Fuel Cell Batteries for Operation of Aids to Navigation.
Abstract
A program for the development of air-breathing fuel cell batteries for the operation of aids to navigation is discussed. Calcium hydride is used as fuel. The fuel cell batteries provide a significantly higher energy density than conventional power sources. The development focuses on battery system suitable for U.S. Coast Guard requirements. Modules with a capacity of 6KWH and a nominal rating of 2 watts at 13 volts are being developed. Design and evaluation of single cells and battery modules are discussed. Testing is performed mostly with a U.S. Coast Guard flasher using a 1.15A lamp. The program discussed in this report is a first step towards the development of hydride-based fuel cell batteries for use with aids to navigation. The development effort carried out so far has confirmed the suitability of the hydride cell for the design of high energy density batteries. Additional work is requred, however, to arrive at applicable hardware. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1977
- Accession Number
- ADA052574