APC 400kW1MW User Manual download pdf (Page 61)

electrical system’s overall reliability. There are other aspects gained from this fuel cell’s history

that would give more insight to the designer. For example, the designer would be able to more

precisely predict the intensity of required maintenance and associated lifecycle costs.

In addition to reliability, a fuel cell’s efficiency, initial costs, and waste heat applications

must be taken into account when selecting a fuel cell type. The costs of a fuel cell system will

be a concern for every owner as they strive to make a profit from the operation of their facility.

The different fuel cell types presented in this report have electrical and CHP efficiencies ranging

from 35 to 60% and 60 to 90%, respectively. However, keep in mind that there may not be a

need in the facility for all of the low grade waste heat produced by the fuel cell system. Without

a use for this waste heat, the fuel cell system efficiencies will not reach the maximum 90%

value. The operating costs of the fuel cell system will be greatly influenced by the system’s

efficiency.

The differences in initial cost of fuel cells are influenced by their construction materials.

For example, the SOFC uses less expensive non-precious metals for its catalyst, while the

PEMFC and PAFC have pricey platinum catalysts. This report did not include any sort of cost

analysis for fuel cell systems. However, a cost analysis would be necessary to properly

compare different fuel cell types, taking into account initial costs, operating costs, lifetime

expectancy, federal and state incentive programs, net metering, and tariffs imposed by the local

utility company. In addition, a cost analysis comparison may be necessary in order to

determine whether or not a fuel cell system should be used over a typical utility grid connection

with generator backup.

If a combined heat and power system is desired, then a fuel cell with high grade waste

heat, such as the PAFC, MCFC, or SOFC, will be necessary. With a data center’s constant

cooling needs, it is recommended that a combined heat and power system be applied when

using a fuel cell system as the primary power source. If not, the waste heat would be

exhausted, and the owner would not be able to benefit from the higher efficiencies that are

obtainable with a cogeneration system.

One last consideration to make when selecting a fuel cell type is the fuel sources

available to the data center and the fuel source options available from a fuel cell manufacturer.

Both the DFC300 and the PureCell Model 400 are able to operate with a natural gas fuel supply,

as seen on the equipment data sheets in Appendix B. The PureCell Model 400 is also able to

operate with an anaerobic digester gas (ADG) supply. Be aware that some fuel options, such

ADG with the PureCell 400, require additional equipment. Other fuel cells, such as APC’s

InfraStruXure

with Integrated Fuel Cells system, require pure hydrogen.

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APC 400kW1MW User Manual Page 61