Simulation of a Natural Gas Solid Oxide Fuel Cell System Based on Rated Current Density Input

Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs) offer high-efficiency electrochemical conversion of fuels like natural gas, yet detailed modeling is crucial for optimization. This paper presents a simulation study of a natural gas-fueled SOFC system, developed using Aspen Plus with Fortran integration. Distinct from prevalent paradigms assuming rated power output, this work adopts rated current density as the primary input, enabling a more direct investigation of the cell’s electrochemical behavior. We conducted a comprehensive sensitivity analysis of key parameters, including fuel utilization, water-carbon ratio, and current density, and further investigated the impact of different interconnection configurations on overall module performance. Results demonstrate that a single unit operating at a current density of 180 mA/cm2, a fuel utilization of 0.75, and a water-carbon ratio of 1.5 can achieve a maximum net stack-level electrical efficiency of 54%. Furthermore, optimizing the interconnection of a 400 kW module by combining series and parallel units boosts the overall net system-level electrical efficiency to 59%, a 5-percentage-point increase over traditional parallel setups. This is achieved by utilizing a bottoming cycle for exhaust heat recovery. This research validates the rated current density approach for SOFC modeling, offering novel insights into performance optimization and modular design for integrated energy systems.