Accession Number:

ADA055900

Title:

Parametric Analyses of 1.5-kW Methanol Fuel Cell Power Plant Designs.

Descriptive Note:

Final technical rept. Sep 77-Mar 78,

Corporate Author:

UNITED TECHNOLOGIES CORP SOUTH WINDSOR CT POWER SYSTEMS DIV

Personal Author(s):

• Meyer,A. P.
• Bett,J. A. S.
• Sederquist,R. A.
• Vartanian,G.

Report Date:

1978-05-19

Pagination or Media Count:

123.0

Abstract:

In recent years, spurred by the changing availability of petroleum fuels, the Army has begun to investigate the use of alternative fuels such as methanol. Under its SLEEPSilent Lightweight Electric Energy Plants program, MERADCOM has sponsored a design investigation to determine the viability of a methanol-fueled 1.5-kW fuel cell power plant for field service. The design is based on a low-temperature reformer and a commercial phosphoric-acid-technology fuel cell stack. Comparison of predicted power plant characteristics with goal Purchase Description Requirements shows that the concept has sufficient potential to be pursued further. Experimental work shows commercial-methanol fuels containing higher alcohols may be suitable fuels for this power plant. Additional experimental work and system analysis are needed to finalize reformer and power plant operating conditions and characteristics.

Descriptors:

• *FUEL CELLS
• *ELECTRIC POWER PLANTS
• *CARBINOLS
• LOW TEMPERATURE
• PARAMETRIC ANALYSIS
• ARMY EQUIPMENT
• FIELD EQUIPMENT

Subject Categories:

• Electric Power Production and Distribution

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE