PRECISION COMBUSTION, INC. — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: A20-048

Description

Precision Combustion, Inc. (PCI) will develop a scalable, high power density, hybrid 2-5 kW solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) generator based on its advanced solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) technology and proven balance of plant components. It will outperform state-of-the-art generators via higher efficiency, quiet operation, low maintenance, and operational environment. Technical risks have been reduced via field demonstrations of continuous operation with JP-8, achieving high fuel-to-electric efficiency, low noise signature, and durability with multiple start-stop cycles. The core technology is based on established manufacturing methods that avoid cost and variability. The Phase I deliverable will be a 2–5 kW hybrid SOFC generator design that meets the solicitation objectives of JP-8 fueling, variable power output, and weight. A standalone 2–5 kW prototype will be fabricated and demonstrated to meet the solicitation metrics of weight, performance, and acoustic signature during Phase II. PCI’s proposed approach will result in a system that will be smaller, lighter, and more thermally efficient, than alternative technologies. This effort would significantly reduce the known technical risks for electrochemical generators. A successful outcome would result in increased mission capability and advancing the TRL of battlefield-suitable SOFC generators.