ERDC-CERL Projects: Introduction
Background | Guidelines | Fuel Cell Activities | Useful Links | Contact InformationBackground
As part of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers team, the Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) develops innovative science and technology solutions to support warfighting, infrastructure, environmental, water resources, and disaster operations. The ERDC is an integrated research and development organization that consists of seven laboratories, which include the Construction Engineering Research Laboratory (CERL).
Since 1992, ERDC-CERL has offered valuable insights into evaluating and installing fuel cell power plants for stationary applications. ERDC-CERL has installed a fleet of 30 Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cells (PAFCs), and performed demonstrations of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFCs) power plants at more than 50 locations. Through all of its different projects, ERDC-CERL has demonstrated more than 250 fuel cells installations for stationary power. The fuel cell demonstrations have ranged in size from 500 W to 1 MW, utilizing PAFCs, PEMFCs as well as Molten Carbonate Fuel Cells (MCFCs) and Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs). ERDC-CERL has also worked closely with Concurrent Technologies Corporation (CTC) to operate the DoD Fuel Cell Test and Evaluation Center (FCTec).
Guidelines
The ERDC-CERL Fuel Cell Team is working under the following energy policy and strategy guidelines from the Department of the Army, DOD, and DOE.- Army Energy Strategy for Installations
- Training and Doctrine Command's Force Operating Capabilities
- 2005 Energy Policy Act More Information
Fuel Cell Activities
ERDC-CERL fuel cell activities are highlighted under the following categories:
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PAFC Demonstration
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The largest demonstration of phosphoric acid fuel cell power plants in the United States. Thirty 200 kW power plants located at DoD facilities have operated almost 850,000 total hours.
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PEM fuel cells, ranging in size from 2-5 kW, are being demonstrated at DoD facilities.
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A world class testing facility for fuel cell power plant and component research and development.
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A DoD based incentive program to assist with the deployment of fuel cell power plants throughout the world.
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A number of fuel cell technology development projects aimed at fostering successful fuel cell development.
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Various Hydrogen-related projects that ERDC/CERL is involved in.
Useful Links
Click here for the latest presentation on the ERDC/CERL fuel cell and hydrogen projects.In addition, this site provides a wide array of useful resources for learning more about fuel cell technology, including:
- Fuel Cell Information Guide that includes fuel cell descriptions and application guidance and economic analysis information.
- Calendar of Events listing industry related seminars.
- What's New section highlighting important press releases and site additions.
- Library of documents, photographs and news items.
- Links to related fuel cell sites on the Internet.