SOFC Testing Solutions

Testing solutions for every testing task, from mobile applications, as part of on-board power generation, to stationary applications in combined heat and power modules.

SOFC Testbed empty

The solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) is a promising solution for the energy transition towards a sustainable hydrogen economy. 

With its operating temperature of at least 650°C, the SOFC is considered a high-temperature fuel cell and, in conjunction with the utilisation of the available thermal energy, enables significantly higher overall efficiencies of > 80%.

AVL can look back on over 20 years of experience in the field of engineering and testing, which flows into the design of our test solutions.

We cover the entire development process, from the simulation of individual components to the testing of fuel cell systems and end applications.

Over the past 20 years, we have gained a great deal of experience in SOFC development and have completed around 100 development projects. The requirements for practical verification, but also the available options for realisation, have constantly evolved and now help our customers to achieve their development goals.

SOFC SHP System

Hardware and software solutions for SOFC test beds

SOFC technology is currently still at the development stage, both in terms of design and the corresponding operating strategy.The main focus of test benches in the development environment is on design validation and proof of performance of the test specimen under specified conditions; in addition, operating strategies for start-up, operation and shutdown are developed, taking into account efficiency and minimising the potential for damage.Our hardware and software solutions in conjunction with established automation provide them with all the necessary framework conditions and the corresponding flexibility.

 

SOFC automation

Simulation and emulation

One of the biggest challenges when starting an SOFC development program from scratch is co-simulation and emulation. We overcome these challenges because of our intensive SOFC research. With this background knowledge and our sophisticated simulation toolchain, we first use virtual models and later replace them with actual hardware components. We link these simulation capabilities to our various test benches.

 

 

SOFC stack simulation
Michael Standke

We believe in SOFC technology because it will enable a major leap in efficiency through the intelligent use of resources. This great potential for cost and energy efficiency makes SOFC a technology that has a great future ahead of it.

- Michael Standke, System Line Manager Stationary Fuel Cells, AVL

We support you in the design and development of your own SOFC laboratory. We offer a full range of services, from consulting, engineering, management and procurement of equipment to the construction and successful acceptance of the laboratory.

SOFC Testbed at AVL headquarter
HyTron
AVL HyTron

A gas conditioning and consumption solution for hydrogen and other gaseous fuels. Learn more about this dedicated product to safely supply and condition gases for the testbed usage.

AVL X-ion EIS
Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy with AVL X-ion and AVL Smart EIS

The Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) is an innovative stimulus response testing technology for checking the frequency-dependent internal resistance of electrochemical cells such as batteries or fuel cells.

Fuel Cell Virtualization
Fuel Cell Operating Strategy Optimization and Testing

Enhancing fuel cell system optimization and testing with simulation.

AVL PEM Testing
PEM Fuel Cell Testing Solutions

Testing solutions for every development step from cell to system for all applications from passenger car to aviation

SOFC Testbed
SOFC System Test Bed

The SOFC (solid oxide fuel cell) system test bed (TB) is capable of testing units from 5 kWe (net power) up to 400 kWe (net power) under different operating scenarios.

Energy Landscape
Industrial Energy Engineering

Experts all agree: The energy system of the future is carbon neutral. However, there is less of a consensus when it comes to how to provide energy affordably, easily, and reliably. At AVL we deliver answers and solutions.

AVL Balance-of-Plant testing
AVL Balance-of-Plant Testing

AVL balance-of-plant (BoP) testing solutions are modular and tailored test beds to emulate the real load of a fuel cell system.

Puma
AVL PUMA 2™ Fuel Cell

AVL PUMA 2™ Fuel Cell is our intuitive automation system for highly dynamic fuel cell system testing. It is the global industry standard for testbed automation.

Fuelcell Testbed
AVL Fuel Cell System Testbed

AVL designed the integrated Fuel Cell System Testbed to provide highly efficient and accurate testing while minimizing integration efforts. Reusing our reliable and proven modules and transferring our R&D expertise and maturity into a compact solution was crucial. 

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AVL PUMA 2™ Fuel Cell Stack and Cell

AVL PUMA 2™ Fuel Cell Stack and Cell is a state-of-the-art automation system for fuel cell stack and cell testing 

FuelCell Test Systems
Hydrogen Testing Solutions

In the search for green and sustainable mobility, AVL has addressed the challenges of developing and validating automotive fuel cell systems – from a single cell up to complete systems for various applications. 

Fuel Cell Power Generation
Fuel Cell Power Generation

AVL offers complete solutions for decentralized power generation.

Our engineering teams work for leading manufacturers and research institutes around the world on the development and testing of fuel cells. We have helped to shape the development methodology for a wide range of performance classes and application areas and have developed a corresponding product and solution portfolio to support them with their individual challenges.

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Highlights

GL-AST_Image-Web-Webinar-System-Simulation-for-Marine-Propulsion-TI_06-18
Maritime Mobility Special
On-demand

This exclusive webinar gets to grips with all things maritime mobility. 

H2 Safety Services
Safety in Testbeds for FC Systems and H2ICE
On-demand

New Technologies demand not just new testing methods and testing devices but also customized safety measures. 

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AVL Contribution to DLR Project: 1.5- Megawatt Composite Testbed for Fuel Cells

World's first test field for fuel cell propulsion systems in the megawatt range

Ready4Wasserstoff
AVL Joins HZwo Innovation Cluster to Drive New Mobility Technologies
Close alliance between academic research and industry for an accelerated energy transition in Saxony, Germany
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AVL and Ceres Set to Combine Competencies for Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Systems Technology

New cooperation