High-Temperature Electrolysis CFD Simulation

High-Temperature Electrolysis CFD Simulation in ANSYS Fluent: A Comprehensive Guide

Welcome to the second chapter of our Electrolysis Training Course, focusing on High-Temperature Electrolysis simulation using ANSYS Fluent. This advanced module builds upon the foundational concepts, offering a deep dive into practical CFD simulation techniques.

Understanding High-Temperature Electrolysis

Before we delve into the simulation process, let’s establish a clear understanding of high-temperature electrolysis:

Electrolysis vs. Fuel Cells

Electrolysis is essentially the reverse process of a fuel cell:

• Fuel cells convert chemical energy into electrical energy
• Electrolyzers use electricity to produce fuel (hydrogen) and water

Components of an Electrolyzer

Key components include:

• Anode and cathode (electrical poles)
• Electrolyte layer for ion transport
• Catalyst layer to accelerate reactions
• Water vapor input and electron supply

Understanding these components is crucial for accurate simulation modeling.

High-Temperature Electrolysis Simulation Methodology

Our simulation approach utilizes ANSYS Fluent’s powerful CFD capabilities:

Geometry Design and Meshing

• 3D model created using Design Modeler software
• Unstructured meshing with ANSYS Meshing software
• 2,393,706 cells generated for precise simulation

Simulation Setup in ANSYS Fluent

• Utilization of the Fuel Cell and Electrolysis add-on module
• Configuration of electrolyzer layers (cathode, anode, electrolyte)
• Implementation of the species transport model for H2, O2, and H2O

Key Simulation Parameters and Models

Electrolyzer Layer Configuration

Detailed setup of:

• Current collectors
• Gas diffusion layers (electrode layers)
• Catalyst layers
• Flow channels

Species Transport Model

Crucial for modeling the behavior of H2, O2, and H2O within the system.

Simulation Results and Analysis

Our comprehensive simulation yields valuable insights:

Contour Analysis

Examination of contours for:

• Electric potential
• Protonic potential
• Current flux density magnitude
• Transfer current
• Mass fractions of H2, O2, and H2O

Electrochemical Behavior Insights

• Water vapor entry from the anode side
• Hydrogen production on the anode side
• Oxygen production on the cathode side

These results align with the expected functional mechanism of the electrolysis system.

Advanced Simulation Features

User-Defined Scalars (UDS)

Analysis of:

• Electric potential (scalar 0)
• Protonic potential (scalar 1)

These scalars provide insights into the electron and proton behavior within electrolyzer layers.

User-Defined Memories (UDM)

Examination of:

• Current flux density magnitude (UDM 3)
• Transfer current (UDM 13)

These UDMs confirm the presence and distribution of electric current in the electrolyzer.

Why This High-Temperature Electrolysis Simulation is Crucial

This simulation module offers:

• Practical application of advanced CFD techniques
• Deep understanding of high-temperature electrolysis processes
• Insights into complex electrochemical reactions and current distributions

Target Audience

This module is ideal for:

• CFD specialists focusing on electrochemical processes
• Researchers in renewable energy and hydrogen production
• Engineers developing high-temperature electrolysis systems

Learning Outcomes

Upon completing this module, you will be able to:

• Set up and run high-temperature electrolysis simulations in ANSYS Fluent
• Interpret complex CFD results related to electrolysis processes
• Apply advanced modeling techniques to optimize electrolyzer designs

Elevate your electrolysis simulation skills with this comprehensive guide to high-temperature electrolysis modeling in ANSYS Fluent!