HyAxiom Inc., a leading manufacturer of stationary fuel cell solutions based in Connecticut, is showcasing the PureCell Model 400, the world’s only commercially available fuel cell that operates on 100 percent hydrogen, at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024.
The global search for cleaner energy sources has led to an increased focus on renewable energy such as solar and wind power. However, these sources are not continuously available, necessitating an alternate power source that does not rely on fossil fuels.
Stationary fuel cells, like those produced by HyAxiom, can generate on-demand energy by oxidizing hydrogen or hydrogen-containing fuel. This process generates electricity and heat without combustion, resulting in significantly lower emissions. Notably, a pure hydrogen-based fuel cell produces only water as a byproduct.
The PureCell Model 400 Hydrogen fuel cell, according to HyAxiom Inc., operates purely on hydrogen without generating any harmful emissions. It boasts a power rating of 440kW and also produces 352 kW (1.2 MMBtu/ hr) of heat, which can be utilized for space heating or other applications. With an efficiency of 90 percent, this fuel cell is ideal for use in commercial buildings, universities, and hostels.
Furthermore, the operation of the fuel cell does not require water input, making it suitable for deployment in remote locations.
Addressing the scarcity of green hydrogen, HyAxiom has plans to introduce its own Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) Electrolyzer. This system breaks down water molecules to produce hydrogen for fuel cells. The PEM electrolyzers, with an efficiency of 75 percent, can be easily scaled from 1 MW to 100+ MW without any major design modifications.
HyAxiom’s PEM electrolyzer, being demonstrated for the first time at a trade show like CES 2024, can work in tandem with solar or wind power plants to produce green hydrogen for fuel cells. This innovation reduces the environmental footprint of combined cycle power plants.
In addition to the PureCell Model 400 and the PEM Electrolyzer, HyAxiom is also displaying its maritime solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) that help long-haul vessels meet stricter emission requirements at reduced costs. The utility of these fuel cells has already been demonstrated through a 50MW plant set up in Korea in 2020.
Image credit: Interestingengineering.com
