Power generation unit aggregate

Abstract

To provide a power generation unit aggregate that can reduce a construction period for installation of a plurality of power generation units.SOLUTION: A power generation unit aggregate 1000 comprises: a plurality of N power generation units 100 that are arranged side by side in a separate or closely adhered state in a left and right direction; and a basic bed 70 that is fixed to an installation floor, and on which the plurality of N power generation units 100 are placed. The power generation unit aggregate 1000 may comprise connection casings 80 that are each arranged between the adjacent power generation units, of the plurality of power generation units 100 in a separate state in the left and right direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a power generation unit assembly using a fuel cell or the like. [Background technology]

[0002] It is expected that consumers will be able to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by switching some of the commercial electricity they purchase from power companies to self-generated electricity. For example, while the primary energy efficiency of thermal power plants fueled by coal or LNG is around 40%, the primary energy efficiency of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), which generate electricity by reforming city gas, which is primarily composed of methane, is expected to be 50% to 65%. Therefore, increasing the proportion of self-generated electricity can contribute to reducing the environmental burden.

[0003] Furthermore, by realizing a system that can independently maintain the power supply during power outages caused by natural disasters, it is expected that the adverse effects on social life and economic activity can be reduced. For example, solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) can independently generate electricity and supply power to the outside world as long as the city gas supply is not cut off. In the case of an earthquake, depending on its scale, gas infrastructure may be damaged, but in the case of a typhoon, there is almost no impact on the gas infrastructure, so the power supply can continue.

[0004] Patent Documents 1 and 2 disclose a power supply system (fuel cell system) that operates in parallel with a commercial power system and supplies power to power demand facilities. When there is a high demand during operation, such as in a power demand facility such as a factory, the power supply system is made up of multiple power generation units (for example, fuel cell units). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-019430 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-019431

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0006] Conventionally, it has been recommended to install a power generation unit on a reinforced concrete foundation tightly fastened with a floor slab and reinforcing bars for each unit. When installing a concrete foundation, since it goes through a plurality of processes such as steel bar placement, formwork installation, concrete placement, and formwork removal, it is difficult to complete the installation of the concrete foundation in a few days. Therefore, it has taken several weeks until the installation work of multiple power generation units is completed and the entire set of equipment of the power supply system is delivered to the customer after the commissioning test is carried out.

[0007] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide an aggregate of power generation units capable of shortening the installation work period for a plurality of power generation units.

MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEMS

[0008] The aggregate of power generation units according to the present invention includes a plurality of N power generation units arranged side by side in a state of being separated or in close contact with each other in the left-right direction, and a foundation bed fixed to the installation floor surface on which the plurality of N power generation units are placed.

EFFECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an aggregate of power generation units capable of shortening the installation work period for a plurality of power generation units.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010]

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0012] 1.1 Outline of the Configuration of the Power Generation Unit First, an outline of the configuration of the power generation unit used in the power supply system according to this embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the power generation unit according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the power generation unit 100 is of a type using a fuel cell, and includes a plurality of cell stacks 1, a reformer 2, a burner 3, an evaporator 4, an air preheater 5, an anode off-gas cooler 6, an anode off-gas condenser 7, a CO oxidizer (carbon monoxide oxidizer) 8, a condensate recovery tank 9, a first raw fuel blower 10, a first air blower 11, a water pump 12, a second raw fuel blower 13, a second air blower 14, a third air blower 15, a power conditioner 16, and a local controller 17.

[0013] In the example of this embodiment, a total of eight cell stacks 1 are provided, including those not shown in FIG. 1.

[0014] The power generation unit 100 also includes lines (pipelines) such as a raw fuel line La, a mixed gas line Lb, an anode fuel line Lc, an anode off-gas line Ld, a cathode air line Le, a cathode off-gas line Lf, a combustion gas line Lg, a burner cooling air line Lh, a reformed water line Li, a startup air line Lj, a cooling air line Lk, and a condensate recovery line Lw.

[0015] The anode fuel line Lc includes a first distribution manifold Ma that serves as a main pipe for introducing anode fuel, and the cathode air line Le includes a second distribution manifold Mb that serves as a main pipe for introducing cathode air. These distribution manifolds Ma and Mb have an inlet and a plurality of outlets corresponding to each cell stack 1, and cause the fluid flowing into the inlet to flow out from each outlet.

[0016] The anode off-gas line Ld includes a first collection manifold Mc that serves as the main pipe for discharging anode off-gas, and the cathode off-gas line Lf includes a second collection manifold Md that serves as the main pipe for discharging cathode off-gas. These collection manifolds Mc and Md have a plurality of inlets and outlets corresponding to each cell stack 1, and allow the fluid flowing into each inlet to flow out from the outlet.

[0017] The combustion gas line Lg includes a heat radiation cylinder Za and a combustion gas pipe Zb. The cooling air line Lk includes a cooling pipe Zc and a collection pipe Lk1.

[0018] The raw fuel line La is a pipe connecting the fuel intake port E1 and the burner 3, and a second raw fuel blower 13 is arranged in this pipe. The second raw fuel blower 13 is a device that boosts the pressure of the raw fuel gas Gf (for example, methane-containing gas such as city gas 13A) taken in from the fuel intake port E1 and sends it to the downstream side of the raw fuel line La. Typically, it is driven during the startup operation of the power generation unit 100.

[0019] The mixed gas line Lb is a pipe connecting the fuel intake port E2 and the reformer 2, and in this pipe, in order from the upstream side, a first raw fuel blower 10, an evaporator 4, and a first bellows type expansion joint B1 are arranged. The first raw fuel blower 10 is a device that boosts the pressure of the raw fuel gas Ga taken in from the fuel intake port E2 and sends it to the downstream side of the mixed gas line Lb. Typically, it is driven during the power generation operation of the power generation unit 100.

[0020] The anode fuel line Lc is a pipe connecting the reformer 2 and the anode of each cell stack 1. More specifically, the anode fuel line Lc includes, in order from the upstream side, a pipe connecting the reformer 2 and the inlet of the first distribution manifold Ma, the first distribution manifold Ma, and eight pipes (the branch pipes of the first distribution manifold Ma) connecting each outlet of the first distribution manifold Ma and the anode of each cell stack 1.

[0021] The anode off-gas line Ld is a pipeline connecting the anode of each cell stack 1 and the burner 3. More specifically, the anode off-gas line Ld includes, in order from the upstream side, eight pipelines (the branch pipes of the first collection manifold Mc) connecting the anode of each cell stack 1 and the inlets of the first collection manifold Mc, the first collection manifold Mc, and a pipeline (hereinafter referred to as "pipeline Ld1") connecting the outlet of the first collection manifold Mc and the burner 3. In the middle of the pipeline Ld1, in order from the upstream side, a second bellows expansion joint B2, an anode off-gas cooler 6, an anode off-gas condenser 7, and a gas-liquid separation section Sa are arranged.

[0022] The cathode air line Le is a pipeline connecting the air inlet E3 and the cathode of each cell stack 1. More specifically, the cathode air line Le includes, in order from the upstream side, a pipeline (hereinafter referred to as "pipeline Le1") connecting the air inlet E3 and the inlet of the second distribution manifold Mb, the second distribution manifold Mb, and eight pipelines (the branch pipes of the second distribution manifold Mb) connecting the outlets of the second distribution manifold Mb and the cathode of each cell stack 1.

[0023] In the middle of the pipeline Le1, in order from the upstream side, a first air blower 11, an anode off-gas cooler 6, an air preheater 5, and a third bellows expansion joint B3 are arranged. The first air blower 11 is a device that pressurizes the air Aa taken in from the air inlet E3 and sends it to the downstream side of the cathode air line Le, and is typically driven during the power generation operation of the power generation unit 100. Further, in the pipeline Le1, a bypass path Le2 bypassing the anode off-gas cooler 6 and the air preheater 5 is provided so as to connect the midpoint between the air inlet E3 and the anode off-gas cooler 6 and the midpoint between the air preheater 5 and the third bellows expansion joint B3.

[0024] The cathode off-gas line Lf is a pipeline connecting the cathode of each cell stack 1 and the burner 3. More specifically, the cathode off-gas line Lf includes, in order from the upstream side, eight pipelines (the branch pipes of the second collection manifold Md) connecting the cathode of each cell stack 1 and the inlets of the second collection manifold Md, the second collection manifold Md, and a pipeline connecting the outlet of the second collection manifold Md and the burner 3 (hereinafter referred to as "pipeline Lf1").

[0025] The combustion gas line Lg is a pipeline connecting the burner 3 and the gas outlet E6. More specifically, the combustion gas line Lg includes, in order from the upstream side, a heat radiation cylinder Za, a pipeline connecting the heat radiation cylinder Za and the combustion gas pipe Zb, the combustion gas pipe Zb, and a pipeline connecting the combustion gas pipe Zb and the gas outlet E6 (hereinafter referred to as "pipeline Lg1"). In the middle of the pipeline Lg1, in order from the upstream side, a fourth bellows expansion joint B4, an air preheater 5, a CO oxidizer 8, and an evaporator 4 are arranged.

[0026] The burner cooling air line Lh is a pipeline connecting the pipeline Le1 and the starting air line Lj, and a flow rate adjusting means (such as an orifice) (not shown) is provided in this pipeline. More specifically, the burner cooling air line Lh branches at the midpoint of the pipeline Le1 connecting the first air blower 11 and the anode off-gas cooler 6 and merges into the starting air line Lj on the downstream side of the second air blower 14. It is configured such that a minute flow rate of air Ab flows toward the burner 3 when the first air blower 11 is driven.

[0027] The cooling air line Lk is a pipeline connecting the air intake E5 and a predetermined location of the pipeline Lg1 (a location between the evaporator 4 and the gas outlet E6), and in this pipeline, a third air blower 15 and a cooling pipe Zc are arranged in order from the upstream side. The third air blower 15 is a device that pressurizes the cooling air Ad taken in from the air intake E5 and sends it to the downstream side of the cooling air line Lk.

[0028] The reformed water line Li is a pipeline connecting the condensate recovery tank 9 and the evaporator 4, and a water pump 12 is arranged in this pipeline. The water pump 12 is a device that sends the condensate Wb stored in the condensate recovery tank 9 as reformed water Wa to the downstream side of the reformed water line Li.

[0029] The starting air line Lj is a pipeline connecting the air inlet E4 and the pipeline Lf1, and a second air blower 14 is arranged in this pipeline. The second air blower 14 is a device that boosts the air Ac taken in from the air inlet E4 and sends it to the downstream side of the starting air line Lj, and is typically driven during the startup operation of the power generation unit 100.

[0030] The condensate recovery line Lw is a pipeline connecting the gas-liquid separation part Sa arranged in the middle of the pipeline Ld1 and the condensate recovery tank 9. The gas-liquid separation part Sa is a member that separates the condensate Wb generated in the anode off-gas condenser 7 from the anode off-gas Gd, and the separated condensate Wb flows down in the condensate recovery line Lw. The tip of the condensate recovery line Lw is opened to the gas phase part without being immersed in the aqueous phase part of the condensate recovery tank 9 so that the condensation amount does not increase or decrease due to the influence of the water temperature of the stored condensate Wb. Note that the tip of the condensate recovery line Lw is not immersed in the aqueous phase part in order not to change the flow rate of the anode off-gas Gd sent to the burner 3. In particular, when the anode off-gas Gd after separating the condensate Wb is recycled to the primary side of the cell stack or used for power generation in the subsequent cell stack, this configuration is effective. For the gas-liquid separation part Sa, for example, a T-shaped pipe with a straight pipe part arranged horizontally and a branch pipe part arranged downward is used. Also, a small-capacity cylindrical container erected vertically can be used as the gas-liquid separation part Sa.

[0031] The cell stack 1 is a power generator composed of a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC). The solid oxide fuel cell is a high-temperature operating fuel cell in which the solid electrolyte, anode, and cathode constituting the power generation cell are all ceramics. A power generation unit in which a predetermined number of power generation cells are integrated via a metal interconnect material (also referred to as a separator material) is called a cell stack. The battery output of the cell stack 1 is supplied after being adjusted by the power conditioner 16.

[0032] The reformer 2 reforms the raw fuel gas Ga using steam to generate a reformed gas Gc and sends it to the subsequent stage. The reformer 2 has a catalyst for steam reforming, reacts methane contained in the raw fuel gas Ga with steam, and generates a reformed gas Gc containing carbon monoxide and hydrogen. Although steam reforming is an endothermic reaction, the reformer 2 can stably generate the reformed gas Gc by heat supply from the burner 3.

[0033] The burner 3 burns the inflowing gas to generate heat and discharges the combustion gas Gg generated by combustion to the combustion gas line Lg. The evaporator 4 is a device that indirectly heat-exchanges the reforming water Wa and the combustion gas Gg (heat source fluid). By heat-exchanging with the combustion gas Gg, the evaporator 4 evaporates the reforming water Wa and at the same time heats the raw fuel gas Ga.

[0034] Both the air preheater 5 and the anode off-gas cooler 6 are heat exchangers that indirectly heat-exchange a low-temperature fluid and a high-temperature fluid. The air preheater 5 serves to preheat the air Aa in the cathode air line Le by heat-exchanging with the combustion gas Gg, and the anode off-gas cooler 6 serves to cool the anode off-gas Gd by heat-exchanging with the air Aa in the cathode air line Le.

[0035] The anode off-gas condenser 7 uses the fan 7a to cool the anode off-gas Gd and condenses the water vapor contained in the anode off-gas Gd. Note that the anode off-gas condenser 7 of this embodiment is an air-cooled heat exchanger, but instead, a water-cooled heat exchanger may be adopted, and thus it may be a cogeneration type power generation unit in which heat recovery is performed.

[0036] The CO oxidizer 8 is a device that brings harmful carbon monoxide contained in the combustion gas Gg into contact with a catalyst to convert it into harmless carbon dioxide. The CO oxidizer 8 does not operate when the oxidation reaction in the burner 3 is complete, and operates only when the oxidation reaction in the burner 3 is incomplete.

[0037] The condensate recovery tank 9 serves to recover the condensate Wb discharged from the gas-liquid separation section Sa and make it reusable as reformed water Wa. In the condensate recovery tank 9, a water level detector Sb and a drain valve Sc are provided to adjust the water level of the stored reformed water Wa within a predetermined range. When the upper limit water level is detected by the water level detector Sb, the drain valve Sc is opened, while when the lower limit water level is detected by the water level detector Sb, the drain valve Sc is closed. In this way, the condensate recovery tank 9 is ensured to have the required amount of reformed water Wa. In order to prevent the anode off-gas Gd from leaking to the outside during the drainage operation of the reformed water Wa, the drainage position by the drain valve Sc is set near the bottom of the condensate recovery tank 9.

[0038] Further, as shown by the dashed-line frame in FIG. 1, each cell stack 1, reformer 2, burner 3, each manifold Ma to Md, heat radiation cylinder Za, combustion gas pipe Zb, and cooling pipe Zc are arranged in the first region R1. The first region R1 is maintained at a temperature exceeding 600° C. during the power generation operation of the power generation unit 100, and independently maintains the heat balance of heat absorption and heat generation. On the other hand, the evaporator 4, air preheater 5, anode off-gas cooler 6, and CO oxidizer 8 are arranged in the second region R2. The second region R2 is maintained at a temperature lower than that of the first region R1 and higher than room temperature during the power generation operation of the power generation unit 100. The first region R1 and the second region R2 are each surrounded by a heat insulation box, and the power generation module 20 is formed by integrating the two heat insulation boxes. The anode off-gas condenser 7, condenser fan 7a, condensed water recovery tank 9, each blower 10, 11, 13, 14, 15, water pump 12, power conditioner 16, and local controller 17 are arranged outside the power generation module 20 (room temperature region). Note that each of the above-described bellows expansion pipe joints B1 to B4 is used to absorb the expansion and contraction of the piping caused by the temperature change between the cold state and the operation state.

[0039] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the power conditioner 16 according to the present embodiment, and shows the internal configuration of the power conditioner 16 and the connection state to peripheral devices. The power generation module 20 is configured to include elements such as the cell stack 1 as described above. Further, the auxiliary machine 30 for operating the power generation module 20 includes components such as the raw fuel blowers 10, 13, air blowers 11, 14, 15, water pump 12, and the fan 7a of the anode off-gas condenser 7.

[0040] The power conditioner 16 converts the generated power of the power generation module 20 into output power corresponding to the AC power of the commercial power supply system 500. The power conditioner 16 includes DC / DC converters 16a, 16b, a smoothing capacitor 16c, a grid-connected inverter 16d, switches 16e, 16f, and control circuits 16g, 16h.

[0041] The DC / DC converter 16a boosts the DC power from the power generation module 20 (boost circuit). The smoothing capacitor 16c smooths the output power of the DC / DC converter 16a. The grid-connected inverter 16d converts the output power of the DC / DC converter 16a into AC power equivalent to that of the commercial power grid.

[0042] The output side of the grid-connected inverter 16d is electrically connected to, for example, a distribution board 610 for receiving commercial power installed in a building. The grid-connected inverter 16d and the distribution board 610 can be switched between a parallel state and a disconnected state via a switch 16e. The commercial power grid 500 and the power demand equipment 600 are electrically connected to the distribution board 610. The power demand equipment 600 includes a plurality of sub-distribution boards, and load devices such as lighting fixtures, power devices, or electrical outlets used in the building are electrically connected to each sub-distribution board.

[0043] Also, the grid-connected inverter 16d is electrically connected to the self-powered outlet 300. The grid-connected inverter 16d and the self-powered outlet 300 can be switched between a connected state and a disconnected state via a switch 16f. The self-powered outlet 300 is composed of a plurality of outlets into which the power plugs of various power-consuming devices can be inserted.

[0044] The DC / DC converter 16b and the control circuit 16g function as a drive power supply unit that supplies drive power to the auxiliary machine 30. The DC / DC converter 16b adjusts the DC voltage boosted by the DC / DC converter 16a to a DC voltage suitable for driving the auxiliary machine 30. The control circuit 16g supplies the DC voltage adjusted by the DC / DC converter 16b to the auxiliary machines 30 and drives the auxiliary machine 30 appropriately. Note that the above-mentioned auxiliary machine 30 is driven using commercial power during the startup operation and shutdown operation of the power generation unit 100, and is driven using the generated power during the power generation operation of the power generation unit 100.

[0045] The DC / DC converter 16a and the control circuit 16h function as an operating power supply unit that supplies operating power to the load module 40. The load module 40 includes an electric heater 41 and a radiator fan 42. In the self-operating mode of the power generation unit 100, the electric heater 41 generates heat to consume the surplus generated power of the cell stack 1, and the radiator fan 42 sends an air flow to the electric heater 41 to promote heat dissipation. Note that the load module 40 is disposed, for example, inside or outside the housing of the power generation unit 100.

[0046] The local controller 17 controls the operation of the power generation unit 100 according to a control program created and stored in advance. The local controller 17 is provided with a communication unit 17a that communicates with the outside of the power generation unit 100. Also, a current sensor 200, which will be described later, is connected to the local controller 17. Details of the local controller 17 will be described later as needed.

[0047] 1.2 Outline of the operation of the power generation unit Next, an outline of the operation of the power generation unit 100 will be described with reference to FIG. 1. The raw fuel gas Ga supplied into the mixed gas line Lb from the fuel inlet E2 is sent to the subsequent stage by the action of the first raw fuel blower 10. In parallel with the supply of the raw fuel gas Ga, the reformed water Wa supplied into the reformed water line Li from the condensate recovery tank 9 has its water volume adjusted by the water pump 12 and flows into the mixed gas line Lb.

[0048] The reformed water Wa flows into the evaporator 4 together with the raw fuel gas Ga in the mixed gas line Lb, and is heated by heat exchange in the evaporator 4 to become water vapor (superheated steam). The water vapor is mixed with the heated raw fuel gas Ga and flows into the reformer 2 as the mixed gas Gb.

[0049] The reformer 2 reforms the raw fuel gas Ga using the water vapor in the mixed gas Gb, generates a reformed gas Gc, and sends it to the subsequent stage. The reformed gas Gc sent out from the reformer 2 is distributed to the anodes of the respective cell stacks 1 through the anode fuel line Lc.

[0050] On the other hand, in parallel with the supply of the above-described raw fuel gas Ga, air Aa is supplied into the cathode air line Le from the air inlet E3. The air Aa in the cathode air line Le is sent to the downstream side by the action of the first air blower 11. This air Aa is heated by heat exchange in the anode off-gas cooler 6 and further heated by heat exchange in the air preheater 5, and then distributed to the cathodes of the respective cell stacks 1. Note that, for temperature adjustment of the air Aa, etc., it is also possible to allow a part of the air Aa, i.e., air Aa1, to flow into the cathodes of the respective cell stacks 1 via the bypass path Le2.

[0051] Furthermore, in synchronization with the supply of the air Aa to the cathode, air Ab is supplied into the burner cooling air line Lh. The air Ab in the burner cooling air line Lh is sent to the burner 3 by the action of the first air blower 11. This air Ab acts as a coolant for reducing the combustion temperature of the burner 3.

[0052] Each cell stack 1 generates electricity using the reformed gas Gc flowing into the anode and the air Aa flowing into the cathode. When current sweeping is executed by the power conditioner 16 in a state where the reformed gas Gc and the air Aa are supplied to the cell stack 1, power generation (electrochemical reaction of the reformed gas and oxygen) of the cell stack 1 is started. During the power generation operation of the cell stack 1, the anode off-gas Gd is discharged from the anode to the anode off-gas line Ld, and the cathode off-gas Ge is discharged from the cathode to the cathode off-gas line Lf. The anode off-gas Gd contains the reformed gas that was unreacted at the anode, and the cathode off-gas Ge contains the oxygen that was unreacted at the cathode.

[0053] The anode off-gas Gd discharged from each cell stack 1 to the anode off-gas line Ld is collected in the first collection manifold Mc, then cooled by heat exchange in the anode off-gas cooler 6, and flows into the anode off-gas condenser 7. In the anode off-gas condenser 7, the anode off-gas Gd is cooled to below the dew point temperature, and the water vapor contained in the anode off-gas Gd condenses.

[0054] The anode off-gas Gd that has passed through the anode off-gas condenser 7 is sent to the gas-liquid separation section Sa for gas-liquid separation, and the condensed water Wb is recovered in the condensed water recovery tank 9. The condensed water Wb recovered in the condensed water recovery tank 9 is reused as the reformed water Wa as described above. Note that the uncondensed portion in the anode off-gas Gd (the anode off-gas Gd after gas-liquid separation) is sent to the burner 3.

[0055] The cathode off-gas Ge discharged from each cell stack 1 to the cathode off-gas line Lf is collected in the second collection manifold Md, and then mixed with the air Ab flowing in through the burner cooling air line Lh in the pipeline Lf1 and sent to the burner 3. In addition, to the burner 3, according to the operating state of the power generation unit 100, the raw fuel gas Gf supplied from the fuel inlet E1 is sent through the raw fuel line La, and the air Ac supplied from the air inlet E4 is sent through the starting air line Lj.

[0056] The burner 3 has the first burner gas Gx which is the raw fuel gas Gf and / or the anode off-gas Gd, and the second burner gas Gy which is the air Ac and / or the cathode off-gas Ge flowing in, and burns these to generate heat. That is, the first burner gas Gx is a mixed gas of the raw fuel gas Gf and the anode off-gas Gd, or in a state of either the raw fuel gas Gf or the anode off-gas Gd, and which state it becomes can change depending on the operating state of the power generation unit 100 and the like. Also, the second burner gas Gy is a mixed gas of the air Ac and the cathode off-gas Ge, or in a state of either the air Ac or the cathode off-gas Ge, and which state it becomes can change depending on the operating state of the power generation unit and the like. That is, according to the startup operation, power generation operation (full load operation or partial load operation), shutdown operation, etc. of the power generation unit 100, the supply gas to the burner 3 changes its state as appropriate.

[0057] Note that the raw fuel gas Gf is a type of hydrocarbon-containing gas. On the other hand, the air Ac is a type of oxidant-containing gas. During the combustion operation of the burner 3, air Ab is continuously supplied from the burner cooling air line Lh, and the combustion temperature is adjusted.

[0058] The combustion gas Gg generated by the combustion in the burner 3 is sent to the combustion gas line Lg, passes through the heat radiation cylinder Za, the combustion gas pipe Zb, the air preheater 5, the CO oxidizer 8, and the evaporator 4 in sequence, and is discharged from the gas outlet E6 to the outside of the power generation module 20. The heat radiation cylinder Za and the combustion gas pipe Zb are arranged so that the reformer 2 can be effectively heated using the combustion gas Gg. Also, the combustion gas Gg in the combustion gas line Lg is utilized for heat exchange when passing through the air preheater 5 and the evaporator 4, and when carbon monoxide is contained, the carbon monoxide is converted to carbon dioxide when passing through the CO oxidizer 8.

[0059] Also, the cooling air Ad supplied from the air inlet E5 to the cooling air line Lk plays a role in cooling the inside of the power generation module 20 when passing through the cooling pipe Zc. As will be described later, the cooling pipe Zc is installed in the vicinity of the cell stack 1, and the cell stack 1 can be effectively cooled by the cooling air Ad. And the cooling air Ad finally passes through the collecting pipe Lk1 and is discharged from the gas outlet E6 to the outside of the power generation module 20 together with the combustion gas Gg.

[0060] Also, in the power generation unit 100, the amount of heat (temperature) inside the power generation module 20 is controlled by adjusting the flow rate of the cooling air Ad introduced into the cooling pipe Zc. As an example, when the discharge temperature of the cathode off-gas Ge flowing out from the cell stack 1 exceeds the upper limit temperature, the local controller 17 drives the third air blower 15, and controls the rotation speed of the third air blower 15 so that the discharge temperature of the cathode off-gas Ge becomes the target temperature (a temperature lower than the upper limit temperature by a predetermined temperature). The greater the rotation speed of the third air blower 15 increases, the greater the flow rate of the cooling air Ad introduced into the cooling pipe Zc increases. Also, when the rotation speed below the lower limit value continues for a predetermined time, the local controller 17 stops the third air blower 15.

[0061] Note that the cooling pipe Zc installed near the cell stack 1 can also be used to heat up the cell stack 1 during the startup operation of the power generation unit 100. Specifically, in the startup operation of the power generation unit 100, first, the second raw fuel blower 13 and the second air blower 14 are driven to burn the burner 3. The combustion gas Gg generated by this combustion flows through the heat radiation cylinder Za and the combustion gas pipe Zb, and heats up the cold reformer 2 from the outside by radiative heat transfer to increase its temperature. Further, the combustion gas Gg becomes the heat source of the evaporator 4 and generates water vapor from the reforming water Wa. This water vapor flows through the cold reformer 2 and the cell stack 1 in sequence, and heats up these devices from the inside by heat conduction to increase their temperature. If there is residual heat in the combustion gas Gg discharged from the evaporator 4, the combustion gas Gg is allowed to flow from the pipeline Lg1 to the collecting pipe Lk1. As a result, the combustion gas Gg flows through the cooling pipe Zc, so that the cold cell stack 1 can be heated from the outside by radiative heat transfer to increase its temperature.

[0062] In the power generation operation of the power generation unit 100, "thermal self-sufficiency" means balancing the heat balance between the heat generation due to the electrochemical reaction of the reformed gas Gc and oxygen in the cell stack 1, the heat generation due to the combustion reaction of the anode off-gas Gd and the cathode off-gas Ge in the burner 3, and the heat absorption due to the steam reforming reaction of the raw fuel gas Ga and water vapor (reforming water Wa) in the reformer 2. Also, "water self-sufficiency" means recovering the water (reforming water Wa) generated by the electrochemical reaction of the reformed gas Gc and oxygen and repeatedly using it in the steam reforming reaction.

[0063] In the power generation operation of the power generation unit 100, the output power of the grid-connected inverter 16d is equal to the value obtained by subtracting the total power losses due to the operation of the auxiliary machine 30, the power losses due to the operation of the power conditioner 16, and the power losses due to the operation of the load module 40. The load module 40 operates in the self-powered operation mode described later.

[0064] When the power generation unit 100 is operated at full load with the rated output power, the local controller 17 sets the sweep current value for the cell stack 1 to the rated current value and supplies an amount of raw fuel gas Ga corresponding thereto. When the power generation unit 100 is operated at a partial load below the rated output power and equal to or higher than the minimum output power, the local controller 17 sets the sweep current value for the cell stack 1 to a range that is less than the rated current value and equal to or higher than the lower limit current value, and supplies an amount of raw fuel gas Ga corresponding thereto. When the power generation unit 100 is put on standby with zero output power, the local controller 17 sets the sweep current value for the cell stack 1 to the value corresponding to the operating power of the auxiliary machine 30, and keeps the power generation module 20 warm while supplying the minimum amount of raw fuel gas Ga. Note that the state in which the power generation unit 100 is put on standby with zero output power is referred to as "hot standby".

[0065] The power generation operation of the power generation unit 100 includes an interconnected operation mode and an independent operation mode. In the interconnected operation mode, as shown in FIG. 2, the switch 16e is controlled to be in the on state and the switch 16f is controlled to be in the off state. Thereby, the power generation unit 100 is operated in parallel with the commercial power supply system 500. In the independent operation mode, contrary to FIG. 2, the switch 16e is controlled to be in the off state and the switch 16f is controlled to be in the on state. Thereby, the power generation unit 100 is operated in a disconnected state from the commercial power supply system 500.

[0066] The local controller 17 constantly monitors the presence or absence of a power outage in the commercial power supply system 500, and when a power outage is detected, shifts the power generation unit 100 from the interconnected operation mode to the independent operation mode. In the independent operation mode, when an electrical device is connected to the independent outlet 300, it is possible to supply the output power of the system interconnection inverter 16d as the independent operation power to the electrical device. When the commercial power supply system 500 resumes power after a power outage, the local controller 17 shifts the power generation unit 100 from the independent operation mode to the interconnected operation mode.

[0067] In the self-driving mode, when the supply amount of the self-driving power exceeds the consumption amount, the power generation unit 100 causes the load module 40 to consume the surplus of the self-driving power. The adjustment of the power consumption amount of the load module 40 can be realized by adjusting the calorific value of the electric heater 41 (for example, the number of heaters to be energized, or the adjustment of the on / off duty ratio of the energization).

[0068] 2.1 Configuration overview of the power supply system Next, the configuration overview of the power supply system according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the power supply system according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, the power supply system (fuel cell system) 1000 includes a plurality of power generation units 100 operated in parallel (system connection mode) with respect to the commercial power supply system 500, and a system controller 18 that comprehensively controls the control states of each machine. The power supply system 1000 supplies the total output power obtained by adding up the output powers of each power generation unit 100 to the power demand facility 600.

[0069] In the present embodiment, the power supply system 1000 includes a first power generation unit 101, a second power generation unit 102, and a third power generation unit 103. Each of the power generation units 101 to 103 has the same rated output power. For example, if the rated output power of each is 6 kW, the power supply system 1000 can supply a total output power of up to 18 kW.

[0070] <Number of installation platforms of the power generation unit> The number of power generation units 100 installed, N, is determined so as not to generate reverse power flow in a state where all the power generation units 100 are operating at their rated output power (i.e., a state where the power supply system 1000 is operating at the maximum power that can be supplied). Specifically, for the number of units installed N, assuming the rated output power of each power generation unit 100 is Qr [W], the reference purchase power Qs [W] that is preset to be constantly purchased from the commercial power supply system 500, and the minimum power demand D [W] during a predetermined period in the power demand facility 600, when a natural number n is obtained by rounding down the decimal part of the value obtained by the calculation (D - Qs) / Qr, it is determined to satisfy the following formula (1). 2 ≤ N ≤ n …(1)

[0071] For example, if the rated output power Qr = 6 kW, the reference purchase power Qs = 2 kW, and the minimum power demand D = 22 kW, then n = 3 is calculated. Therefore, according to formula (1), the number of units installed N is estimated to be 2 to 3 units. Here, in order to take advantage of the merit of self-generation in minimizing the purchase power cost, it is desirable to select the maximum number of units n, which is 3 units, within the estimated range of the number of units installed N.

[0072] <Operation as an output adjuster> As described above, the power generation unit 100 can be operated at full load at the rated output power, at partial load below the rated output power and above the minimum output power, or in hot standby with the output power zero. That is, each of the power generation units 101 to 103 can be operated as an output adjuster that operates within a range below the rated output power and above the minimum output power. Note that since the power generation module 20 in this embodiment includes an SOFC cell stack, the minimum output power in partial load operation is set based on the minimum fuel supply amount that can maintain the thermal self-sufficiency of the power generation module 20 and the minimum fuel utilization rate that can maintain the water self-sufficiency of the power generation module 20.

[0073] The maximum output power of the power generation unit 100 in the grid-connected operation mode is equivalent to the rated output power (6 kW). Also, the minimum output power of the power generation unit 100 in the grid-connected operation mode is set to the lower limit value at which, in addition to achieving both heat self-sufficiency and water self-sufficiency, there is no decrease in the power generation efficiency during partial load operation compared to that during full load operation. In this case, the minimum output power is, for example, equivalent to 50% (3 kW) of the rated output power (6 kW). If output adjustment below the minimum output power is required, the unit will shift to hot standby.

[0074] The output adjuster adjusts the output power from the power conditioner 16 by performing an operation to increase or decrease the output current from the grid-connected inverter 16d. The local controller 17 increases the sweep current value for the cell stack 1 in parallel with the increase in the output current and increases the supply amount of the raw fuel gas Ga. Also, the local controller 17 decreases the sweep current value for the cell stack 1 in parallel with the decrease in the output current and decreases the supply amount of the raw fuel gas Ga. Thereby, the power generation power of the power generation module 20 increases or decreases as the output current increases or decreases.

[0075] <Local Controller> Each of the local controllers 17 installed in the power generation units 101 to 103 is constituted by a programmable logic controller (PLC). The PLC has an arithmetic unit, a storage unit, an input unit, an output unit, and a power supply unit, and executes required arithmetic operations and sequence control using a processing program created and stored in advance. Note that a current sensor 200, which will be described later, is connected to the input unit of the PLC.

[0076] Each of the local controllers 17 is configured to be able to execute output adjustment control for adjusting the output power of the power conditioner 16 within a range not exceeding the rated output power and not less than the minimum output power based on information regarding the purchased power from the commercial power supply system 500. The output adjustment control includes heteronomous output adjustment control for heteronomously adjusting the output power and autonomous output adjustment control for autonomously adjusting the output power. The details of the heteronomous output adjustment control and the autonomous output adjustment control will be described later.

[0077] <System controller> Each of the local controllers 17 mounted on the respective power generation units 101 to 103 has a system control unit that can function as a system controller 18. This system control unit is a functional block incorporated in the PLC.

[0078] In the present embodiment, the respective power generation units 101 to 103 are classified into one master unit and the remaining slave units. Specifically, the first power generation unit 101 is the master unit, and the second power generation unit 102 and the third power generation unit 103 are the slave units.

[0079] The system control unit in the first power generation unit 101 designated as the master unit is activated as the system controller 18. On the other hand, each of the system control units in the second power generation unit 102 and the third power generation unit 103 designated as the slave units is deactivated as the system controller 18. Thereby, the system controller 18 of the master unit is configured to comprehensively control the control states of its own unit and the slave units.

[0080] <Information communication function> The system controller 18 of the master unit and the local controller 17 of the master unit can exchange information with each other inside the PLC. Also, the system controller 18 of the master unit and the local controllers 17 of the slave units can communicate with each other via the communication unit 17a attached to the PLC.

[0081] Each of the local controllers 17 continuously transmits information regarding the control state and output state of its own device (for example, the sweep current value for the cell stack 1, the output power of the grid-connected inverter 16d, etc.) to the system controller 18. The system controller 18 uses this information received from each of the local controllers 17 to coordinate the heteronomous output adjustment control and autonomous output adjustment control of the output adjuster.

[0082] <Current sensor> The power supply system 1000 includes a current sensor 200 that detects the forward power flow current flowing from the commercial power supply system 500 to the power demand facility 600. The current sensor 200 consists of a first current sensor 201 associated with the first power generation unit 101 which is the master unit, a second current sensor 202 associated with the second power generation unit 101 which is a slave unit, and a third current sensor 203 associated with the third power generation unit 103 which is a slave unit. The detection units of each of the current sensors 201 to 203 are disposed on the power transmission cable from the commercial power supply system 500 to the power demand facility 600, on the power transmission cable upstream of the connection points P1 to P3 of the output cables of each of the power generation units 101 to 103.

[0083] The detection information (current value information) of each of the current sensors 201 to 204 is input into the local controllers 17 of the corresponding power generation units 101 to 104. In the master unit, the detection information is shared between the local controller 17 and the system controller 18.

[0084] 2.2 Outline of Control of Power Supply System The power supply system 1000 causes each of the power generation units 101 to 103 to execute output adjustment control using the setting information regarding the reference purchased power. Each of the system controller 18 and the local controllers 17 calculates in real time a monitored value of the actual purchased power Qm from the commercial power supply system 500 based on the detection information (current value information) input from the corresponding current sensor 201 and the AC voltage value (for example, 100V) of the commercial power supply system 500. Hereinafter, the heteronomous output adjustment control and autonomous output adjustment control executed by each of the local controllers 17 will be briefly described.

[0085] 〔1a〕When the system controller 18 determines that the actual purchased power Qm is lower than the first reference purchased power Q1 (e.g., 2 kW), resulting in a relatively slow demand decrease below the minimum required power D, it causes each of the local controllers 17 to execute the first output reduction control to increase the actual purchased power Qm up to the second reference purchased power Q2 (e.g., 8 kW). The first output reduction control belongs to the heteronomous output adjustment control that follows the request from the system controller 18. The local controller 17 reduces the output current from the system connection inverter 16d by the specified output current reduction width.

[0086] 〔1b〕When the system controller 18 determines that the actual purchased power Qm is higher than the second reference purchased power Q2 (e.g., 8 kW), resulting in a demand increase, it causes each of the local controllers 17 to execute the output increase control to reduce the actual purchased power Qm within the range from the first reference purchased power Q1 to the second reference purchased power Q2 (e.g., 7.5 kW). The output increase control belongs to the heteronomous output adjustment control that follows the request from the system controller 18. The local controller 17 increases the output current from the system connection inverter 16d by the specified output current increase width.

[0087] 〔2a〕When each of the local controllers 17 determines that the actual purchased power Qm is lower than the third reference purchased power Q3 (e.g., 0.5 kW), resulting in a relatively rapid demand decrease below the minimum required power D, it executes the second output reduction control to restore the actual purchased power Qm up to the third reference purchased power Q3. The second output reduction control belongs to the autonomous output adjustment control that does not depend on the request from the system controller 18. The local controller 17 gradually reduces the output current from the system connection inverter 16d in steps by a predetermined adjustment width.

[0088] After the completion of the second output reduction control, the system controller 18 causes each of the local controllers 17 to execute the third output reduction control to increase the actual purchased power Qm to the second reference purchased power Q2 (for example, 8 kW). The third output reduction control belongs to the heteronomous output adjustment control that follows the request from the system controller 18, and the local controller 17 reduces the output current from the system connection inverter 16d by the specified output current reduction width.

[0089] 3.1 Configuration Outline of Power Generation Unit Aggregate Next, the configuration outline of the power generation unit aggregate according to this embodiment will be described. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the power generation unit aggregate of this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4, the power generation unit aggregate 2000 is configured by aggregating a plurality of N power generation units 100. In this embodiment, it is an aggregate of the above-described first power generation unit 101, second power generation unit 102, and third power generation unit 103. Further, the power generation unit aggregate 2000 includes a foundation bed 70 and a connection casing 80 in addition to the plurality of N (three) power generation units 100.

[0090] The three power generation units 101 to 103 are arranged side by side in a spaced-apart state in the left-right direction. The spacing distance is, for example, in the range of 10 to 50 cm. Note that the power generation units 100 may be arranged side by side in a state of being in close contact in the left-right direction.

[0091] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the power generation unit 100. As shown in FIG. 5, as a configuration on the product, the power generation unit 100 includes a unit base 60 on which the above-described power generation module 20 and auxiliary machine 30 are placed, and a box-shaped housing 62 installed on the unit base 60 so as to surround these power generation module 20 and auxiliary machine 30.

[0092] Inside the housing 62, the above-described power conditioner 16, local controller 17, load module 40, and self-standing outlet 300 are further arranged. Note that the self-standing outlet 300 may be arranged outside the housing 62 via an electric cable.

[0093] Figures 6 and 7 are perspective views showing the appearance of the base bed, and Figure 8 is a perspective view showing the disassembled state of the base bed. The base bed 70 is a pedestal fixed to the installation floor surface (floor slab), and as shown in Figure 6, the power generation unit 100 is placed on the base bed 70. The base bed 70 is a replacement for a conventional concrete foundation and is a structure including a plurality of supports 72 and a plurality of beam bodies 74.

[0094] Each of the supports 72 extends in the front-rear direction and is arranged side by side at intervals in the left-right direction. Each of the supports 72 can support the left-right direction end portions on the bottom surface of each unit base 60 of the power generation unit 100. The support 72 includes two first supports 72a and (N - 1) second supports 72b. For example, square pipes with a rectangular cross-section are used for the first support 72a and the second support 72b.

[0095] One of the first supports 72a supports the bottom surface end portion on the left end side of the unit base 60 of the power generation unit 100 located at the leftmost end. The other of the first supports 72a supports the bottom surface end portion on the right end side of the unit base 60 of the power generation unit located at the rightmost end. The first support 72a and the unit base 60 of the power generation unit 100 are coupled by being bolted, for example, at the fastening positions 77 at both end portions in the front-rear direction.

[0096] Each of the second supports 72b simultaneously supports the bottom surface end portion on the right end side of the unit base 60 of the power generation unit 100 located on the left side and the bottom surface end portion on the left end side of the unit base 60 of the power generation unit 100 located on the right side among the adjacent power generation units 100.

[0097] The second support 72b is wider than the first support 72a in the left-right direction, and supports the bottom end portion on the right end side of the unit base 60 of the power generation unit 100 located on the left side in the left portion with respect to the center line in the front-rear direction, and supports the bottom end portion on the left end side of the unit base 60 of the power generation unit 100 located on the right side in the right portion with respect to the center line. The second support 72b and the unit base 60 of the power generation unit 100 are coupled by being bolted, for example, at the fastening positions 77 at both ends in the front-rear direction.

[0098] Each of the supports 72 has both ends in the front-rear direction cut obliquely, and is fixed to the installation floor surface via anchor bolts 79 (see FIG. 4) at the fastening positions 78 of the bottom plate. By fixing the supports 72 constituting the foundation bed 60 to the installation floor surface, the power generation unit 100 is installed on the installation floor surface. The type of the anchor bolt is not particularly limited, but for example, post-installed anchors (chemical anchors, tightening anchors, driven anchors) are preferably used.

[0099] Here, as shown in FIG. 7, the heavy power generation module 20 is supported at the left and right ends of the unit base 60 via four legs. Auxiliary machines 30 such as blowers are arranged on the unit base 60 in front of the power generation module 20. The unit base 60 has sufficient strength to support the loads of the power generation module 20, the auxiliary machines 30, and other built-in devices.

[0100] Each of the beam bodies 74 connects adjacent supports 72 in the left-right direction. The beam body 74 includes a front beam body 74a and a rear beam body 74b. For example, channel steel is used for the front beam body 74a and the rear beam body 74b.

[0101] The front beam body 74a connects the front end portions of adjacent supports 72 in the left-right direction. The front beam body 74a and the support 72 are connected by being bolted, for example, via an L-shaped connecting member 76.

[0102] The rear side beam body 74b connects the rear ends of adjacent supports 72 in the left - right direction. The rear side beam body 74b and the support 72 are connected by being bolted via, for example, an L - shaped connecting member 76.

[0103] The connecting casing 80 is disposed between adjacent power generation units 100 among the power generation units 100 spaced apart in the left - right direction. Specifically, the connecting casing 80 is disposed between the casings 62 of adjacent power generation units 100, covers the gap between the units, and has the role of enhancing the sense of unity and aesthetic feeling as a single large - scale power generation facility. Also, the connecting casing 80 has the role of preventing foreign objects from entering the gap between the units.

[0104] The connecting casing 80 is selected from a first type and a second type. FIGS. 9 - 12 show the first - type connecting casing 80A, and FIGS. 13 - 15 show the second - type connecting casing 80B. FIGS. 9 and 13 are perspective views showing the appearance of the connecting casing, FIGS. 10 and 14 are perspective views showing the disassembled state of the connecting casing. FIGS. 11 and 15 are partial enlarged views of the upper - corner part of the connecting casing, and FIG. 12 is a partial enlarged view of the lower - end part of the connecting casing common to the first type and the second type. In these drawings, for convenience of explanation, only the first power generation unit 101 and the second power generation unit 102 are illustrated.

[0105] Each of the connecting casings 80A and 80B includes a first casing 81, a second casing 82, and a third casing 83. The first casing 81 extends in the front - rear direction along the top - surface side of the power generation unit 100. The second casing 82 extends in the up - down direction along the front - surface side of the power generation unit 100. The third casing 83 extends in the up - down direction along the rear - surface side of the power generation unit 100.

[0106] In the connection casing 80A, the first casing 81 and the second casing 82 are bolted together using an L-shaped outer connecting member 86 and an L-shaped inner connecting member 87, thereby connecting the ends. Similarly, the first casing 81 and the third casing 83 are bolted together using an L-shaped outer connecting member 86 and an L-shaped inner connecting member 87, thereby connecting the ends. Also, the lower ends of the second casing 82 and the third casing 83 are fixed by being directly bolted to the unit base 60.

[0107] In this way, since the connection casing 80A is composed of the first casing 81, the second casing 82, the third casing 83, and the L-shaped connecting members 86 and 87, it is possible to absorb the error (misalignment) in the installation position of the power generation unit 100.

[0108] A different form of the connection casing 80B is different from the connection casing 80A in that the shapes of the second casing 82 and the third casing 83 are different and it does not include the L-shaped connecting members 86 and 87. Each of the second casing 82 and the third casing 83 has an L-shaped bent shape at its upper end.

[0109] The first casing 81 and the L-shaped second casing 82 are connected by bolting the overlapping portions. Similarly, the second casing 82 and the L-shaped third casing 83 are connected by bolting the overlapping portions. The connection casing 80B has fewer parts and is easier to attach and detach compared to the connection casing 80A.

[0110] 3.2 Installation Procedure of Power Generation Unit Assembly Next, with reference to FIGS. 16 to 22, the installation procedure of the power generation unit assembly 2000 will be described. Here, the installation of the first power generation unit 101 and the third power generation unit 103 located at both ends of the power generation unit assembly 2000 on the foundation bed 70 has been completed, and the procedure for installing the remaining second power generation unit 102 will be described as a representative example. It is assumed that the installation of the first power generation unit 101 and the third power generation unit 103 has been carried out in accordance with the following procedures 1 to 10. In addition, when it is necessary to pull out any of the power generation units 100 forward from the foundation bed 70 for maintenance such as the replacement of the power generation module 20, the following procedures 1 to 10 will be carried out in the reverse order.

[0111] 〔1〕Arrange the first support 72a and the second support 72b on the installation floor surface at a required interval, and fix them to the installation floor surface through anchor bolts at the fastening positions 78 of each support 72a, 72b. For example, refer to FIG. 8. In this state, the front side beam 74a and the rear side beam 74b are not attached.

[0112] 〔2〕Jack up the unit base 60 of the second power generation unit 102 unloaded from the transport truck, and insert the chill rollers 90 into the end parts at the four corners of the unit base 60 respectively. After jacking down the unit base 60, fix the unit base 60 to the floor plate with bolts.

[0113] 〔3〕Pull the chill roller 90 with a handle to move the second power generation unit 102 to the vicinity of the pair of supports 72. Fine-tune the orientation of the second power generation unit 102 so that the front-rear direction of the unit base 60 is parallel to the front-rear direction of the support 72, and the center line in the front-rear direction of the unit base 60 generally coincides with the center line in the front-rear direction between the adjacent supports 72. Refer to FIG. 16.

[0114] 〔4〕Remove the bolts from the floor plate on the rear side of the second power generation unit 102, jack up the unit base 60, and move the rear chill roller 90 to the inside of the unit base 60. Refer to FIG. 17.

[0115] 〔5〕After jacking down the unit base 60, pull the chill roller 90 with a handle and move it along the upper part of the support 72 from the rear side of the second power generation unit 102. Refer to Fig. 18.

[0116] 〔6〕Remove the bolts from the floor plate on the front side of the second power generation unit 102, jack up the unit base 60, and move the front chill roller 90 inside the unit base 60. Refer to Fig. 19.

[0117] 〔7〕After jacking down the unit base 60, further pull the chill roller 90 with a handle and move the entire second power generation unit 102 to a predetermined position of the support 72. Refer to Fig. 20.

[0118] 〔8〕After jacking up the unit base 60 and pulling out the four chill rollers 90, jack down the unit base 60. Align the bolt holes of the unit base 60 with the fastening position 77 of the support 72 using a bar or the like, and bolt and connect the two. Refer to Fig. 21.

[0119] 〔9〕Attach the front side beam body 74a between the front end parts of adjacent supports 72, and bolt and connect the front side beam body 74a and the support 72 through the connecting member 76. Also, attach the rear side beam body 74b between the front end parts of adjacent supports 72, and bolt and connect the rear side beam body 74b and the support 72 through the connecting member 76. Thereby, the foundation bed 70 with the support 72 and the beam body 74 connected is completed. Refer to Fig. 22.

[0120] 〔10〕Place the first connection casing 81 between the top plate sides of the adjacent first power generation unit 101 and the second power generation unit 102, arrange the second casing 81 on the front side, and connect the two. Also, arrange the third casing 83 on the rear side and connect the first connection casing 81 and the third casing 83. Thereby, the installation of the connection casing 80 is completed. Refer to Fig. 4. Similarly, install the connection casing 80 between the first power generation unit 101 and the second power generation unit 102.

[0121] By repeating the above procedures 1 to 10 for the number of power generation units 100 to be installed, the installation of the power generation unit assembly 2000 can be completed in a short period (about half a day to one day). If the number of power generation units 100 to be installed is two or more, the above procedures 1 to 10 are common.

[0122] 4. Other Modification Examples The cell stack 1 constituting the power generation module 20 may be a molten carbonate fuel cell (MCFC) instead of a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC). The MCFC is a high-temperature operating fuel cell similar to the SOFC and has high power generation efficiency.

[0123] The power generation module 20 using a fuel cell is not limited to the type that generates power with a single-stage cell stack 1, and may be of the type that generates power with a two-stage or more cell stack 1. Specifically, water vapor is removed from the anode off-gas discharged from the previous-stage cell stack to generate a regenerated gas, and this regenerated gas is supplied to the anode of the next-stage cell stack. In addition, when generating the regenerated gas, carbon dioxide contained in the anode off-gas may be removed using a separation membrane, an absorbent liquid, or the like. By configuring to generate power with a two-stage or more cell stack, the fuel utilization rate can be significantly increased.

[0124] The power generation module 20 using a fuel cell is not limited to the configuration of supplying reformed gas to the cell stack, and may be configured to supply pure hydrogen gas. Specifically, hydrogen gas supplied from an external hydrogen production site through a transportation infrastructure is introduced into the anode of the cell stack. When using hydrogen gas as the primary fuel, components (reformer 2, evaporator 4, anode off-gas condenser 7, gas-liquid separation section Sa, condensed water recovery tank 9, water pump 12, etc.) required for steam reforming and water self-sufficiency can be omitted.

[0125] The power generation unit 100 is not limited to the type using a fuel cell and can be changed to other types. The power generation unit may be of the type using a solar cell, or may be of the type that rotates a generator using an organic Rankine cycle, a steam turbine, a gas turbine, or a gas engine.

[0126] The system controller 18 may be a functional block incorporated in the local controller 17 (PLC), or may be an independent controller separated from the local controller 17. In this case, each of the local controllers 17 is connected to the system controller 18 via the communication unit 17a.

[0127] A part of the control function executed by the local controller 17 (PLC) can also be configured to be executed by the built-in controller equipped in the power conditioner 16. In this case, the built-in controller is substantially a component of the local controller 17. For example, monitoring of power outage and power restoration, and instructions for transition between the parallel operation mode and the independent operation mode may be control functions executed by the built-in controller.

[0128] According to the power generation unit assembly 2000 of the present embodiment described above, the following effects can be obtained.

[0129] (1) The power generation unit assembly 2000 includes a plurality of N power generation units 100 arranged side by side in a state of being spaced apart or in close contact with each other in the left-right direction, and a foundation bed 70 fixed to the installation floor surface on which the plurality of N power generation units 100 are placed.

[0130] The power generation unit assembly 2000 is configured such that a foundation bed 70 is fixed to the installation floor surface, and a plurality of N power generation units 100 are placed on the foundation bed 70. The foundation bed 70 replaces the conventional concrete foundation, and once it is fixed to the installation floor surface, it is possible to immediately start carrying in and installing the power generation unit 100. The utilization of the foundation bed 70 can eliminate the need for placing a concrete foundation, and since it can be easily assembled at the installation site, the construction period of the installation work can be significantly shortened.

[0131] (2) In the power generation unit assembly 2000 of (1), the foundation bed 70 includes a plurality of support bodies 72 that extend in the front-rear direction and are arranged side by side at intervals in the left-right direction, and can support the left-right direction end portions on the bottom surfaces of each of the plurality of N power generation units 100, and a plurality of beam bodies 74 that connect adjacent support bodies 72 in the left-right direction.

[0132] The foundation bed 70 includes a plurality of support bodies 72 for supporting the unit base 60 of the power generation unit 100 and a plurality of beam bodies 74 that connect adjacent support bodies 72. Since the power generation unit 100 is fixed to the installation floor surface via the support body 72, it has excellent durability against natural disasters such as earthquakes and strong winds and can continue self-generation.

[0133] (3) In the power generation unit assembly 2000 of (2), the plurality of support bodies 72 include two first support bodies 72a that can respectively support the bottom surface end portion on the left end side of the power generation unit 100 located at the leftmost end or the bottom surface end portion on the right end side of the power generation unit 100 located at the rightmost end, and (N - 1) second support bodies 72b that can simultaneously support the bottom surface end portion on the right end side of the power generation unit 100 located on the left side and the bottom surface end portion on the left end side of the power generation unit 100 located on the right side among adjacent power generation units 100. The second support body 72b is wider than the first support body 72a in the left-right direction, supports the bottom surface end portion on the right end side of the power generation unit 100 located on the left side in the left portion with respect to the center line in the front-rear direction, and supports the bottom surface end portion on the left end side of the power generation unit 100 located on the right side in the right portion with respect to the center line.

[0134] The second support 72b has a sufficient width to simultaneously support the bottom end portion of the right end side of the power generation unit 100 located on the left side and the bottom end portion of the left end side of the power generation unit 100 located on the right side. Therefore, for example, when supporting three power generation units 100, four supports 72 may be prepared. If supported by two first supports 72a without using the second support 72b, a total of six supports 72 are required. However, since the number of parts is smaller compared to this, the installation time of the power generation unit 100 can be shortened.

[0135] (4) In the power generation unit assembly 2000 of (2), the plurality of beam bodies 74 include a front beam body 74a that connects the front end portions of adjacent supports 72 in the left - right direction, and a rear beam body 74b that connects the rear end portions of adjacent supports 72 in the left - right direction.

[0136] The beam body 74 that connects adjacent supports 72 has a minimum configuration consisting only of the front beam body 74a and the rear beam body 74b. Since the number of parts of the beam body is small and it is sufficient to maintain the strength of the foundation bed 70, the installation work can be completed promptly. Also, by making the front beam body 74a and the rear beam body 74b detachable, the power generation unit 100 can be pulled out and maintained in the reverse order of the installation procedure.

[0137] (5) In the power generation unit assembly 2000 of (2) or (3), each of the plurality of supports 72 is fixed to the installation floor surface via anchor bolts 79 at the front - rear direction ends.

[0138] The plurality of supports 72 are fixed to the installation floor surface via anchor bolts 79 at at least two locations in the longitudinal direction end portions. Therefore, sufficient seismic resistance can be ensured while the installation work can be completed in a short time.

[0139] (6) In the power generation unit assembly 2000 of (1) to (4), a connecting casing 80 is provided between adjacent power generation units 100 among a plurality of power generation units 100 spaced apart in the left - right direction. Each of the connecting casings 80 includes a first casing 81 extending in the front - rear direction along the top surface side of the power generation unit 100, a second casing 82 extending in the up - down direction along the front side of the power generation unit 100, and a third casing extending in the up - down direction along the rear side of the power generation unit 100.

[0140] The connecting casing 80 is disposed between the casings 62 of adjacent power generation units 100, covering the gap between the units, so that the sense of unity and aesthetic feeling as a single large - scale power generation facility can be enhanced. By changing the color scheme of the casing 62 and the connecting casing 80, it is expected that the design property will also be improved. In addition, by installing the connecting casing 80, it is possible to prevent foreign objects from entering the gap between the units.

[0141] (7) In the power generation unit assembly 2000 of (6), a power generation module 20 operated by an auxiliary machine 30, a unit base 60 on which the power generation module 20 and the auxiliary machine 30 are placed, and a box - shaped casing 62 installed on the unit base 60 so as to surround the power generation module 20 and the auxiliary machine 30 are provided. A plurality of supports 72 support the ends of the unit base 60, and the connecting casing 80 is disposed between adjacent casings 62.

[0142] The power generation module 20, which is a heavy object, and the relatively lightweight auxiliary machine 30 are both placed on the unit base 60 and surrounded by the casing 62. Since the load of the heavy object is received by the unit base 60, sufficient strength can be maintained even during the loading or operation of the power generation module 20, and accidental damage can be prevented.

[0143] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, the configuration of the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. That is, the above embodiments should be considered as illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The technical scope of the present invention is shown not by the description of the above embodiments but by the claims, and it should be understood that all modifications belonging to the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims are included.

[0144] 〔Contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Led by the United Nations〕 The power generation unit and power supply system according to the present disclosure reduce carbon dioxide emissions by improving the primary energy efficiency and can contribute to the achievement of Goal 13 of the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals), "Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts". In addition, the power generation unit and power supply system according to the present disclosure can maintain power supply independently when a power outage occurs due to a natural disaster and can contribute to the achievement of Goal 11 of the SDGs, "Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable".

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0145] 1 Cell stack 2 Reformer 3 Burner 4 Evaporator 5 Air preheater 6 Anode off-gas cooler 7 Anode off-gas condenser 7a Fan 8 CO oxidizer (carbon monoxide oxidizer) 9 Condensate recovery tank 10 First primary fuel blower 11 First air blower 12 Water pump 13 Second primary fuel blower 14 Second air blower 15 Third air blower 16 Power conditioner 16a, 16b DC / DC converter 16c Smoothing capacitor 16d System connection inverter 16e, 16f Switches 16g, 16h Control circuits 17 Local controller 17a Communication unit 18 System controller 20 Power generation module 30 Auxiliary equipment 40 Load module 41 Electric heater 42 Heat dissipation fan 60 Unit base 62 Housing 70 Foundation bed 72 Support 72a First support 72b Second support 74 Beam body 74a Front beam body 74b Rear beam body 76 Connecting member 77, 78 Fastening positions 79 Anchor bolt 80 Connecting casing 81 First casing 82 Second casing 83 Third casing 86 Outer connecting member 87 Inner connecting member 100 Power generation unit 101 First power generation unit 102 Second power generation unit 103 Third power generation unit 200 Current sensor 201 First current sensor 202 Second current sensor 203 Third current sensor 300 Self - supporting socket 500 Commercial power supply system 600 Electric power demand equipment 610 Switchboard 1000 Power supply system 2000 Aggregate of power generation units Aa, Ab, Ac Air Air for Ad cooling B1 First bellows type expansion joint B2 Second bellows type expansion joint B3 Third bellows type expansion joint B4 Fourth bellows type expansion joint E1, E2 Fuel inlets E3, E4, E5 Air inlets E6 Gas outlet Ga, Gf Raw fuel gas Gb Mixed gas Gc Reformed gas Gd Anode off-gas Ge Cathode off-gas Gg Combustion gas La Raw fuel line Lb Mixed gas line Lc Anode fuel line Ld Anode off-gas line Le Cathode air line Lf Cathode off-gas line Lg Combustion gas line Lh Air line for burner cooling Li Reformed water line Lj Air line for startup Lk Cooling air line Lk1 Collection pipe Lw Condensate recovery line Ma First distribution manifold Mb Second distribution manifold Mc First collection manifold Md Second collection manifold R1 First region R2 Second region Sa Gas-liquid separator Sb Water level detector Sc Drain valve Wa Reformed water Wb Condensate Za Heat radiation cylinder Zb Combustion gas pipe Zc Cooling pipe

Claims

1. A plurality of N power generation units arranged side by side in a state of being spaced apart or in close contact with each other in the left - right direction, and a foundation bed fixed to the installation floor surface and on which the plurality of N power generation units are placed. A power generation unit assembly.

2. The foundation bed is a plurality of support members extending in the front - rear direction and arranged side by side in a state of being spaced apart in the left - right direction, capable of supporting the left - right direction end portions of the bottom surfaces of each of the plurality of N power generation units, and a plurality of beam members connecting adjacent support members to each other in the left - right direction. The power generation unit assembly according to Claim 1.

3. The plurality of support members are two first support members capable of supporting the bottom surface end portion on the left - hand side of the left - most power generation unit or the bottom surface end portion on the right - hand side of the right - most power generation unit respectively, and (N - 1) second support members capable of simultaneously supporting the bottom surface end portion on the right - hand side of the power generation unit located on the left side and the bottom surface end portion on the left - hand side of the power generation unit located on the right side among adjacent power generation units. The second support member is wider than the first support member in the left - right direction, supports the bottom surface end portion on the right - hand side of the power generation unit located on the left side at a portion to the left of the center line in the front - rear direction, and supports the bottom surface end portion on the left - hand side of the power generation unit located on the right side at a portion to the right of the center line. The power generation unit assembly according to Claim 2.

4. The plurality of beam members are a front - side beam member connecting the front end portions of adjacent support members to each other in the left - right direction, and a rear - side beam member connecting the rear end portions of adjacent support members to each other in the left - right direction. The power generation unit assembly according to Claim 2.

5. Each of the plurality of support members is fixed to the installation floor surface via anchor bolts at the front - rear direction end portions. The power generation unit assembly according to Claim 2 or 3.

6. A connecting casing is provided between adjacent power generation units among the plurality of power generation units spaced apart in the left - right direction, and each of the connecting casings is a first casing extending in the front - rear direction along the top surface side of the power generation unit, a second casing extending in the up - down direction along the front - side of the power generation unit, and a third casing extending in the up - down direction along the rear - side of the power generation unit. The power generation unit assembly according to any one of Claims 1 to 4.

7. The power generation unit is a power generation module operated by an auxiliary machine, The unit base on which the power generation module and the auxiliary machine are placed, A box-shaped housing installed on the unit base so as to surround the power generation module and the auxiliary machine, The plurality of supports support the end of the unit base, The connection casing is disposed between the adjacent housings The power generation unit assembly according to claim 6.

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