Watt Fuel Cell, an RV power source supplier, said the company recently made a technological advancement increasing the efficiency of its fuel cells and reduces their CO2 emissions.
Watt gained efficiency by employing a new Catalytic Partial Oxidation (CPOX) fuel processing technology combined with its Additive Manufacturing Process (AMP), a 3-D printing process enabling the company to tailor the composition and microstructure of their Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs).
According to the company, Watt’s process results in superior performance and thermal shock capabilities not achievable with traditional SOFC manufacturing processes.
“Our technology was already outperforming other similar fuel cell system efficiencies by 10-15%; this advancement continues to extend that advantage,” said Caine Finnerty, Watt Fuel Cell president, COO and founder
The development results from a CPOX reforming process, leading to over 50% efficiency in Watt’s SOFCs, the company said.
CPOX reforming, combining air and fuel to produce hydrogen, is used for its simplicity, ability to cycle and lower price point. The process traditionally yields a lower efficiency than steam reforming, which involves processing fuel with steam rather than air.
According to Watt Fuel Cell, its new technology delivers performance comparable to steam-based systems without additional components and costs.
Watt Fuel Cell Corporation develops and produces combustion-free, low emissions SOFC stacks and systems that operate on common, readily available fuels such as natural gas and propane. Watt’s proprietary, AMP process enables it to produce power sources for RV and other industries.
