ERDC/CERL TR-05-36, MILITARY REQUIREMENTS FOR JP-8 REFORMERS AND SOLID OXIDE FUEL CELL POWER SYSTEMS (DEC 2005)

ERDC/CERL TR-05-36, MILITARY REQUIREMENTS FOR JP-8 REFORMERS AND SOLID OXIDE FUEL CELL POWER SYSTEMS (DEC 2005)., This work represents an early step in the military Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) development process. This study identifies: (1) the military’s current and future electric power needs and capabilities, (2) the requirements for building a military SOFC power system with design recommendations, and (3) an initial approach to a Modularization Plan for developing military SOFC technology. The goals of this Modularization Plan will be to minimize procurement, training, and maintenance costs. Existing generators will be replaced with future electric power systems requiring reduced weight and footprint. Fuel efficiency goals will reduce fuel tanker fleet size and further decrease the logistical footprint. Military Standards, Specifications, and Handbooks pertaining specifically to SOFCs are not available, nor planned. This report identifies documents pertinent to the development of solid oxide fuel cell systems (<60 kW) based on information gathered through assessments of current applications and procurement requirements for military electric power. The report offers design recommendations to minimize the procurement cost of the SOFC system. The report discusses current capabilities, provides high-level considerations for a modularization plan, and identifies potential benefits of adopting a modular approach to SOFC systems, which is anticipated to reduce training, streamline the maintenance requirements, and reduce logistics.