A SOFC system and a control method thereof

Abstract

The application discloses a SOFC system and a control method thereof. The SOFC system comprises a water supply unit and at least one power generation unit; the water supply unit at least comprises a deionized water preparation subunit and a water tank; the power generation unit at least comprises a heat exchanger and a first three-way electromagnetic valve; a first output end of the deionized water preparation subunit is connected with a first input end of the water tank; a first branch of the SOFC system is communicated with the water tank and the first three-way electromagnetic valve; a second branch is communicated with the first three-way electromagnetic valve and the water tank; a third branch is communicated with the first three-way electromagnetic valve, the power generation unit, the heat exchanger and the heat exchanger; a third end of the first three-way electromagnetic valve is connected with a first input end of the heat exchanger, a third input end of the heat exchanger is connected with an anode tail gas output by the power generation unit, and a second input end of the heat exchanger outputs the anode tail gas. The system can automatically prepare and supply water, and the anode tail gas is used for heating the water supply unit, so that the low-temperature operation reliability of the system is ensured.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of fuel cell technology, and in particular to an SOFC system and its control method. Background Technology

[0002] Solid oxide fuel cell systems (SOFC systems) are characterized by their cleanliness, high efficiency, and convenience, representing an important direction for the future development of the power generation industry. The main fuels in SOFC systems are natural gas and water. Natural gas and water react at high temperatures to produce hydrogen, which is then used to generate electricity via a fuel cell stack. Therefore, the water supply system is one of the key subsystems of an SOFC.

[0003] Currently, most SOFC systems require manual addition of deionized water before startup. When SOFC systems are applied on a power plant scale, the large number of power generation units necessitates the transport of large quantities of deionized water for maintenance. Furthermore, manual addition of deionized water is time-consuming, hindering system maintenance and increasing labor costs. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides an SOFC system and its control method to achieve automatic water production and supply, reduce maintenance time, and use anode tail gas to heat the water supply unit to prevent freezing and ensure the reliability of the system at low temperatures.

[0005] In a first aspect, the present invention provides an SOFC system, including a water supply unit and at least one power generation unit; The water supply unit is connected to the at least one power generation unit, and the water supply unit is used to provide deionized water to the power generation unit; The water supply unit includes at least a deionized water preparation subunit and a water tank; The power generation unit includes at least a heat exchanger and a first three-way solenoid valve; The input terminal of the deionized water preparation subunit is connected to tap water, and the first output terminal of the deionized water preparation subunit is connected to the first input terminal of the water tank. The SOFC system includes at least a first branch, a second branch, and a third branch; The first branch connects the first output end of the water tank to the first end of the first three-way solenoid valve; The second branch connects the second end of the first three-way solenoid valve to the second input end of the water tank; The third branch connects the second end of the first three-way solenoid valve, the input end of the power generation unit, the second input end of the heat exchanger, and the first output end of the heat exchanger. The third end of the first three-way solenoid valve is connected to the first input end of the heat exchanger, the third input end of the heat exchanger is connected to the anode tail gas output by the power generation unit, and the second input end of the heat exchanger outputs the anode tail gas.

[0006] Optionally, the first branch includes a first solenoid valve and a drain valve; The first end of the first solenoid valve is connected to the first output end of the water tank, and the second end of the first solenoid valve is connected to the first end of the first three-way solenoid valve and the first end of the drain valve.

[0007] Optionally, the second branch includes a circulating water pump and a second three-way solenoid valve; The second end of the first three-way solenoid valve is connected to the first end of the circulating water pump, the second end of the circulating water pump is connected to the first end of the second three-way solenoid valve, the second end of the second three-way solenoid valve is connected to the second input end of the water tank, and the third end of the second three-way solenoid valve is connected to the input end of the deionized water preparation subunit.

[0008] Optionally, the third branch includes a second solenoid valve, a water pump, and a flow meter; the power generation unit includes a heat box unit. The second end of the first three-way solenoid valve is connected to the first end of the second solenoid valve and the first output end of the heat exchanger, respectively. The second end of the second solenoid valve is connected to the first end of the water pump. The second end of the water pump is connected to the first end of the flow meter. The second end of the water pump is connected to the first end of the heat box unit. The second end of the heat box unit is connected to the second input end of the heat exchanger.

[0009] Optionally, the SOFC system may also include a third solenoid valve; The first end of the third solenoid valve is connected to tap water, and the second end of the third solenoid valve is connected to the input end of the deionized water preparation subunit.

[0010] Optionally, the SOFC system further includes a heating subunit, a temperature sensor, and a liquid level sensor; The heating subunit is used to heat the deionized water in the water tank; The temperature sensor is used to detect the temperature of the deionized water in the water tank; The liquid level sensor is used to detect the liquid level of the deionized water in the water tank.

[0011] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a control method for an SOFC system, applied to the SOFC system described in any one of the first aspects, the control method comprising: Start the SOFC system; Obtain real-time ambient temperature and real-time deionized water level in the tank; Obtain the preset ambient temperature value and the first preset liquid level value; When the real-time liquid level value is greater than or equal to the first preset liquid level value, and the real-time ambient temperature value is greater than the preset ambient temperature value, the first branch and the second branch are opened. When the real-time liquid level value is less than the first preset liquid level value, the third solenoid valve is opened; When the real-time ambient temperature value is less than or equal to the preset ambient temperature value, the heating subunit is turned on and the first three-way solenoid valve is enabled.

[0012] Optionally, after activating the heating subunit and enabling the first three-way solenoid valve, the following steps are also included: Obtain the real-time temperature value of the deionized water in the water tank; Obtain the preset temperature value; When the real-time temperature value is greater than or equal to the preset temperature value, the first branch and the second branch are activated.

[0013] Optionally, after opening the first and second branches, the following also applies: Open the second solenoid valve in the third branch; The real-time liquid level of the deionized water in the water tank is obtained again; Obtain a second preset liquid level value, wherein the second preset liquid level value is less than the first preset liquid level value; When the real-time liquid level value is less than the second preset liquid level value, the third solenoid valve is opened; When the real-time liquid level value is greater than or equal to the second preset liquid level value, the second solenoid valve and the second three-way solenoid valve are closed.

[0014] Optionally, after closing the second solenoid valve and the second three-way solenoid valve, the following method is also included: Obtain the real-time ambient temperature value again; When the real-time ambient temperature value is greater than the preset ambient temperature value, the first three-way solenoid valve, the heating subunit, and the circulating water pump are shut down. When the real-time ambient temperature value is less than or equal to the preset ambient temperature value and no water flow demand information is obtained, the drain valve is opened and the deionized water is drained. When the real-time ambient temperature value is less than or equal to the preset ambient temperature value and the water flow demand information is obtained, the process of obtaining the real-time ambient temperature value and the real-time liquid level value of deionized water in the water tank is repeated.

[0015] The technical solution of this invention provides an SOFC system, including a water supply unit and at least one power generation unit; the water supply unit is connected to the at least one power generation unit and is used to provide deionized water to the power generation unit; the water supply unit includes at least a deionized water preparation subunit and a water tank; the power generation unit includes at least a heat exchanger and a first three-way solenoid valve; the input end of the deionized water preparation subunit is connected to tap water, and the first output end of the deionized water preparation subunit is connected to the first input end of the water tank; the SOFC system includes at least a first branch, a second branch, and a third branch; the first branch connects the first output end of the water tank to the first end of the first three-way solenoid valve; the second branch connects the second end of the first three-way solenoid valve to the second input end of the water tank; the third branch connects the second end of the first three-way solenoid valve, the input end of the power generation unit, the second input end of the heat exchanger, and the first output end of the heat exchanger; the third end of the first three-way solenoid valve is connected to the first input end of the heat exchanger, the third input end of the heat exchanger is connected to the anode tail gas output by the power generation unit, and the second input end of the heat exchanger outputs the anode tail gas. This system enables automatic water production and supply, reduces maintenance time, and utilizes anode exhaust gas to heat the water supply unit, preventing freezing and ensuring reliable low-temperature operation.

[0016] It should be understood that the description in this section is not intended to identify key or essential features of the embodiments of the present invention, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the invention. Other features of the invention will become readily apparent from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an SOFC system provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 A flowchart of a control method for an SOFC system provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 A flowchart of another control method for an SOFC system provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 A flowchart of another control method for an SOFC system provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 A flowchart of another control method for an SOFC system provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0019] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present invention, the technical solutions of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort should fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0020] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this invention are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of the invention described herein can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.

[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an SOFC system provided in an embodiment of the present invention. The SOFC system includes a water supply unit 101 and at least one power generation unit 102. The water supply unit 101 is connected to at least one power generation unit 102 and is used to supply deionized water to the power generation unit 102. The water supply unit 101 includes at least a deionized water preparation subunit 103 and a water tank 104. The power generation unit 102 includes at least a heat exchanger 105 and a first three-way solenoid valve 106. The input end of the deionized water preparation subunit 103 is connected to tap water, and the first output end of the deionized water preparation subunit 103 is connected to the first input end of the water tank 104. The SOFC system includes at least a first branch Branch 21, second branch 22, and third branch 23; first branch 21 connects the first output end of water tank 104 to the first end of first three-way solenoid valve 106; second branch 22 connects the second end of first three-way solenoid valve 106 to the second input end of water tank 104; third branch 23 connects the second end of first three-way solenoid valve 106, the input end of power generation unit 102, the second input end of heat exchanger 105, and the first output end of heat exchanger 105; the third end of first three-way solenoid valve 106 is connected to the first input end of heat exchanger 105, the third input end of heat exchanger 105 is connected to the anode tail gas output by power generation unit 102, and the second input end of heat exchanger 105 outputs anode tail gas.

[0022] The SOFC system includes a water supply unit 101 and at least one power generation unit 102, both mounted on a base. The water supply unit 101 is independently configured and can simultaneously supply deionized water to multiple power generation units 102. The water tank 104 is eliminated in the power generation unit 102, reducing its volume. The water supply unit 101 includes a deionized water preparation subunit 103 and a water tank 104. The deionized water preparation unit can use existing commercially available deionized water equipment or be custom-designed, including a deionization tank and reverse osmosis membrane. The main function of the deionized water preparation unit is to treat tap water to meet the deionized water resistivity or conductivity requirements of the SOFC system. The input terminal of the deionized water preparation subunit 103 is connected to tap water. Simply connecting to a tap water pipe allows the subunit to prepare deionized water on-site, reducing maintenance difficulty. Furthermore, the water supply unit 101 is connected to multiple power generation units 102, enabling real-time water supply and significantly reducing maintenance and deionized water refill time. The first output terminal of the deionized water preparation subunit 103 is connected to the first input terminal of the water tank 104 for storing the prepared deionized water. The deionized water preparation subunit 103 also includes a wastewater discharge port for discharging wastewater. The power generation unit 102 includes at least a heat exchanger 105 and a first three-way solenoid valve 106. The heat exchanger 105 utilizes the anode tail gas generated by the fuel cell stack in the power generation unit 102 for heating, recovering the high-temperature anode tail gas as a heat source to heat the deionized water flowing through the heat exchanger 105. This prevents the water supply unit 101 from freezing at low temperatures during water supply, improving the reliability of the SOFC system at low temperatures.

[0023] The SOFC system includes a first branch 21, which connects the first output terminal of the water tank 104 to the first terminal of the first three-way solenoid valve 106 via a pipe, allowing deionized water in the water tank 104 to flow in the pipe. The SOFC system also includes a second branch 22, which connects the second terminal of the first three-way solenoid valve 106 to the second input terminal of the water tank 104 via a pipe. When the first three-way solenoid valve 106 is disabled, deionized water can be output from the water tank 104, pass through the first branch 21 and the second branch 22, and return to the water tank 104, forming a deionized water circulation system. The SOFC system also includes a third branch 23, which connects the second terminal of the first three-way solenoid valve 106, the input terminal of the power generation unit 102, the second input terminal of the heat exchanger 105, and the first output terminal of the heat exchanger 105 via a pipe. When supplying water to the power generation unit 102, the deionized water output from the second end of the first three-way solenoid valve 106 flows sequentially through the power generation unit 102. After supplying the deionized water required by the power generation unit 102, it flows into the second input end of the heat exchanger 105. The second input end is the cold end, used for the inflow of deionized water. The third input end of the heat exchanger 105 is connected to the anode tail gas output from the power generation unit 102. The third input end is the hot end, used for the inflow of high-temperature anode tail gas. The second input end of the heat exchanger 105 outputs anode tail gas, which heats the heat exchanger 105, thereby heating the deionized water flowing through the heat exchanger 105. This ensures safe and reliable water supply at low temperatures and improves system reliability. The third end of the first three-way solenoid valve 106 is connected to the first input end of the heat exchanger 105. When the first three-way solenoid valve 106 is enabled, the first branch 21, the second branch 22, and the heat exchanger 105 can be connected, so that the heat exchanger 105 can heat the deionized water output from the water tank 104 to increase the temperature of the deionized water and prevent freezing. When a single heat exchanger 105 cannot meet the anti-freezing requirements, multiple heat exchangers 105 can be connected in series in the deionized water flow pipeline to ensure the heating effect.

[0024] In this embodiment of the invention, an SOFC system is configured with a water supply unit and at least one power generation unit. The water supply unit includes at least a deionized water preparation subunit and a water tank. The power generation unit includes at least a heat exchanger and a first three-way solenoid valve. The first output terminal of the deionized water preparation subunit is connected to the first input terminal of the water tank. A first branch in the SOFC system connects the water tank and the first three-way solenoid valve; a second branch connects the first three-way solenoid valve and the water tank; a third branch connects the first three-way solenoid valve, the power generation unit, the heat exchanger, and the heat exchanger itself. The third terminal of the first three-way solenoid valve is connected to the first input terminal of the heat exchanger, the third input terminal of the heat exchanger is connected to the anode tail gas output from the power generation unit, and the second input terminal of the heat exchanger outputs the anode tail gas. This achieves automatic water production and supply, and utilizes the anode tail gas to heat the water supply unit, ensuring reliable low-temperature operation of the system.

[0025] Optional, continue to refer to Figure 1 The first branch 21 includes a first solenoid valve 107 and a drain valve 108; the first end of the first solenoid valve 107 is connected to the first output end of the water tank 104, and the second end of the first solenoid valve 107 is connected to the first end of the first three-way solenoid valve 106 and the first end of the drain valve 108 respectively.

[0026] The first branch 21 is equipped with a first solenoid valve 107. The first end of the first solenoid valve 107 is connected to the first output end of the water tank 104, and the second end of the first solenoid valve 107 is connected to the first end of a first three-way solenoid valve 106. When the first solenoid valve 107 is open, deionized water in the water tank 104 can flow out and into the first three-way solenoid valve 106, thus supplying deionized water. The first branch 21 also includes a drain valve 108, a flow control component installed on the main pipeline. The second end of the first solenoid valve 107 is connected to the first end of the drain valve 108, and the first end of the drain valve 108 is also connected to the second end of the first solenoid valve 107. When the SOFC system has no water flow requirement or to prevent freezing, the drain valve 108 can be opened to drain the deionized water from the water tank 104 and the pipeline.

[0027] Optional, continue to refer to Figure 1 The second branch 22 includes a circulating water pump 109 and a second three-way solenoid valve 110; the second end of the first three-way solenoid valve 106 is connected to the first end of the circulating water pump 109, the second end of the circulating water pump 109 is connected to the first end of the second three-way solenoid valve 110, the second end of the second three-way solenoid valve 110 is connected to the second input end of the water tank 104, and the third end of the second three-way solenoid valve 110 is connected to the input end of the deionized water preparation subunit 103.

[0028] The second branch 22 is equipped with a circulating water pump 109 and a two-way solenoid valve 110. The circulating water pump 109 is open and can provide sufficient power to circulate deionized water to meet the deionized water requirements of at least one light-emitting unit. When the head of a single circulating water pump 109 is insufficient, multiple circulating water pumps 109 can be connected in series in the pipeline to ensure the deionized water supply effect. The first end of the two-way solenoid valve 110 is connected to the second end of the circulating water pump 109, the second end of the two-way solenoid valve 110 is connected to the second input end of the water tank 104, and the third end of the two-way solenoid valve 110 is connected to the input end of the deionized water preparation subunit 103. When the two-way solenoid valve 110 fails to open, it connects the circulating water pump 109 and the water tank 104, allowing the deionized water to circulate back to the water tank 104. When the second three-way solenoid valve 110 is enabled, it connects the circulating water pump 109 and the deionized water preparation subunit 103, so that deionized water can still enter the deionized water preparation device, thereby reducing the amount of tap water used and improving the deionized water preparation efficiency.

[0029] Optional, continue to refer to Figure 1 The third branch 23 includes a second solenoid valve 111, a water pump 112, and a flow meter 113; the power generation unit 102 includes a heat box unit 114; the second end of the first three-way solenoid valve 106 is connected to the first end of the second solenoid valve 111 and the first output end of the heat exchanger 105, the second end of the second solenoid valve 111 is connected to the first end of the water pump 112, the second end of the water pump 112 is connected to the first end of the flow meter 113, the second end of the water pump 112 is connected to the first end of the heat box unit 114, and the second end of the heat box unit 114 is connected to the second input end of the heat exchanger 105.

[0030] The third branch 23 includes a second solenoid valve 111, a water pump 112, and a flow meter 113 connected in sequence. When the second solenoid valve 111 is open, it ensures that deionized water can be supplied to the power generation unit 102. When the water pump 112 is open, it provides power to control the flow rate of deionized water. If necessary, the water pump 112 can also be reversed to empty the deionized water in the pipeline. The flow meter 113 can detect the flow rate of deionized water in the pipeline in real time, thereby accurately meeting the deionized water requirements of the power generation unit 102.

[0031] In addition, a first pressure sensor 31 can be installed on the pipeline between the second solenoid valve 111 and the water pump 112, and a second pressure sensor 32 can be installed on the pipeline between the water pump 112 and the flow meter 113. The first pressure sensor 31 can detect the first pipeline pressure at the first end of the water pump 112, and the second pressure sensor 32 can detect the second pipeline pressure at the second end of the water pump 112. When the flow meter 113 malfunctions, the changes in the first and second pipeline pressures can be used as the basis for judging the deionized water flow rate. When the water pump 112 reverses direction, the changes in the first and second pipeline pressures can also be used to determine whether the pipeline is empty.

[0032] Optional, continue to refer to Figure 1 The SOFC system also includes a third solenoid valve 115; the first end of the third solenoid valve 115 is connected to tap water, and the second end of the third solenoid valve 115 is connected to the input end of the deionized water preparation subunit 103.

[0033] The SOFC system is also equipped with a third solenoid valve 115, which is located between the tap water supply end and the input end of the deionized water preparation subunit 103. When the third solenoid valve 115 is opened, tap water can enter the deionized water preparation subunit 103 for treatment.

[0034] Optional, continue to refer to Figure 1The SOFC system also includes a heating subunit 116, a temperature sensor 117, and a level sensor 118; the heating subunit 116 is used to heat the deionized water in the water tank 104; the temperature sensor 117 is used to detect the temperature of the deionized water in the water tank 104; and the level sensor 118 is used to detect the level of the deionized water in the water tank 104.

[0035] The SOFC system also includes a heating subunit 116, which is installed on the water tank 104. When activated, the heating subunit 116 heats the deionized water in the water tank 104. The SOFC system also includes a temperature sensor 117, which is also installed on the water tank 104. The temperature sensor 117 can monitor the temperature of the deionized water in the water tank 104 in real time to prevent the deionized water from freezing and affecting the supply. The temperature sensor 117 can also collect ambient temperature data. The SOFC system also includes a level sensor 118, which is also installed in the water tank 104. The level sensor 118 can monitor the level of the deionized water in the water tank 104 in real time to accurately control the water production rate of the deionized water preparation subunit 103.

[0036] Based on the same inventive concept, this invention also provides a control method for an SOFC system. Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating a control method for an SOFC system according to an embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment is applicable to SOFC system control situations. The method can be executed by a control device of the SOFC system, which can be implemented in hardware and / or software and can be configured within the SOFC system. Figure 2 As shown, the control method includes: S101, Start the SOFC system.

[0037] Once started, the SOFC system ignites and heats up, beginning its operation.

[0038] S102, acquire the real-time ambient temperature value and the real-time liquid level value of deionized water in the water tank.

[0039] This requires acquiring the real-time level of deionized water in the tank to precisely control the water production rate of the deionized water preparation subunit. It also requires acquiring the real-time ambient temperature to determine the operating environment of the SOCF system and prevent the deionized water from freezing due to low-temperature operation.

[0040] S103, obtain the preset ambient temperature value and the first preset liquid level value.

[0041] The preset ambient temperature value and the first preset liquid level value can be set according to actual design requirements, and the embodiments of the present invention do not impose specific limitations.

[0042] S104. Determine whether the real-time liquid level value is greater than or equal to the first preset liquid level value. If yes, proceed to step S105; otherwise, proceed to step S106.

[0043] S105, determine whether the real-time ambient temperature value is less than or equal to the preset ambient temperature value. If yes, proceed to step S107; otherwise, proceed to step S108.

[0044] S106, open the third solenoid valve.

[0045] When the real-time liquid level is lower than the first preset liquid level, it is considered that there is less deionized water in the water tank at this time. Then, the third solenoid valve is opened, and the deionized water preparation subunit starts to work to prepare deionized water.

[0046] S107, turn on the heating subunit and enable the first three-way solenoid valve.

[0047] When the real-time liquid level is greater than the first preset liquid level and the real-time ambient temperature is less than or equal to the preset ambient temperature, it is considered that the current ambient temperature is low and there will be a phenomenon of deionized water freezing. Then, the heating subunit is turned on and the first three-way solenoid valve is enabled. The heating subunit heats the deionized water in the water tank, and the first three-way solenoid valve is enabled to connect the first branch, the second branch and the heat exchanger. The heat exchanger uses the anode tail gas for heating, and then uses the heat exchanger to heat the deionized water.

[0048] S108, open the first and second branches.

[0049] Specifically, when the real-time liquid level is greater than the first preset liquid level and the real-time ambient temperature is greater than the preset ambient temperature, it is considered that the current deionized water in the tank meets the supply demand, no water production is required, and the ambient temperature is high enough to prevent the deionized water from freezing. Therefore, the first and second branches can be directly opened to supply deionized water to the light-emitting unit. Specifically, the first solenoid valve is opened, and the deionized water flows into the pipeline and power generation unit by gravity. Then, the circulating water pump is turned on, and the deionized water in the tank fills the main pipeline under the pump's suction. In the power generation unit, it exchanges heat with the system's anode exhaust gas, causing the deionized water temperature to rise. This ensures the effective supply of deionized water, prevents the water supply unit from freezing at low temperatures, and greatly improves the reliability of the SOFC system at low temperatures.

[0050] This invention, in its embodiment, activates an SOFC system; acquires real-time ambient temperature and the real-time level of deionized water in the tank; acquires a preset ambient temperature and a first preset level; when the real-time level is greater than or equal to the first preset level and the real-time ambient temperature is greater than the preset ambient temperature, the first and second branches are activated; when the real-time level is less than the first preset level, the third solenoid valve is opened; when the real-time ambient temperature is less than or equal to the preset ambient temperature, the heating subunit is activated and the first three-way solenoid valve is enabled. This achieves automatic water production and supply, reduces maintenance time, and utilizes anode exhaust gas to heat the water supply unit, preventing freezing and ensuring reliable low-temperature operation.

[0051] Optional, Figure 3 A flowchart of another control method for an SOFC system provided in an embodiment of the present invention is shown below. Figure 3 As shown, the control method includes: S201, Start the SOFC system.

[0052] S202, obtain the real-time ambient temperature value and the real-time liquid level value of deionized water in the water tank.

[0053] S203, obtain the preset ambient temperature value and the first preset liquid level value.

[0054] S204. Determine whether the real-time liquid level value is greater than or equal to the first preset liquid level value. If yes, proceed to step S205; otherwise, proceed to step S206.

[0055] S205, determine whether the real-time ambient temperature value is less than or equal to the preset ambient temperature value. If yes, proceed to step S207; otherwise, proceed to step S211.

[0056] S206, open the third solenoid valve.

[0057] S207, turn on the heating subunit and enable the first three-way solenoid valve.

[0058] S208, obtain the real-time temperature value of the deionized water in the water tank.

[0059] In this process, after heating the deionized water, the real-time temperature value of the deionized water in the tank is obtained again to determine whether the temperature of the heated deionized water meets the water supply requirements.

[0060] S209, obtain the preset temperature value.

[0061] The preset temperature value can be set according to actual design requirements, and the embodiments of the present invention do not impose specific limitations.

[0062] S210, if the real-time temperature value is greater than or equal to the preset temperature value, then proceed to step S211.

[0063] Specifically, if the real-time temperature of the deionized water is greater than or equal to the preset temperature, it is considered that the temperature of the deionized water meets the supply requirements, and the first and second branches are opened to supply water.

[0064] S211, open the first and second branches.

[0065] In this embodiment of the invention, after activating the heating subunit and enabling the first three-way solenoid valve, the real-time temperature value of the deionized water in the water tank is obtained; a preset temperature value is obtained; when the real-time temperature value is greater than or equal to the preset temperature value, the first branch and the second branch are activated to ensure the reliability of the system in a low-temperature environment.

[0066] Optional, Figure 4 A flowchart of another control method for an SOFC system provided in an embodiment of the present invention is shown below. Figure 4 As shown, the control method includes: S301, Start the SOFC system.

[0067] S302, acquires the real-time ambient temperature value and the real-time liquid level value of deionized water in the water tank.

[0068] S303, obtain the preset ambient temperature value and the first preset liquid level value.

[0069] S304. Determine whether the real-time liquid level value is greater than or equal to the first preset liquid level value. If yes, proceed to step S305; otherwise, proceed to step S306.

[0070] S305, determine whether the real-time ambient temperature value is less than or equal to the preset ambient temperature value. If yes, proceed to step S307; otherwise, proceed to step S311.

[0071] S306, open the third solenoid valve.

[0072] S307, turn on the heating subunit and enable the first three-way solenoid valve.

[0073] S308, obtains the real-time temperature value of deionized water in the water tank.

[0074] S309, obtain the preset temperature value.

[0075] S310, If the real-time temperature value is greater than or equal to the preset temperature value, then proceed to step S311.

[0076] S311, open the first and second branches.

[0077] S312, open the second solenoid valve in the third branch.

[0078] After the water supply is turned on, the second solenoid valve is opened, and deionized water flows into the power generation unit. When the power generation unit requires deionized water, the water pump in the third branch can be turned on to provide power to draw deionized water from the pipeline, and the water intake is controlled by the flow meter in the third branch.

[0079] S313, obtain the real-time liquid level value of deionized water in the water tank again.

[0080] After a period of water supply, the real-time level of deionized water in the tank must be measured again to prevent insufficient deionized water from meeting the water supply demand.

[0081] S314, obtain the second preset liquid level value, which is less than the first preset liquid level value.

[0082] The second preset liquid level value can be selected according to actual design requirements, and this embodiment of the invention does not impose specific limitations. The second preset liquid level value is lower than the first preset liquid level value, where the first preset liquid level value can be a high liquid level value and the second preset liquid level value can be a low liquid level value.

[0083] S315, determine whether the real-time liquid level value is less than the second preset liquid level value. If yes, proceed to step S306; otherwise, proceed to step S316.

[0084] S316, close the second solenoid valve and the second three-way solenoid valve.

[0085] When the real-time liquid level is lower than the second preset liquid level, it is considered that there is insufficient deionized water. The third solenoid valve is then opened, and the deionized water preparation subunit begins operation to prepare deionized water. The second three-way solenoid valve can also be enabled to allow circulating water to re-enter the vertical flow through the deionized water preparation subunit, reducing tap water consumption and improving deionized water preparation efficiency. When the real-time liquid level is greater than or equal to the second preset liquid level, water is supplied to each power generation unit normally. After water supply is completed, the second and third solenoid valves are closed, and the water pump in the third branch can also be shut off to prevent deionized water from re-entering the power generation unit. At this time, the deionized water preparation subunit ceases water production, and the deionized water in the tank undergoes internal circulation.

[0086] In this embodiment of the invention, after opening the first and second branches, the second solenoid valve in the third branch is opened; the real-time liquid level of the deionized water in the water tank is acquired again; a second preset liquid level value is acquired, which is less than the first preset liquid level value; when the real-time liquid level value is less than the second preset liquid level value, the third solenoid valve is opened; when the real-time liquid level value is greater than or equal to the second preset liquid level value, the second solenoid valve and the second three-way solenoid valve are closed. This ensures the supply effect of deionized water, prevents the water supply unit from freezing at low temperatures, and greatly improves the reliability of the SOFC system at low temperatures.

[0087] Optional, Figure 5 A flowchart of another control method for an SOFC system provided in an embodiment of the present invention is shown below. Figure 5 As shown, the control method includes: S401, Start the SOFC system.

[0088] S402, acquires the real-time ambient temperature value and the real-time liquid level value of deionized water in the water tank.

[0089] S403, obtain the preset ambient temperature value and the first preset liquid level value.

[0090] S404, determine whether the real-time liquid level value is greater than or equal to the first preset liquid level value. If yes, proceed to step S405; otherwise, proceed to step S406.

[0091] S405, determine whether the real-time ambient temperature value is less than or equal to the preset ambient temperature value. If yes, proceed to step S407; otherwise, proceed to step S411.

[0092] S406, open the third solenoid valve.

[0093] S407, turn on the heating subunit and enable the first three-way solenoid valve.

[0094] S408, obtain the real-time temperature value of deionized water in the water tank.

[0095] S409, obtain the preset temperature value.

[0096] S410, If the real-time temperature value is greater than or equal to the preset temperature value, then proceed to step S411.

[0097] S411, open the first and second branches.

[0098] S412, open the second solenoid valve in the third branch.

[0099] S413, obtain the real-time liquid level value of deionized water in the water tank again.

[0100] S414, obtain the second preset liquid level value, which is less than the first preset liquid level value.

[0101] S415, determine whether the real-time liquid level value is less than the second preset liquid level value. If yes, proceed to step S406; otherwise, proceed to step S416.

[0102] S416, close the second solenoid valve and the second three-way solenoid valve.

[0103] S417, obtain the real-time ambient temperature value again.

[0104] S418, determine whether the real-time ambient temperature value is greater than the preset ambient temperature value. If yes, proceed to step S419; otherwise, proceed to step S420.

[0105] S419, shut down the first three-way solenoid valve, heating subunit, and circulating water pump.

[0106] After the water supply to the light-emitting unit is completed, the real-time ambient temperature value needs to be obtained again. When the real-time ambient temperature value is greater than the preset ambient temperature value, it is considered that the ambient temperature is high and there will be no freezing of deionized water. Then, the first three-way solenoid valve, the heating sub-unit and the circulating water pump are shut down.

[0107] S420: Do you need to obtain water flow demand information? If yes, repeat step S402; otherwise, execute step S421.

[0108] S421, open the drain valve and drain the deionized water.

[0109] Specifically, when the real-time ambient temperature is less than or equal to the preset ambient temperature, it is determined whether water flow demand information was obtained during system shutdown. If water flow demand information is obtained, step S402 continues to be executed after system shutdown; if water flow demand information is not obtained, it is assumed that there is no water flow demand after system shutdown, and the drain valve is opened to drain the deionized water in the pipeline. All components in the system also need to be shut down.

[0110] This invention, in its embodiment, acquires the real-time ambient temperature value again after closing the second solenoid valve and the second three-way solenoid valve. When the real-time ambient temperature value is greater than a preset ambient temperature value, the first three-way solenoid valve, the heating subunit, and the circulating water pump are closed. When the real-time ambient temperature value is less than or equal to the preset ambient temperature value and no water flow demand information is acquired, the drain valve is opened and the deionized water is drained. When the real-time ambient temperature value is less than or equal to the preset ambient temperature value and water flow demand information is acquired, the process of acquiring the real-time ambient temperature value and the real-time liquid level of the deionized water in the tank is repeated. This ensures the supply effect of deionized water, prevents the water supply unit from freezing at low temperatures, and greatly improves the reliability of the SOFC system at low temperatures.

[0111] The specific embodiments described above do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of this invention. Those skilled in the art should understand that various modifications, combinations, sub-combinations, and substitutions can be made according to design requirements and other factors. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this invention should be included within the scope of protection of this invention.

Claims

1. An SOFC system, characterized in that, It includes a water supply unit (101) and at least one power generation unit (102). The water supply unit (101) is connected to the at least one power generation unit (102), and the water supply unit (101) is used to provide deionized water to the power generation unit (102); The water supply unit (101) includes at least a deionized water preparation subunit (103) and a water tank (104). The power generation unit (102) includes at least a heat exchanger (105) and a first three-way solenoid valve (106). The input end of the deionized water preparation subunit (103) is connected to tap water, and the first output end of the deionized water preparation subunit (103) is connected to the first input end of the water tank (104). The SOFC system includes at least a first branch (21), a second branch (22) and a third branch (23). The first branch (21) connects the first output end of the water tank (104) to the first end of the first three-way solenoid valve (106); The second branch (22) connects the second end of the first three-way solenoid valve (106) to the second input end of the water tank (104); The third branch (23) connects the second end of the first three-way solenoid valve (106), the input end of the power generation unit (102), the second input end of the heat exchanger (105), and the first output end of the heat exchanger (105). The third end of the first three-way solenoid valve (106) is connected to the first input end of the heat exchanger (105), the third input end of the heat exchanger (105) is connected to the anode tail gas output by the power generation unit (102), and the second input end of the (105) outputs the anode tail gas.

2. The SOFC system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first branch (21) includes a first solenoid valve (107) and a drain valve (108). The first end of the first solenoid valve (107) is connected to the first output end of the water tank (104), and the second end of the first solenoid valve (107) is connected to the first end of the first three-way solenoid valve (106) and the first end of the drain valve (108) respectively.

3. The SOFC system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second branch (22) includes a circulating water pump (109) and a second three-way solenoid valve (110); The second end of the first three-way solenoid valve (106) is connected to the first end of the circulating water pump (109), the second end of the circulating water pump (109) is connected to the first end of the second three-way solenoid valve (110), the second end of the second three-way solenoid valve (110) is connected to the second input end of the water tank (104), and the third end of the second three-way solenoid valve (110) is connected to the input end of the deionized water preparation subunit (103).

4. The SOFC system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The third branch (23) includes a second solenoid valve (111), a water pump (112), and a flow meter (113); the power generation unit (102) includes a heat box unit (114). The second end of the first three-way solenoid valve (106) is connected to the first end of the second solenoid valve (111) and the first output end of the heat exchanger (105), respectively. The second end of the second solenoid valve (111) is connected to the first end of the water pump (112). The second end of the water pump (112) is connected to the first end of the flow meter (113). The second end of the water pump (112) is connected to the first end of the heat box unit (114). The second end of the heat box unit (114) is connected to the second input end of the heat exchanger (105).

5. The SOFC system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The SOFC system also includes a third solenoid valve (115). The first end of the third solenoid valve (115) is connected to tap water, and the second end of the third solenoid valve (115) is connected to the input end of the deionized water preparation subunit (103).

6. The SOFC system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The SOFC system also includes a heating subunit (116), a temperature sensor (117), and a liquid level sensor (118). The heating subunit (116) is used to heat the deionized water in the water tank (104); The temperature sensor (117) is used to detect the temperature of the deionized water in the water tank (104); The liquid level sensor (118) is used to detect the liquid level of the deionized water in the water tank (104).

7. A control method for an SOFC system, characterized in that, The control method, applied to the SOFC system according to any one of claims 1-6, comprises: Start the SOFC system; Obtain real-time ambient temperature and real-time deionized water level in the tank; Obtain the preset ambient temperature value and the first preset liquid level value; When the real-time liquid level value is greater than or equal to the first preset liquid level value, and the real-time ambient temperature value is greater than the preset ambient temperature value, the first branch and the second branch are opened. When the real-time liquid level value is less than the first preset liquid level value, the third solenoid valve is opened; When the real-time ambient temperature value is less than or equal to the preset ambient temperature value, the heating subunit is turned on and the first three-way solenoid valve is enabled.

8. The control method for the SOFC system according to claim 7, characterized in that, After activating the heating subunit and enabling the first three-way solenoid valve, the following steps are also included: Obtain the real-time temperature value of the deionized water in the water tank; Obtain the preset temperature value; When the real-time temperature value is greater than or equal to the preset temperature value, the first branch and the second branch are activated.

9. The control method for the SOFC system according to claim 7, characterized in that, After opening the first and second branches, the following also applies: Open the second solenoid valve in the third branch; The real-time liquid level of the deionized water in the water tank is obtained again; Obtain a second preset liquid level value, wherein the second preset liquid level value is less than the first preset liquid level value; When the real-time liquid level value is less than the second preset liquid level value, the third solenoid valve is opened; When the real-time liquid level value is greater than or equal to the second preset liquid level value, the second solenoid valve and the second three-way solenoid valve are closed.

10. The control method for the SOFC system according to claim 9, characterized in that, After closing the second solenoid valve and the second three-way solenoid valve, the following is also included: Obtain the real-time ambient temperature value again; When the real-time ambient temperature value is greater than the preset ambient temperature value, the first three-way solenoid valve, the heating subunit, and the circulating water pump are shut down. When the real-time ambient temperature value is less than or equal to the preset ambient temperature value and no water flow demand information is obtained, the drain valve is opened and the deionized water is drained. When the real-time ambient temperature value is less than or equal to the preset ambient temperature value and the water flow demand information is obtained, the process of obtaining the real-time ambient temperature value and the real-time liquid level value of deionized water in the water tank is repeated.

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