Triple-Layer Case for SOEC Vacuum and Heat Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solid oxide electrolysis cell (SOEC) systems face challenges in maintaining a stable vacuum in the heat insulating layer due to gas leakage, which affects the efficiency and temperature control of the electrolysis process.
Innovation Solution
The proposed electrolysis system employs a triple-layered case structure with a heat storage space between the inner and intermediate cases, and a vacuum space between the intermediate and outer cases. This configuration includes a fluid supply flow path for heating and an air lead-out flow path to control the vacuum level, allowing for precise temperature and vacuum management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a vacuum heat insulating layer is sealed in the manufacturing stage, then heat insulation efficiency is improved, but the degree of vacuum decreases over time due to gas leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The heat insulating structure is divided into two separate functional layers: a vacuum space for maintaining vacuum degree and a heat storage space for thermal insulation. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specific function independently, resolving the contradiction between maintaining vacuum and providing heat insulation.
Solution Approach 2:
A heat storage medium is introduced as an intermediary substance in the heat storage space between the inner case and intermediate case. This medium stores and releases heat to maintain thermal insulation efficiency without compromising the vacuum degree in the separate vacuum space.
2Loss of energy
If a vacuum space is created between the intermediate case and outer case, then heat insulation is improved, but the structure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate case serves multiple functions: it forms the boundary of the heat storage space with the inner case, and simultaneously forms the boundary of the vacuum space with the outer case. This multi-functionality reduces overall structural complexity despite adding thermal insulation capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The heat storage space and vacuum space are nested within each other in a concentric arrangement, with the heat storage space inside the intermediate case and the vacuum space outside the intermediate case. This nested configuration maximizes thermal insulation efficiency while minimizing structural complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enables effective control of the vacuum degree and temperature within the system, enhancing the operational efficiency and stability of the SOEC electrolysis process by minimizing gas leakage and optimizing heat utilization.
Implementation Method 1
an intermediate case that encloses the inner case from outside, and an outer case that encloses the intermediate case from outside, wherein a heat storage space is formed between the inner case and the intermediate case, a vacuum space is formed between the intermediate case and the outer case, the intermediate case includes a fluid supply flow path for supplying a heating fluid to the heat storage space
Implementation Method 2
a vacuum space is formed between the intermediate case and the outer case
Data Source
AI summary
An inner case of an electrolysis system houses therein an electrolysis stack. An intermediate case encloses the inner case from outside. An outer case encloses the intermediate case from outside. A method of operating the electrolysis system includes a vacuum step, a heat storage step, and an electrolysis starting step. In the vacuum step, air in a vacuum space formed between the intermediate case and the outer case is discharged. In the heat storage step, a heating fluid is supplied to a heat storage space formed between the inner case and the intermediate case.