Types of Fuel Cell
Direct Methanol Fuel Cell (DMFC)
How it works
The DMFC fuel cell generator operates in conjunction with batteries in parallel, which carry the power load.
The fully automated DMFC then effectively acts as a ‘battery charger’ ensuring that the batteries are kept at optimum voltage at all times.
Intelligent system
The intelligent DMFC system continuously monitors the battery voltage and as soon as the load has reduced the voltage to a pre-set figure the system will automatically start, charging the batteries, before automatically shutting down again.
The intelligent charging pattern maintains the batteries in peak condition, extending their operational lifetime. Fuel life is also extended within the fuel cell system as the unit is only running during charging. A traditional style generator would run continuously.
Efficient and very quiet
As power is produced directly from the fuel cell, the system is considerably more efficient than an internal combustion generator, by up to 400% in many cases, with associated fuel and cost savings. A fuel cell also has so few moving parts, they have higher levels of reliability and reduced noise levels (which compare to those of a laptop) so the units maintain the peace of the environment in which they are used.
Environmentally friendly
The DMFC fuel cell is a clean solution. The only emissions it produces are a small amount of pure water and a tiny amount of carbon dioxide, comparable to a small child’s breath – so it won’t impact the surrounding habitat.
Safe
All methanol fuel supplied for our DMFC systems are provided in leak proof, impact-tested, non-refillable, recyclable cartridges approved to TUV standards. All containers are also approved to Air Transport Association (IATA) transport standards.
PEM Fuel Cells
Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) use a polymer membrane for its electrolyte and a precious metal, typically platinum, for its catalyst. What distinguishes these fuel cells from others is PEMFC’s ability to operate at cooler temperatures relative to other types of fuel cells, between 80 to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Pure hydrogen gas is the typical fuel for PEMFCs Due to their use of precious metals and lower operating temperatures. PEMFCs operate between 40% to 60% efficiency and are capable of handling large and sudden shifts in power output. PEMFCs are well-suited for cars and other specialty vehicles such as forklifts that need to quickly start up or accelerate. Additionally, PEMFC’s can be scaled in stationary applications for use in telecommunications, data centres, and residential markets.
Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
SOFCs are the highest temperature fuel cells, operating at about 1800 degrees Fahrenheit. SOFCs use a dense layer of ceramic as an electrolyte, which at high temperatures allows for the conductivity of oxygen ions. Similar to the MCFCs, SOFCs also use a non-platinum catalyst utilizing internal reformation, and are commonly fuelled by natural gas. Through this process, SOFCs can achieve electrical efficiencies of 50% to 60%, and 70%-80% in CHP applications. SOFCs are being used in a range of applications, from small residential auxiliary power units supplying heat and power to homes, to large-scale stationary power generators for larger buildings and businesses.