q1: What will happen to diesel fuel cells in the future?

A1: According to experts, the global diesel fuel cell market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 21.03% during the forecast period from 2022 to 2028.

Q2: What are the weaknesses of diesel fuel cells?

A2: The main drawbacks of diesel fuel cells are high costs, limited durability, and the required frequent replacement of cell components.

Q3: Do we have large-scale applications for diesel fuel cells?

A3: Currently, the main large-scale applications of diesel fuel cell technology are in the military and some remote areas that are not connected to the traditional electric grid.

Q4: What are the advantages of diesel fuel cells?

A4: The benefits of diesel fuel cells include high efficiency, low emission, high energy density, operating at a wide range of temperatures, and providing energy security.