Hierarchical 3D multiphysics modelling in the design and optimisation of SOFC system components

This paper presents a novel bottom-up modelling approach to aid in the design and optimisation of the Research Centre Jülich type integrated module components. The approach is demonstrated by employing the air pre-heater component. A feasibility study considering the thermo fluid, thermo mechanical behaviour of the physical air pre-heater design compared to a simplified design is introduced. Analogue design simplifications are performed to the afterburner and pre-reformer components. The results reveal that a simplified design can be feasible for thermo fluid flow analyses, but are not representative for mechanical analyses. The integrated module considering the simplified system components is simulated in 3D, considering the multiphysics that occur within each component. The predictions of the air pre-heater component obtained from the integrated module analysis are compared to the stand-alone air pre-heater simulation results. The results are in very good agreement. The approach is proven to be useful for the optimisation of the integrated module. Moreover, the investigation of local processes, critical regions can be visualised. The methodology demonstrates the effective simulation of large scale systems in 3D.