Work

Numerical Analyses of the Influences of Connector Structures on the Performance of Flat-Tube SOFC

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigates how three flat-tube connector structures—conventional, ribbed flat-tube, and flange-connected—affect solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) performance. The analysis employs a multi-physics modeling approach to examine the coupled effects of flow fields, gas species transfer, electrochemical reaction, and solid–liquid heat transfer. Results indicate that, under specific conditions, adding internal connector structures can enhance gas transport within the cell, leading to improvements in current density and output power. The flange-connected structure SOFC demonstrated superior output performance, particularly at a flange length of 30 mm, at which it achieved a 4.13% increase in power density compared to the conventional flat-tube SOFC and promoted a more uniform temperature distribution, effectively alleviating uneven temperature distribution inside the cell.

Source: Applied Sciences

DOI: 10.3390/app15179251

Authors: Jian Yao, Xueyan Guo

Institution: University of Shanghai for Science and Technology

Language: English

Topic: Advancements in Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

Subfield: Materials Chemistry

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896