What role does a vertical high-temperature tube furnace play in SOFC interconnect testing? Simulate Corrosion Environments

The primary role of a vertical high-temperature tube furnace in this context is to create a controlled simulation chamber that mimics the exact thermal and chemical stresses Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) interconnects endure during operation. By maintaining a temperature range between 500°C and 1200°C and utilizing a precision gas path system, the furnace replicates the dual-atmosphere conditions—both oxidizing and reducing—that cause corrosion in Fe-16Cr alloys.

The core value of this apparatus lies in its ability to authentically restore complex corrosion conditions. It does not simply heat the material; it integrates precise thermal stability with flexible atmosphere switching to subject interconnects to the specific chemical realities of both the anode and cathode environments.

The Critical Function of Thermal Regulation

Replicating Operational Extremes

The fundamental requirement for testing SOFC interconnects is achieving the correct operating temperature. The vertical tube furnace provides a stable thermal environment specifically tunable between 500°C and 1200°C.

Targeting Fe-16Cr Alloys

This temperature range is critical for validating Ferritic Stainless Steels, specifically Fe-16Cr alloys. These materials are commonly used as interconnects but are susceptible to oxidation and chromium evaporation at these elevated temperatures.

Simulating Chemical Environments via Atmosphere Control

The Necessity of a Gas Path System

Temperature alone is insufficient for corrosion testing; the chemical atmosphere dictates the degradation mechanism. The tube furnace relies on a precision gas path control system to introduce specific chemical mixtures into the chamber.

Mimicking the Cathode Side

To simulate the environment on the air (cathode) side of the fuel cell, the system introduces dry air or humid air. This allows researchers to observe oxidation behaviors and the stability of the oxide scale formed on the interconnect surface.

Mimicking the Anode Side

The anode side presents a harsher challenge, often involving fuel gases. The system can switch to wet hydrogen or methane to replicate these reducing environments, which can lead to carburization or distinct corrosion patterns unlike those seen in air.

Understanding the Trade-offs

Complexity of Setup vs. Data Fidelity

While this setup offers high fidelity, it introduces significant complexity. Utilizing combustible gases like hydrogen or methane requires rigorous safety protocols and precise mass flow controllers, increasing the operational overhead compared to simple air furnaces.

The Challenge of Humidity Control

Simulating "wet" environments (wet hydrogen or humid air) adds a layer of difficulty. The system must maintain precise water vapor levels to accurately test for moisture-induced corrosion, which is a common failure mode in real-world SOFC stacks.

Making the Right Choice for Your Simulation

To ensure your experimental setup yields valid data for SOFC interconnects, consider these strategic priorities:

• If your primary focus is cathode-side durability: Prioritize a furnace with precise humidity generation to test the effects of moisture in air on oxide scale evaporation.
• If your primary focus is anode-side fuel compatibility: Ensure your system is rated for flammable gases (hydrogen/methane) and includes necessary safety interlocks for high-temperature operation.

By strictly controlling both the thermal profile and the chemical atmosphere, you transform a standard furnace into a definitive validation tool for clean energy materials.

Summary Table:

Feature	Function in SOFC Testing	Impact on Interconnect Research
Temperature Range	500°C to 1200°C	Replicates operational thermal stress on Fe-16Cr alloys.
Atmosphere Control	Dry/Humid Air & Wet H2/CH4	Simulates cathode (oxidizing) and anode (reducing) environments.
Gas Path System	Precision Gas Injection	Enables the study of chromium evaporation and carburization.
Vertical Orientation	Optimized Chamber Design	Ensures uniform heat distribution and stable gas flow for coupons.

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References

1. Zhiyuan Chen, Kuo‐Chih Chou. Thermodynamic Analysis of the Corrosion of Fe-16Cr Alloy Interconnect of Solid Oxide Fuel Cell under Various Atmospheres. DOI: 10.1515/htmp-2013-0104

This article is also based on technical information from Kintek Solution Knowledge Base .