Process Systems Enterprise Limited
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AML:FC

Comparison with other tools

There are many tools available on the market that claim to be able to model fuel cell systems.

The table below shows what we think are the most important requirements, and how the gPROMS – AML:FC solution stacks up against other products. You can also read more about the advantages of gPROMS here.

Note that the statements in the table below represent PSE's opinion and are correct to the best of our knowledge. However they should not be taken at face value and you are urged to perform your own analysis.

 

Feature

gPROMS

CFD packages - typical capability

Flowsheet simulators - typical capability

A

MEA modelling and analysis
Description of the fundamental electrochemistry, molecular diffusion and reaction phenomena occurring in the Membrane Electrode Assembly

1

A high fidelity micro-scale model of the composite anode-electrolyte-cathode material

Yes

Yes

Not suitable

2

Calculation of voltage losses due to

  • resistance to ion transport through the electrolyte
  • activation over-potential losses at the anode and cathode interfaces
  • electronic leakage across electrolyte
  • ohmic losses in the anode and cathode diffusive layers and at the current collectors

Yes with diffusion limitations handled by the most accurate implementation of Maxwell-Stefan multi-component diffusion

Yes

3

Calculation of temperature and concentration profiles across the MEA with internal reforming in the anode if appropriate

Yes

Yes

4

Model-based data analysis to determine empirical model parameters using VI curves

Yes

No
 

B

Stack modelling and analysis
A description of the MEA coupled with a model of fluid flow through the stack

1

Use of formally validated MEA model (from A)

Yes

No

Not suitable

2

Detailed description of fluid flow through fuel and air channels

Yes with hybrid gPROMS/Fluent solution

Yes

3

High fidelity multiple layer/cell stack model

Hybrid gPROMS/Fluent solution capability for full stack simulation

Small number of layers only

4

Capability to predict and analyse steady-state stack performance

Yes

Yes

5

Dynamic capability to predict and analyse transient stack performance

Yes

No

6

Use of formal optimization techniques to optimize stack design parameters

Yes

No

 

C

System modelling and analysis
Characterisation of the complete fuel cell system (including stack, reactors, heat exchange, compressors)

1

High accuracy stack model including validated MEA model (from A and B)

Yes

Not applicable

No

2

Availability of model library for ancillary equipment items

Yes

Yes

3

Modelling of inter-unit radiation and convective heat integration (including hot box)

Yes

No

4

Graphical model construction

Yes

Yes

5

Steady-state simulation for system design and assessment

Yes

Yes

6

Dynamic assessment of system behaviour for full system start-up, load change and shut down

Yes

No

7

Control system design and verification facilities

Yes – either within gPROMS or via a link to Simulink®

No

8

Export of linearised models for control scheme analysis and design

Yes

No