A single-row combined tubular solid oxide fuel cell stack structure

Abstract

This application provides a single-row combined tubular solid oxide fuel cell stack structure, comprising multiple single-tube cells arranged along the length of each module and forming a single unit in the width direction. The multiple single-tube cells are combined to form a stack. Each single-tube module includes a support portion fixed to each single-tube cell, a cathode gas distribution portion sealed to the support portion and correspondingly connected to the cathode side of each single-tube cell for introducing cathode gas into the cell and discharging cathode exhaust gas after reaction, and an anode gas distribution portion sealed to the support portion and correspondingly connected to the anode side of each single-tube cell for introducing anode gas into the cell and discharging anode exhaust gas after reaction. The structure provided by this invention solves the problems of complex gas flow paths and difficulty in uniform gas distribution among individual cells in current multi-tube extended fuel cell stacks.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of fuel cell technology, and in particular to a single-row combined tubular solid oxide fuel cell stack structure. Background Technology

[0002] SOFC (solid oxide fuel cell) can directly generate electricity from fossil fuels, converting chemical energy into electrical energy. It is not limited by the Carnot cycle and is a highly efficient and clean power generation device. It has a wide range of fuel applicability and applications, and is particularly suitable for distributed power generation and combined heat and power systems. Therefore, it is considered to be the most promising green power generation device at present. For China, which needs to import a large amount of oil but has relatively abundant natural gas resources, the efficient and clean conversion and utilization of light alkanes such as methane and ethane has important strategic significance for national energy security.

[0003] SOFCs are mainly divided into two types: planar and tubular, with various evolutionary designs. Tubular SOFCs have attracted widespread attention due to their excellent high-temperature self-sealing characteristics and low thermal stress. Currently, tubular SOFCs primarily use an anode layer, porous insulating ceramics, or porous cermets as the support tube. From the inside out, the sequence is anode-electrolyte-cathode, with fuel gas flowing inside the tube and air distributed on the outer surface of the single-tube cell. In commercial applications, because the voltage of a single-tube SOFC cell is relatively low, multiple single-tube cells are usually assembled into a stack through series and parallel connections to meet various application requirements, from small portable power supplies to large power generation equipment.

[0004] In various stack assembly schemes for tubular batteries, including their structural features and current collection methods, the large volume of air flowing over the outer surface of the tubular battery is not only the primary source of reactants (oxygen) on the cathode surface but also the main mode of heat transfer within the stack. The fuel gas inside the tube is the primary means of generating electricity. Uneven gas flow between the anode and cathode significantly impacts the electrochemical performance, temperature gradient, material component stress, stack output power, and lifespan of each individual cell. Therefore, the uniformity of gas distribution within the individual cells of the stack is extremely crucial.

[0005] To achieve high efficiency, long lifespan, and optimal output performance in tubular SOFC stacks, it is essential to ensure uniform gas distribution among the individual cells, resulting in uniform temperature across all cells and within the stack itself. Current gas distribution schemes aimed at improving uniformity suffer from several drawbacks. High-power stacks are typically large with numerous individual cells, leading to complex gas distributors and significant flow space within the gas chamber. This results in disordered gas diffusion across multiple dimensions, causing variations in the intake volume and flow resistance for each cell. Consequently, the fundamental problem of uniform gas distribution remains unresolved. Summary of the Invention

[0006] To address the aforementioned problems, this invention provides a single-row combined tubular solid oxide fuel cell stack structure to solve the issues of complex gas flow paths and difficulty in uniformly distributing gas within each single tube cell in current multi-tube extended stacks.

[0007] This invention provides a single-row combined tubular solid oxide fuel cell stack structure, and the technical solution adopted is as follows:

[0008] A single-row combined tubular solid oxide fuel cell stack structure, comprising:

[0009] Multiple single-row modules, including multiple single-tube batteries, wherein the multiple single-tube batteries are arranged along the length direction of the single-row module and are one in the width direction;

[0010] The plurality of the single-row modules are combined to form a fuel cell stack; each single-row module includes:

[0011] The support section holds each of the single-tube batteries.

[0012] The cathode gas distribution section is sealed and connected to the support section and is connected to the cathode side of each single tube cell. It is used to introduce cathode gas into the single tube cell and discharge the cathode tail gas after the reaction.

[0013] An anode gas distribution section is sealed and connected to the support section and is connected to the anode side of each single-tube cell. It is used to introduce anode gas into the single-tube cell and discharge the anode tail gas after the reaction.

[0014] As one of the preferred options, the width of the single-row module matches the inner diameter of the single-tube battery in the width direction.

[0015] As one of the preferred options, the single-row module is provided with six single-tube batteries.

[0016] As one of the preferred embodiments, the single-row module further includes:

[0017] A fixing plate is disposed within the cathode gas distribution section. The fixing plate is provided with mounting holes, each of which allows each of the single-tube cells to pass through.

[0018] The inner wall of each of the mounting holes is coated with an insulating material.

[0019] As one of the preferred options, the fixing plate has a hollow structure, and multiple diversion areas are provided on the fixing plate around each of the mounting holes.

[0020] As one preferred embodiment, the cathode gas distribution section includes:

[0021] The cathode gas chamber has an opening at the bottom, which is sealed by the support portion, and multiple single-tube cells extend from the support portion toward the cathode gas chamber.

[0022] A cathode gas inlet pipe is connected to the cathode gas cavity at the location corresponding to the closed end of the single-tube battery.

[0023] A cathode gas exhaust pipe is connected to a position in the cathode gas cavity away from the closed end.

[0024] As one preferred embodiment, the anode gas distribution section includes:

[0025] Anode gas inlet chamber, with an opening on the chamber;

[0026] An anode gas inlet pipe is connected to the anode gas inlet chamber;

[0027] The anode gas exhaust chamber is located between the support and the anode gas inlet chamber and is sealed by both.

[0028] An anode gas exhaust pipe is connected to the anode gas exhaust chamber;

[0029] A gas duct, one end of which is inserted into the hole and passes through the anode gas exhaust chamber, extends into the interior of the single-tube battery mounted on the support;

[0030] The extended termination end of the gas duct is close to the closed end of the single-tube battery.

[0031] As one of the preferred options, fine-tuning needle valves are respectively installed on the cathode gas inlet pipe and the anode gas inlet pipe.

[0032] As one of the preferred embodiments, the cathode gas cavity includes a main body of the collection chamber and a top cover of the collection chamber that are interconnected.

[0033] As one preferred embodiment, the support includes fixing holes, each of the single-tube batteries is fixed in each fixing hole, and is connected to the anode gas exhaust chamber.

[0034] Compared with the prior art, this application has the following advantages:

[0035] This invention provides a single-row combined tubular solid oxide fuel cell stack structure, comprising multiple single-tube cells arranged along the length of each single-tube cell and forming a single stack in the width direction. Each single-tube cell is assembled to form a stack. Each single-tube cell includes a support portion fixed to each single-tube cell, a cathode gas distribution portion sealed to the support portion and correspondingly connected to the cathode side of each single-tube cell for introducing cathode gas into the single-tube cell and discharging cathode exhaust gas after reaction; and an anode gas distribution portion sealed to the support portion and correspondingly connected to the anode side of each single-tube cell for introducing anode gas into the single-tube cell and discharging anode exhaust gas after reaction.

[0036] The structure provided in this invention allows gas to flow into each single-row module. Since the individual cells are arranged in only one row, the gas distribution path within the row is relatively simple. Each individual cell receives gas along a relatively identical path, experiencing less impact from resistance and pressure loss. The flow rate difference between individual cells is small, resulting in each individual cell within the same row receiving essentially the same amount of gas. Therefore, the single-row modular inlet-pipe SOFC stack effectively improves the problem of gas distribution uniformity. Attached Figure Description

[0037] To more clearly illustrate the technical solution of this application, the drawings used in the description of this application will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0038] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of a single-row combined tubular solid oxide fuel cell stack structure according to an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 2 This is a front view of the single-row combined tubular solid oxide fuel cell stack structure according to an embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the combination of the anode gas inlet chamber and the anode gas inlet pipe according to an embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the combination of the anode gas exhaust chamber and the anode gas exhaust pipe according to an embodiment of this application;

[0042] Figure 5 This is a detailed internal view of the support portion according to an embodiment of this application;

[0043] Figure 6This is a schematic diagram of the combination of the main body of the collection chamber and the cathode gas exhaust pipe according to an embodiment of this application;

[0044] Figure 7 This is an internal structural diagram of the fixing plate according to an embodiment of this application;

[0045] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the combination of the chamber top cover and the cathode gas inlet pipe according to an embodiment of this application.

[0046] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0047] 1a. Top cover of the collection chamber; 1b. Main body of the collection chamber; 2. Fixing plate; 3. Single-tube battery; 4. Air duct; 5. Support part; 6a. Anode gas exhaust chamber; 6b. Anode gas inlet chamber; 7. Cathode gas inlet pipe; 8. Cathode gas exhaust pipe; 9. Anode gas exhaust pipe; 10. Anode gas inlet pipe. Detailed Implementation

[0048] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0049] It should be noted that various gas distribution schemes currently exist, all of which modify the fuel and air intake positions, adding gas distribution equipment and / or inlet / outlet manifolds. While these improve gas distribution uniformity to some extent, they increase system complexity and maintenance costs. Traditional large tubular fuel cell stacks, due to their multi-row structure and complex gas flow paths, face significantly greater challenges in achieving uniform gas distribution within each individual cell compared to fuel cell modules. Although some related technologies have modularized large fuel cell stacks, this primarily considers ease of assembly and disassembly; the modularized stack still retains a multi-row structure.

[0050] In traditional large tubular fuel cell stack structures or modular multi-row fuel cell stack structures, such as dual-row module stacks, multiple-row module stacks, or matrix module stacks, the single-tube cells 3 are arranged horizontally and vertically along the length and width directions, and the gas needs to be distributed in multiple dimensions. After the gas enters the stack from the manifold, it diffuses and flows in three-dimensional space, undergoing a complex distribution process. It is necessary to consider not only the uniformity of gas flow in the length and height directions, but also the gas diffusion in the width direction. The single-tube cells 3 in different rows are in different flow paths, resulting in differences in the distribution of gas momentum and pressure.

[0051] Within the same multi-row module or large fuel cell stack, a shielding effect exists between the front and rear rows. The single-cell battery 3 closest to the manifold receives more gas first. At this point, the airflow experiences some energy loss, and its momentum and pressure gradually weaken, resulting in the rear row of single-cell batteries 3 receiving less airflow. Therefore, even with current gas distribution measures, uneven gas distribution still exists among the individual single-cell batteries 3 within the fuel cell stack module.

[0052] In view of this, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, Figure 1 and Figure 2 The images show a three-dimensional and a front view of a single-row combined tubular solid oxide fuel cell stack, along with its internal structure. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, a single-row combined tubular solid oxide fuel cell stack structure includes: multiple single-row modules, each comprising multiple single-tube cells 3, the multiple single-tube cells 3 being arranged along the length direction of the single-row module and forming a single unit in the width direction; wherein, the multiple single-row modules are combined to form a stack; each single-row module includes: a support portion 5, on which each single-tube cell 3 is fixed; a cathode gas distribution portion, sealed and connected to the support portion 5 and correspondingly connected to the cathode side of each single-tube cell 3, for introducing cathode gas into the single-tube cell 3 and discharging cathode tail gas after reaction; and an anode gas distribution portion, sealed and connected to the support portion 5 and correspondingly connected to the anode side of each single-tube cell 3, for introducing anode gas into the single-tube cell 3 and discharging anode tail gas after reaction.

[0053] Specifically, a single-cell battery 3 is a single unit of a single-row module, which in turn is a single unit of a tubular SOFC stack. Each single-cell battery 3 includes an anode, an electrolyte, and a cathode. The outer wall of the tube is the cathode, and cathode gas (hereinafter referred to as air) is supplied outside the tube. The inner wall of the tube is the anode, and anode gas (hereinafter referred to as fuel) is supplied inside the tube. The fuel and air undergo an electrochemical reaction on the tube. Specifically, the fuel may include hydrogen, carbon monoxide, methane, propane, butane, gasoline, diesel, etc.

[0054] Among them, multiple single-tube batteries 3 can be connected by connectors made of special materials, and the current can be collected to a certain end of the tube and the current can be led out through the lead wire; or the tubes can be combined in series and parallel through the lead wire to form a single row module.

[0055] The support 5 serves as a support base for fixing each single-cell battery 3 and also as a support carrier for the cathode gas distribution section and the anode gas distribution section. The cathode gas distribution section is responsible for distributing air to the outer wall surface of each single-cell battery 3 and discharging the cathode exhaust gas generated by the reaction. The anode gas distribution section is used to deliver fuel to the inner wall surface of each single-cell battery 3 and discharge the anode exhaust gas after the reaction.

[0056] In some embodiments, the inner wall surface of the single-tube battery 3 can serve as the cathode side, and the outer wall surface of the single-tube battery 3 can serve as the anode side. Correspondingly, a cathode gas distribution section and an anode gas distribution section are provided.

[0057] The improvement in this embodiment lies in fixing the fuel cell stack module as a single row of sub-modules. Multiple single-tube batteries 3 can be arranged in a row of N, where N is at least greater than 2, along the length of the module. In actual use, multiple 1*N single-row modules can be connected in series and parallel to form the entire fuel cell stack structure, achieving effective power amplification.

[0058] Therefore, for a single-row module, the three individual cells are arranged only in the length direction, while there is only one column in the width direction. The length of a single-row module can be much greater than its width, and its width is almost negligible relative to its length and height. Gas diffusion along the width direction is almost unnecessary, and the diffusion in the width is negligible. The gas is restricted to flow along the length direction. Therefore, the flow of cathode gas and anode gas can be approximately equivalent to two-dimensional diffusion. The gas flows along a two-dimensional path (single direction), ensuring that the gas does not produce non-uniformity due to multi-directional diffusion, greatly enhancing airflow control and reducing turbulence loss.

[0059] Therefore, compared to traditional modular layouts or large stack structures such as N*N, which have large gas flow spaces, the gas entering the gas chamber is inevitably distributed in multiple dimensions, resulting in complex gas flow paths within the stack. This leads to differences in the gas intake and flow resistance of each battery cell, easily causing uneven distribution problems. In the embodiments of this application, after the gas flows into each single-row module, since the single-cell batteries 3 are only arranged in one row, the gas distribution path in the single row is relatively simple. The path for each single-cell battery 3 to obtain gas is relatively the same, and it is less affected by resistance and pressure loss. The flow rate difference between each single-cell battery 3 is small, so that each single-cell battery 3 within the same row module receives approximately the same amount of gas. Therefore, the single-row modular inlet pipe SOFC stack can effectively improve the problem of gas distribution uniformity.

[0060] Furthermore, the single-row module design simplifies the gas path management of the structure, eliminating the need for complex gas distribution structures to regulate the uniform distribution of gas, reducing structural complexity and maintenance difficulty, and fundamentally improving the uniformity of gas distribution and structural stability internally.

[0061] Furthermore, by modularizing the tubular SOFC stack, the replacement of individual cell tubes 3 becomes significantly easier. In traditional large-scale integrated stacks, considering the compactness and uniform gas distribution, the small distance between individual cell tubes 3 makes replacing a single cell tube 3 in the middle extremely difficult. The single-row modular stack structure designed in this invention allows each row of modules to have independent gas intake and exhaust. Replacement can be done by simply removing a single module or by directly replacing the entire module with a spare, which is extremely convenient. This design not only simplifies the gas path structure but also improves the stack's output power and durability, making it highly suitable for large-scale modular integration and efficient operation of fuel cell structures.

[0062] In summary, the modular structure of the tubular SOFC stack and its replication and expansion stack feature a single-row air intake design, resulting in better gas distribution uniformity. Furthermore, the replacement of the single-tube cells in the stack is efficient and convenient, demonstrating originality in the SOFC field. Therefore, it provides a more reliable, efficient, and low-cost solution for the future design of modular fuel cell structures.

[0063] As can be seen, as a further explanation of this embodiment, in the design of a single-row module 1*N, since the battery cells in the module are arranged in a straight line, the gas flow direction is mainly along the arrangement direction and will not cross other directions for complex distribution.

[0064] Based on a similar principle, the height of the gas chamber can be further minimized while increasing the aspect ratio, causing the gas to tend towards one-dimensional diffusion. However, the height is usually relatively fixed inside the module, and while its relationship with overall distribution uniformity is weak, it does affect gas flow rate. Therefore, there is no need to further increase the length-to-height ratio to avoid reducing module usability and layout flexibility. Thus, achieving two-dimensional flow optimization through a 1*N single-row design can simplify gas distribution to the greatest extent possible.

[0065] Based on a similar principle, a method that minimizes the height of the gas chamber without increasing the aspect ratio would require a larger planar footprint to allow the gas to diffuse in a planar, two-dimensional manner. Therefore, an optimized design was chosen where the length is much greater than the width, and the height is determined by the module's internal dimensions. This allows the gas to flow uniformly on the plane while maintaining structural compactness and reducing the additional footprint.

[0066] Preferably, the width of the single-row module matches the inner diameter of the single-tube battery 3 in the width direction. In this embodiment, the inner diameter of the single-tube battery 3 is related to the width of the gas cavity, and the width of the gas cavity determines the overall width of the single-row module. The cathode and anode gas inlets of the single-tube battery 3 are connected to the cathode and anode gas cavities, respectively. By designing the widths of the cathode and anode gas cavities to be slightly larger than the inner diameter of the single-tube battery 3, the aspect ratio can be further increased, avoiding unnecessary space waste or airflow deviation, and improving the uniformity of gas distribution among the batteries. By matching the inner diameter of the battery to the module width, the module's footprint can be further optimized.

[0067] For example, the fuel cell stack module includes a main body 1b, a top cover 1a, a single-cell battery 3, a support 5, an anode gas exhaust chamber 6a, and an anode gas inlet chamber 6b. Therefore, based on the dimensions of the single-cell battery 3, the main body 1b, the top cover 1a, the fixing plate 2, the support 5, the anode gas exhaust chamber 6a, and the anode gas inlet chamber 6b can all be designed to be rectangular, with consistent length and width, forming a rectangular structure. The overall length is slightly greater than the sum of the lengths of the multiple single-cell batteries 3, and the overall width is slightly greater than the inner diameter of the single-cell battery 3.

[0068] In some embodiments, the single-tube battery 3 can be cylindrical, and the width of the air cavity can be slightly larger than the inner diameter of the single-tube battery 3.

[0069] In some embodiments, the single-tube battery 3 can be irregularly shaped, and the width of the air cavity can be slightly larger than the maximum inner diameter of the single-tube battery 3.

[0070] In some embodiments, the single-tube battery 3 can be rectangular, and the width of the air cavity can be slightly larger than the width of the single-tube battery 3.

[0071] In some embodiments, multiple single-tube batteries 3 are arranged in parallel at intervals on the support portion 5.

[0072] More preferably, the single-row module is provided with six single-tube batteries 3. In this embodiment, the fuel cell stack, composed of multiple small 1*6 single-row modules, introduces gas into the gas chamber through an air inlet pipe, and then distributes it evenly to the six parallel battery cells. In this embodiment, only six pipes need to be supplied with gas after the fuel side gas intake, so the gas uniformity is better than that of traditional fuel cell stacks with no manifold distribution for fuel gas intake.

[0073] Specifically, multiple such small single-row modules are combined in series or parallel to achieve power amplification, and each stack module adopts an independent air intake design (each sub-module is equipped with an independent fuel gas path and air gas path, and includes an air inlet, an exhaust port, and a gas flow control device), which not only ensures the uniformity of gas distribution and temperature gradient control within each module, but also improves the power output, reliability, and scalability of the structure.

[0074] In some embodiments, the number of single-row modules can be flexibly increased or decreased, or the length of a single single-row module can be adjusted (increasing or decreasing the number of single-tube batteries 3) according to actual application requirements, so as to achieve stack configurations with different power requirements.

[0075] In another embodiment, the single-row module further includes a fixing plate 2 disposed within the cathode gas distribution section. The fixing plate 2 has mounting holes, each allowing each single-tube battery 3 to pass through. The inner wall of each mounting hole is coated with an insulating material. In this embodiment, the single-tube battery 3 is disposed within the cathode gas distribution section, and the fixing plate 2 is also disposed within the cathode gas distribution section. After the single-tube battery 3 is fixed by the support part 5, it is further reinforced by the fixing plate 2 to prevent the single-tube battery 3 from becoming too long and tilting or colliding. High-temperature insulating ceramic adhesive is coated on the inner wall of the mounting holes of the fixing plate 2 to prevent electrical conduction through contact with the single-tube battery 3.

[0076] The shape and contour of the mounting hole are adapted to the shape and contour of the single-tube battery 3. For example, the mounting hole is a through hole, allowing the single-tube battery 3 to pass through it.

[0077] Furthermore, a fixing plate 2 is provided on the top of the battery. The fixing plate 2 can be used as an air distributor. The gas intake method can be changed by drilling holes on its surface or arbitrarily changing its shape, thereby further improving the uniformity of air distribution.

[0078] Specifically, the fixing plate 2 has a hollow structure. The hollow design allows gas to flow freely after entering the gas cavity. Holes or gaps are incorporated into the design of the plate, allowing the gas to be smoothly distributed to the outer wall of each battery cell through the holes or gaps in the fixing plate 2.

[0079] More specifically, the channels or gaps are multiple flow-diverting zones located around each of the mounting holes on the mounting plate 2. The flow-diverting zones arranged around each mounting hole on the mounting plate effectively and evenly distribute the gas flow rate around each battery cell.

[0080] In some embodiments, the diversion zone can take various forms, such as a small channel, hole, or annular fluid channel, or a mesh, strip, or porous structure, to ensure that gas can pass smoothly and be diverted to the perimeter of each battery cell. The shape and size of each diversion zone can be the same or different.

[0081] like Figure 6As shown, four flow distribution zones are arranged around each mounting hole, with two adjacent mounting holes sharing two flow distribution zones, optimizing space utilization. Gas enters the gas chamber through these flow distribution zones and is evenly distributed between the two adjacent single-tube cells 3. By setting the flow distribution zones, the gas can be pre-distributed before entering each single-tube cell 3, making the gas velocity and pressure more consistent at the inlet of each cell, and the gas distribution more uniform and stable.

[0082] In a further technical solution, the cathode gas distribution section includes:

[0083] The cathode gas chamber has an opening at the bottom, which is sealed by the support portion 5. Multiple single-tube batteries 3 extend from the support portion 5 into the cathode gas chamber. A cathode gas inlet pipe 7 is connected to the cathode gas chamber at the location corresponding to the closed end of the single-tube battery 3. A cathode gas outlet pipe 8 is connected to the cathode gas chamber at a location away from the closed end.

[0084] In this embodiment, the cathode gas chamber is located at the top and is sealed to the support portion 5 in the middle and lower part through a bottom opening, covering several single-tube batteries 3 installed on the support portion 5. This provides a closed space for each single-tube battery 3, allowing air introduced from the cathode gas inlet pipe 7 to be transferred to the outer wall surface of the single-tube battery 3. In this design, the cathode gas inlet pipe 7 directly connects to the closed end position of the single-tube battery 3 within the cathode gas chamber, ensuring that the air entering the chamber has sufficient time and space to diffuse downwards and react electrochemically with the fuel flowing within the single-tube battery 3. Correspondingly, the cathode gas exhaust pipe 8 is preferably located at the far end of the cathode gas chamber to discharge the fully reacted cathode exhaust gas from the chamber.

[0085] In a further technical solution, the anode gas distribution section includes: an anode gas inlet chamber 6b with an opening in the chamber; an anode gas inlet pipe 10 communicating with the anode gas inlet chamber 6b; an anode gas exhaust chamber 6a located between the support portion 5 and the anode gas inlet chamber 6b, and sealed by both; an anode gas exhaust pipe 9 communicating with the anode gas exhaust chamber 6a; and a gas guide pipe 4, one end of which is inserted into the opening and passes through the anode gas exhaust chamber 6a, extending into the interior of the single-tube battery 3 mounted on the support portion 5; wherein the extension termination end of the gas guide pipe 4 is close to the closed end of the single-tube battery 3.

[0086] In this embodiment, the anode gas inlet chamber 6b and the anode gas exhaust chamber 6a are arranged overlapping from bottom to top. The anode gas inlet chamber 6b receives fuel through the anode gas inlet pipe 10. An opening is provided in this chamber to communicate with the gas guide pipe 4, allowing fuel to be delivered into the gas guide pipe 4. The fuel continues to enter the interior of each single-cell battery 3 through the gas guide pipe 4 for use in the internal reaction of the battery. The anode gas exhaust chamber 6a is located between the support portion 5 and the anode gas inlet chamber 6b, and is sealed by both. It communicates with the support portion 5 but is isolated from the cathode gas inlet chamber. It receives the anode exhaust gas transmitted from the support portion 5 and discharges the anode exhaust gas through the anode gas exhaust pipe 9.

[0087] Preferably, the extended termination end of the gas guide pipe 4 is close to the closed end of the single-tube battery 3. This allows sufficient time and space for the fuel entering the single-tube battery 3 through the gas guide pipe 4 and the air transmitted to the closed end of the single-tube battery 3 by the top fixing plate 2 to undergo an electrochemical reaction.

[0088] In some embodiments, at least two of the cathode gas inlet pipe 7, cathode gas outlet pipe 8, anode gas inlet pipe 10, and anode gas outlet pipe 9 may be arranged on the same side or on opposite sides.

[0089] In this embodiment, the single-row module has air intake and exhaust on the same side.

[0090] In another embodiment, the cathode gas chamber includes a main chamber body 1b and a top cover 1a that are interconnected. In this embodiment, the main chamber body 1b is inserted into the support part 5, the top cover 1a seals the top of the main chamber body 1b, the cathode gas inlet pipe 7 is connected to the top cover 1a, and the cathode gas exhaust pipe 8 is connected to the main chamber body 1b, which facilitates the assembly and replacement of the single-row module.

[0091] Furthermore, the support portion 5 includes fixing holes, on which each of the single-tube batteries 3 is fixed and communicates with the anode gas exhaust chamber 6a. The support portion 5 fixes the battery units by providing fixing holes. Each fixing hole corresponds to the position of a battery unit. The open end of the single-tube battery 3 is located in the fixing hole and communicates with the fixing hole, so the anode exhaust gas after the reaction flows out of the support portion 5 through the open end and enters the anode gas exhaust chamber 6a.

[0092] The following is a preferred embodiment as a specific illustration of this structure:

[0093] Please refer to it again. Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, a single-row combined tubular solid oxide fuel cell stack structure is disclosed. The stack module consists of a main chamber 1b, a top cover 1a, a fixing plate 2, a single-cell battery 3, a gas guide pipe 4, a support 5, an anode gas exhaust chamber 6a, an anode gas inlet chamber 6b, a cathode gas inlet pipe 7, a cathode gas exhaust pipe 8, an anode gas exhaust pipe 9, and an anode gas inlet pipe 10. Except for the single-cell battery 3, all the above materials are high-temperature resistant alloys.

[0094] The cathode gas inlet pipe 7 and the anode gas inlet pipe 10 are equipped with fine-tuning needle valves at their outer ends to adjust the air intake. After the air flow rate is adjusted by the needle valves, it enters the cathode gas chamber through the cathode gas inlet pipe 7, flows evenly on the surface of each single-tube battery 3, and is discharged from the cathode gas exhaust pipe 8 at the bottom of the cathode gas chamber. After the fuel flow rate is adjusted by the needle valves, it enters the anode gas inlet chamber 6b through the anode gas inlet pipe 10, then enters the top of each single-tube battery 3 through the air guide pipe 4, flows evenly inside the single-tube battery 3, flows through the support part 5, and then flows into the anode gas exhaust chamber 6a below it, and is then discharged from the anode gas exhaust pipe 9.

[0095] Specifically, such as Figure 3 The diagram shows the combination of the anode gas inlet chamber 6b and the anode gas inlet pipe 10. The anode gas inlet chamber 6b is a closed cuboid. A hole is made on its upper surface to insert the gas guide pipe 4 and weld it closed. A hole is made on its left surface to insert the anode gas inlet pipe 10 and weld it closed.

[0096] like Figure 4 The diagram shows the combination of the anode gas exhaust chamber 6a and the anode gas exhaust pipe 9. The anode gas exhaust chamber 6a is a cuboid without upper and lower surfaces. It is placed directly above the anode gas inlet chamber 6b and sealed around its perimeter by welding. The support part 5 is placed directly above the anode gas exhaust chamber 6a and sealed around its perimeter by welding.

[0097] like Figure 5 The diagram shows the internal details of the support portion 5. A single-tube battery 3 is inserted into the upper surface of the support portion 5 through a hole. The diameter of the upper hole is greater than or equal to the diameter of the single-tube battery 3 (D + 3 mm), leaving a gap for sealing with sealant. The diameter of the lower hole is less than or equal to the diameter of the single-tube battery 3 (D - 4 mm). The single-tube battery 3 is then installed into the support portion 5 and sealed with sealant.

[0098] like Figure 6 The diagram shows the combination of the main body 1b of the collection chamber and the cathode gas exhaust pipe 8. The cathode gas exhaust pipe 8 is inserted into the opening on the left surface of the main body 1b. Its length and width are slightly smaller than the support part 5, so it can be directly inserted into the support part 5.

[0099] like Figure 7The internal structure diagram of the fixing plate 2 shown shows that the fixing plate 2 is placed directly above the main body 1b of the collection compartment. The single-tube battery 3 is reinforced by welding and sealing the four sides. This prevents the single-tube battery 3 from being too long and tilting or colliding. High-temperature insulating ceramic glue is coated inside the ring of the fixing plate 2 at the top of the battery to prevent it from contacting the single-tube battery 3 and conducting electricity.

[0100] like Figure 8 The diagram shows the combination of the top cover 1a of the collection chamber and the cathode gas inlet pipe 7. The top cover 1a of the collection chamber is then placed on top of the main body 1b of the collection chamber and connected by high-temperature sealant.

[0101] In summary, the modular design of tubular SOFCs, through its single-row design, independent gas path, and quick-release structure, fundamentally and significantly improves the gas distribution uniformity, durability, and output performance of the fuel cell stack. In the future, with further developments in materials and integration technologies, it will provide a more reliable, efficient, and low-cost solution for modular fuel cell structure design in future distributed power generation, industrial cogeneration, and other energy structures.

[0102] It should be noted that the various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner, with each embodiment focusing on the differences from other embodiments. The same or similar parts between the various embodiments can be referred to each other.

[0103] It should also be noted that, in this document, the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of the invention. Furthermore, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are only used to distinguish one entity or operation from another entity or operation, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations, nor should they be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. Moreover, the term "comprising" or any other variation thereof is intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or terminal device that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements, but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or terminal device.

[0104] The foregoing has provided a detailed description of a single-row combined tubular solid oxide fuel cell stack structure provided in this application. Specific examples have been used to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this application. The descriptions of the above embodiments are merely for the purpose of aiding understanding this application, and the content of this specification should not be construed as limiting this application. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications may occur in the specific implementation methods and application scope based on this application. It is neither necessary nor possible to exhaustively list all implementation methods here, and any obvious variations or modifications derived therefrom are still within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A single-row combined tubular solid oxide fuel cell stack structure, characterized in that, The structure includes: Multiple single-row modules, including multiple single-tube batteries, wherein the multiple single-tube batteries are arranged along the length direction of the single-row module and are one in the width direction; The plurality of the single-row modules are combined to form a fuel cell stack; each single-row module includes: The support includes fixing holes, each of the single-tube batteries is fixed in each fixing hole, and is connected to the anode gas exhaust chamber; A cathode gas distribution section, sealed and connected to the support section, and correspondingly connected to the cathode side of each single-tube battery, is used to introduce cathode gas into the single-tube battery and discharge the cathode tail gas after reaction. The cathode gas distribution section includes: a cathode gas cavity with a bottom opening sealed by the support section, through which multiple single-tube batteries extend from the support section to the cathode gas cavity; the cathode gas cavity includes an interconnected collection chamber body and a collection chamber top cover; a cathode gas inlet pipe connected to the cathode gas cavity at the location corresponding to the closed end of the single-tube battery; and a cathode gas exhaust pipe connected to the cathode gas cavity at a location away from the closed end. An anode gas distribution section, sealed and connected to the support section, and correspondingly connected to the anode side of each single-tube battery, is used to introduce anode gas into the single-tube battery and discharge the anode tail gas after reaction. The anode gas distribution section includes: an anode gas inlet chamber with an opening; an anode gas inlet pipe connected to the anode gas inlet chamber; an anode gas exhaust chamber located between the support section and the anode gas inlet chamber, and sealed by both; an anode gas exhaust pipe connected to the anode gas exhaust chamber; and a gas guide pipe, one end of which is inserted into and sealed in the opening, and passes through the anode gas exhaust chamber, extending into the interior of the single-tube battery mounted on the support section; wherein the extended termination end of the gas guide pipe is close to the closed end of the single-tube battery. The width of the single-row module matches the inner diameter of the single-tube battery in the width direction; A fixing plate is disposed within the cathode gas distribution section. The fixing plate has mounting holes, each of which allows each of the single-tube cells to pass through. The inner wall of each mounting hole is coated with an insulating material. The fixing plate has a hollow structure, and multiple diversion areas are provided on the fixing plate around each of the mounting holes.

2. The single-row combined tubular solid oxide fuel cell stack structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The single-row module is equipped with six single-tube batteries.

3. The single-row combined tubular solid oxide fuel cell stack structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, Fine-tuning needle valves are installed on the cathode gas inlet pipe and the anode gas inlet pipe respectively.

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