Analysis of long-time operation of micro-cogeneration unit with fuel cell.

Micro-cogeneration is cogeneration with small performance, with maximal electric power up to 50 kW_e. On the present, there are available small micro-cogeneration units with small electric performance, about 1 kW_e, which are usable also in single family houses or flats. These micro-cogeneration units operate on principle of conventional combustion engine, Stirling engine, steam engine or fuel cell. Micro-cogeneration units with fuel cells are new progressive developing type of units for single family houses. Fuel cell is electrochemical device which by oxidation-reduction reaction turn directly chemical energy of fuel to electric power, secondary products are pure water and thermal energy. The aim of paper is measuring and evaluation of operation parameters of micro-cogeneration unit with fuel cell which uses natural gas as a fuel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]