Added Value due to standard Configuration – FuelCon Test Stations convince by integrated Features

Testing and validating fuel cells is a highly complex procedure, where many single steps need to intertwine in order to eventually supply reliable measuring data and results. In dependence on the respective technology, this means especially an extensive preparation of test runs, where the test item, the test station and the test procedure as such must be enabled and adjusted for the corresponding requirements.

As an experienced manufacturer of test stations for fuel cells and batteries, FuelCon is conscious of the special requirements, which result from the daily operations with test equipment and incorporates this knowledge in the test station design for years. This yields the advantages of a comprehensive safety concept and also a noticeable work simplification, which – as part of an overall concept – makes FuelCon products unique. Thus, all of our Evaluator fuel cell test stations are equipped with included features by default, that are one of a kind in the international competition and thereby establish a distinct unique selling proposition.

Already when it comes to the ergonomics of a test station, FuelCon puts emphasis on optimal working conditions for users, as well as on ultimate safety during the test procedure. For instance, all of our fuel cell test stations, starting from short-stack class have a solid housing, which separates the test cabinet from the process technology and the environment. Hence, disturbing outside influences can be avoided exactly like dangers for the environment due to a test item’s dysfunction. If it comes to voltage, which is greater or equal to 60 V, the doors of the test cabinet get equipped with automatic locking mechanisms, in order to keep safe from unwanted contact and damage.

Beside the safety for the environment, test item, test equipment and user, especially the ergonomics of the usage is an important factor and finds special consideration when it comes to the design. The test cabinets of our Evaluator fuel cell test stations are located in an optimal working height, in order to reduce physical strain. For bigger stacks as well as fuel cell systems, the test cabinet is conceptualized walkable or when necessary even drivable, so that test items can be rolled in directly or just contacted easily. For this, FuelCon offers test item carriages, whereon stacks and systems can be preassembled. Thus, the test item carriage with the test item can be rolled directly into the test cabinet and connected there.

At that, especially the complete test cabinet illumination helps. It arises out of a fully integrated ceiling lighting. Consequently, there are constantly given optimal visibility conditions, both for operations at the test item and during the test run. Under these circumstances, even very extensive mounting of the test item can be realized easily. For customer-specific interfaces, FuelCon test stations have to offer optimized transfer points. They are located in close vicinity to the test item and allow the inclusion of external devices. Depending on the equipment, CVM modules can be attached directly to some test item carriages for fuel cell stacks and systems. As a result, the effort for wiring gets reduced even more. FuelCon puts emphasis on an optimized visibility concept for SOFC test stations as well, which noticeably simplifies the connecting process in a top-hat furnace.

Summarized, these useful features, included in the standard equipment, create a considerable added value in contrast to conventional test equipment and support the user optimally. When necessary, every test station can be expanded with special solutions, that meet a customer’s needs to its full extent.