The purpose. Determination of radii ranges for cylindrical and convex (semi-spheroidal) parts of the solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) semi-spheroidal shape anode based on stress and strain parameters calculated; comparison of 3D graphs of stress/strain distribution in anodes of proposed and spheroidal shapes; substantiation of the semi-spheroidal anode potential to withstand deformation and stress gradient under operational conditions.
The research method. The object of research is a solid oxide fuel cell anode of a semi-spheroidal shape loaded with a fixing pressure along the closed-loop fixing and with an external gas pressure applied to the anode working surface. Stress and strain distributions in the anode were calculated by finite element analysis using software for calculating three-dimensional tasks Mechanical Desktop 6 Power Pack. Three-dimensional (3D) dependences of stress/strain distribution in anodes of proposed and spheroidal shapes at a variety of R / Rc ratios were plotted. Based on these curves, 3D surfaces of stress distribution along the axis and closed-loop fixing of semi-spheroidal shape anodes were constructed.
Results. Three-dimensional curves of the graphic intersections of the surfaces of stress distribution along the axis and closed-loop fixing of semi-spheroidal shape anodes, with their projections on three coordinate planes, were plotted. The curves display the values of balanced stresses depending on geometric parameters. Domains of these curves were also defined.
The scientific novelty. The proposed method of building 3D surfaces of stress/strain distribution in anodes depending on their geometric parameters shows for the first time that there exists an area of geometric parameters that allows the appropriate stress level to be reached ensuing safe long-term operation of the semi-spheroidal shape anode. The domain of this area was graphically defined. Based on the plotted isolines showing levels of strain in anodes with the 0.5 mm, 1 mm, and 1.5 mm thick cylindrical parts and a variety of spheroid to cylinder radii ratios, an advantage of a semi-spheroidal shape anode over spheroidal one was substantiated.
The practical value. The obtained calculation results and their 3D graphical interpretation can be used in the study of the stress state and, respectively, to evaluate the strength and stiffness of the anode supported SOFCs of various shapes.
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