SOFC STACK SYSTEM ASSEMBLY WITH THERMAL ENCLOSURE

摘要

The present invention is concerned with improved fuel cell stack system assemblies comprising: (a) at least one fuel cell organised into at least one fuel cell stack defining an open oxidant inlet manifold; and (b) at least one enclosure housing: (i) said at least one fuel cell stack; (ii) a fuel cell stack oxidant-side inlet to said enclosure; (iii) a fuel cell stack oxidant-side outlet from said enclosure; (iv) a fuel inlet and outlet to said at least one fuel cell stack; and (v) at least one heat exchange surface of a heat exchanger, said at least one heat exchange surface having an in-use cool side on the interior of said enclosure and an in-use hot side external to said enclosure and in thermal communication with said fuel cell stack oxidant-side outlet; wherein said fuel cell stack system assembly defines an oxidant flow path: (A) from said fuel cell stack oxidant-side inlet; (B) across said at least one heat exchange surface; (C) across said at least one fuel cell stack; (D) to said fuel cell stack oxidant-side outlet.