PNNL-13501 - Pacific Northwest National Laboratory

cell performance, although not large enough to test
thermal management issues. The test stand consists of a
Lynntech Fuel Cell Test System (purchased with non-
LDRD funding) and a stainless steel hearthplate/gas
header assembly, which is situated in a furnace. The
Lynntech apparatus controls gas mixing and flow as well
as providing a controlled electrical load and data logger.
The solid oxide fuel cell stack under test is placed
between the top and bottom plates of the hearthplate.
One test was conducted by this project, on an all-ceramic
solid oxide fuel cell design (Figure 2), which was
operated at 1000°C. Several problems were encountered
with this design, particularly with electrical contact
through the stack and gas sealing. Designs have been
improved since the work was transferred to follow-on
DOE projects.
Summary and Conclusions
The project successfully completed purchase of
equipment and setup of a solid oxide fuel cell test stand.
One solid oxide fuel cell stack design was tested prior to
terminating the LDRD project in favor of follow-on
project funding.
Figure 2. Exploded view drawing of all-ceramic, 1000°C
solid oxide fuel cell stack that was tested in test stand.
Materials Science and Technology 319