Examination and Enhancement of a Hybrid Energy System Including a Stirling Engine and a Fuel Cell
Keywords:
Hybrid system, Fuel cell, Stirling engine, Genetic algorithmAbstract
Recently, there has been increased interest in hybrid systems that combine a Stirling engine and fuel cell as a new and clean energy source. By using the fuel cell's heat as a heat source for the Stirling engine, which generates mechanical work, the hybrid system runs by producing both heat and electricity. This study presents an overview of this kind of hybrid system, including its benefits and drawbacks. The genetic algorithm-based optimization technique is presented, and the optimized model is finally simulated using MATLAB's Simulink environment. The results indicate that the Stirling engine's performance remains unaffected by variations in gas partial pressures at the anode and cathode sides of the fuel cell, which serves as the heat source for the engine and the hybrid system. The engine's performance is influenced by operational temperature and environment, which remain unchanged during optimization. The fuel cell is the only component influencing the system's hybrid power output and efficiency, with electrical power reaching 117 kilowatts and 126 kilowatts before and after optimization. It is recommended to use this system as a combined heat and power (CHP) system in small communities and public places.
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