Skid-Mounted Electrochemical Modules for Fast Site Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of electrochemical systems like fuel cell and electrolyzer systems is hindered by high costs and time-consuming processes due to the need for custom concrete pads and trenching, especially in space-constrained areas, and existing solutions that increase system size compromise fault tolerance and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A modular electrochemical system design featuring a skid with a deck and pedestals supporting multiple modules, allowing for quick deployment and installation by transporting the skid to the site and connecting utilities, along with a docking station for easy hook-ups, reduces installation time and costs while maximizing space utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If custom designed concrete pads with trenching are used for installation, then system stability and support are improved, but installation cost and time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into modular components (electrochemical modules, balance of system modules) that can be independently manufactured and assembled. The skid is segmented into a deck and support legs, allowing for standardized production and rapid assembly without custom concrete work.
Solution Approach 2:
The skid is pre-assembled with all necessary support structures, mounting surfaces, and alignment features before delivery to the installation site. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for time-consuming on-site concrete pouring and structural fabrication.
2Power
If monolithic system design with increased capacity is used, then system capacity is improved, but system size and concrete pad requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The electrochemical system is divided into multiple modular units that can be stacked or arranged in arrays on the skid. This segmentation allows capacity scaling without proportionally increasing the footprint, as modules can be vertically or densely horizontally arranged.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from horizontal expansion to vertical stacking of modular components. By utilizing the vertical dimension for module arrangement, the system achieves increased capacity while maintaining a compact horizontal footprint suitable for limited installation spaces.
3Strength
If metal cabinets with powder coat paint are used for hot boxes, then structural strength and protection are improved, but susceptibility to scratching, denting and corrosion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cabinet structure uses composite material construction combining metal framework with corrosion-resistant coatings or alternative materials such as stainless steel components or coated alloys. This composite approach maintains structural strength while significantly improving resistance to scratching, denting, and corrosion.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrochemical system includes fuel cell or electrolyzer modules, and a skid supporting the modules.