Simulation of a solid oxide fuel cell with external steam methane reforming and bypass

Fuel  exibility is a signi cant advantage of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) and can be attributed to their high operating temperature. The eligibility of a combined heat and power (CHP) system has been investigated as a new power generation method, in this study. Natural gas fueled SOFC power systems employing methane steam reforming (MSR) yield electrical conversion eff ciencies exceeding 50% and may become a viable alternative for distributed generation in Iran. Since the heat to power ratio of a common SOFC system is 2:1, an ef cient heat recovery system has been considered to supply the heat required by the steam producer and recuperative heat exchangers. All the main components in the comprehensive system were modeled and then simulated. Results showed high total energy eff ciency along with minimum heat loss are feasible in the proposed cycle. Moreover, desirable methane and hydrogen conversion ratios have been attained when utilizing this system for commercial power generation purposes. Lastly, a cathode recycling effect on the MSR combustor operation has been indicated.