Integrated fuel cell system with tubular solid oxide fuel cells

An integrated fuel cell system based on tubular fuel cells is examined. The system relies on free convection to pass air and spent gas through the system by using a chimney. Thus, an expensive air supply mechanism is not required. It is shown that the use of free convection up to a power generating scale of around 2 kW is feasible. Factors determining the dimensions of the heat exchanging system are studied. A complete system capable of generating 2 kW of electricity, running on natural gas and ambient air, is anticipated to have a diameter of approximately 300 mm and a height of 1700 mm. Including the chimney a total height of 5 m was found.