Improving hybrid SOFC-GT systems performance through turbomachinery design

Abstract

A methodology to improve the performance of a hybrid solid oxide fuel cell gas turbine (SOFC-GT) system for the whole operating range is proposed. The method suggests a way to estimate the geometric parameters of the turbomachinery components for a hybrid SOFC-GT system. It is based on the search of the compressor and turbine operating lines giving the optimum system efficiency both in design and part load operation. Turbomachinery models are used to calculate the geometry that produces the desired performance maps and the corresponding operating lines. Based on the new turbomachinery design, the hybrid system shows a clear efficiency advantage for the whole operating range. Copyright (c) 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.