SOFC Emulation Using Computer Controlled DC Motor/Generator Set

A dynamic and steady state model of the solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) is presented. Simulation results are shown. A laboratory prototype of the fuel cell is built. Both the dynamic and steady state results of the experimental model are verified with those obtained from simulation and show a close agreement with it. The proposed experimental model was designed to be connected to the grid as well as to supply isolated loads. The proposed model uses a DC motor as the prime mover for a separately excited DC generator, which represents the fuel cell. The fuel cell current and voltage are measured using a National Instruments (NT) data acquisition card and the control signal is fed back to change the generator's field current.