WO2003033862A1 - Operating fuel cells - Google Patents

Operating fuel cells Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2003033862A1
WO2003033862A1 PCT/GB2002/004615 GB0204615W WO03033862A1 WO 2003033862 A1 WO2003033862 A1 WO 2003033862A1 GB 0204615 W GB0204615 W GB 0204615W WO 03033862 A1 WO03033862 A1 WO 03033862A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
pressure
fuel cell
excess
electrolyte
temperature
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/GB2002/004615
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Steven Martin Hudson
Original Assignee
Expro North Sea Limited
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from GBGB0124589.3A external-priority patent/GB0124589D0/en
Priority claimed from GB0125518A external-priority patent/GB0125518D0/en
Application filed by Expro North Sea Limited filed Critical Expro North Sea Limited
Publication of WO2003033862A1 publication Critical patent/WO2003033862A1/en

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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M10/00—Secondary cells; Manufacture thereof
    • H01M10/42—Methods or arrangements for servicing or maintenance of secondary cells or secondary half-cells
    • H01M10/425—Structural combination with electronic components, e.g. electronic circuits integrated to the outside of the casing
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
    • E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
    • E21B41/00—Equipment or details not covered by groups E21B15/00 - E21B40/00
    • E21B41/0085—Adaptations of electric power generating means for use in boreholes
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M8/00—Fuel cells; Manufacture thereof
    • H01M8/04—Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids
    • H01M8/04082—Arrangements for control of reactant parameters, e.g. pressure or concentration
    • H01M8/04089—Arrangements for control of reactant parameters, e.g. pressure or concentration of gaseous reactants
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M8/00—Fuel cells; Manufacture thereof
    • H01M8/04—Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids
    • H01M8/04291—Arrangements for managing water in solid electrolyte fuel cell systems
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M8/00—Fuel cells; Manufacture thereof
    • H01M8/24—Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells
    • H01M8/2465—Details of groupings of fuel cells
    • H01M8/247—Arrangements for tightening a stack, for accommodation of a stack in a tank or for assembling different tanks
    • H01M8/2475—Enclosures, casings or containers of fuel cell stacks
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M10/00—Secondary cells; Manufacture thereof
    • H01M10/05—Accumulators with non-aqueous electrolyte
    • H01M10/052—Li-accumulators
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/20—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders
    • H01M50/204—Racks, modules or packs for multiple batteries or multiple cells
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/20—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders
    • H01M50/253—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders adapted for specific cells, e.g. electrochemical cells operating at high temperature
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/20—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders
    • H01M50/296—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders characterised by terminals of battery packs
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M6/00—Primary cells; Manufacture thereof
    • H01M6/42—Grouping of primary cells into batteries
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M6/00—Primary cells; Manufacture thereof
    • H01M6/50—Methods or arrangements for servicing or maintenance, e.g. for maintaining operating temperature
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E60/00—Enabling technologies; Technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to GHG emissions mitigation
    • Y02E60/10—Energy storage using batteries
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E60/00—Enabling technologies; Technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to GHG emissions mitigation
    • Y02E60/30—Hydrogen technology
    • Y02E60/50—Fuel cells

Definitions

  • This invention relates to the operation of fuel cells, particularly in pipeline systems of the type used in the oil and gas industry.
  • the invention is particularly relevant in situations where fuel cells are exposed to high temperature environments.
  • a method of operating a fuel cell comprising at least one electrolyte based element, the method comprising the step of subjecting the element to a pressure in excess of atmospheric pressure to suppress boiling and/or evaporation of electrolyte.
  • a method of operating a fuel cell comprising at least one electrolyte based element, the method comprising the steps of disposing the element in a pressure containment vessel and pressurising the vessel to suppress the boiling and/or evaporation of electrolyte.
  • the pressure in the vessel is in excess of atmospheric pressure, at least during operation.
  • a fuel cell assembly comprising a vessel within which is disposed at least one electrolyte based element wherein the vessel is arranged to be pressurised to a pressure in excess of atmospheric pressure to suppress the boiling and/or evaporation of electrolyte.
  • the vessel is a pressure containment vessel.
  • the pressure containment vessel is pressurised to a pressure in excess of atmospheric pressure, at least during operation.
  • Methods and assemblies of the present invention enable the effective operation of electrolyte based fuel cells at higher temperatures than would otherwise be the case.
  • the pressure to which the element (or each element) is subjected may be chosen to give the desired effect in electrolyte boiling/evaporation suppression.
  • the pressure is preferably in the order of 3 to 6 bar.
  • the pressure containment vessel may be filled with any suitable fluid to provide the desired pressure, examples include air, nitrogen and oil.
  • the pressure containment vessel preferably comprises at least one bi-directional pressure seal to seal the interior of the vessel against the surroundings.
  • a bi-directional pressure seal is one arranged to provide a seal whether the external pressure is greater or smaller than the pressure in the containment vessel.
  • the electrolyte based element it is currently preferred to subject the electrolyte based element to pressure by pressurising a sealed pressure containment vessel. This will typically be done during manufacture or assembly and before installation. However, in alternatives the element may be subjected to pressure by exposure to the ambient pressure. It will be appreciated that in downhole situations, not only is the temperature high but there is also high, ie well above atmospheric, pressure. It is envisaged that the element might be exposed directly or indirectly to the ambient pressure. Means may be provided such that although the pressure experienced by the element is due to ambient pressure, the value of the pressure is controlled. In some such cases the pressure to which the element is exposed may be a small fraction of the ambient pressure.
  • the method may be a pipeline system fuel cell operation method.
  • the method may be a downhole fuel cell operation method.
  • the assembly may be a pipeline system fuel cell assembly.
  • the assembly may be a downhole fuel cell assembly.
  • FIG. 1 schematically shows a first battery assembly useful in understanding the invention
  • FIG. 2 schematically shows a second battery assembly useful in understanding the invention
  • Figure 3 schematically shows a third battery assembly useful in understanding the invention
  • Figure 4 is an end view of battery assembly of the same type as the first battery assembly showing more detail
  • Figure 5 is a section on line V-V of the battery assembly shown in Figure 4;
  • Figure 6 is a wiring diagram showing the wiring of the battery assembly shown in Figure 4;
  • Figure 7 shows the arrangement of connection pins at the end of the battery assembly shown in Figure 4.
  • Figure 8 schematically shows a fuel cell assembly embodying the present invention.
  • FIG. 1 schematically shows a first battery assembly which comprises a plurality of electrolyte based electric cells 1 surrounded by a battery casing 2 to form a battery pack.
  • the battery pack 1,2 is disposed within a pressure containment vessel 3 which is arranged to be pressurised to a pressure in the range of 3-6 bar. Terminals 4 are provided on the exterior of the pressure containment vessel 3 to allow electrical connection to the battery pack 1,2.
  • the pressure containment vessel 3 is filled with air at a pressure in the desired range during manufacture or assembly. At least one bi-directional seal (not shown) is provided between two parts of the vessel 3 which can be separated to allow the introduction of the cells 1.
  • the battery casing 2 is arranged to allow the cells 1 to be subjected to the pressure in the pressure containment vessel 3. It should be noted, however, that this does not generally call for any modification of the casing 2 of conventionally used batteries.
  • the battery assembly is intended for use in high temperature environments.
  • the assembly is intended for use in pipeline systems used in the oil and gas industry.
  • the assembly is particularly suited for use in downhole locations in wells.
  • the assembly will be used in conjunction with other components as part of a downhole tool.
  • Such a tool might for example be used in the communication of data between the downhole location and the surface. In such a case the cells would provide the energy required to receive signals and transmit signals to the surface.
  • Other examples of equipment for which batteries are used as a power supply downhole include data loggers, pressure and temperature sensors, drilling guidance and control systems and mud pulsing telemetry systems.
  • electrolyte based cells 1 Subjecting electrolyte based cells 1 to increased pressure allows the cells 1 to be operated at a higher temperature than would otherwise be the case because the boiling or evaporation of electrolyte is suppressed.
  • the type of cells used may be chosen to suit circumstances.
  • the downhole conditions have necessitated the use of high temperature tolerant lithium based cells.
  • the present battery assembly it has been shown possible to use cheaper, alkaline batteries (in place of the lithium cells) at temperatures of 110 degrees centigrade where the pressure in the containment vessel 3 is 5 bar. It is also suspected that at this temperature, the pressure could be reduced somewhat below 5 bar. In some situations, at least some of the desired pressure may be realised automatically by virtue of the fluid pressure increasing with temperature. The fluid used might be selected to enhance this effect.
  • lithium cells In some cases it might be desired to use the present battery assembly with lithium cells to improve their performance. These lithium cells might be of a cheaper, less temperature tolerant, type. In general, any electrolyte based cell may benefit from being operated in an assembly of the present type. Rechargeable as well as primary cells can be used.
  • the cells 1 and battery casing 2 are disposed in a separate pressure containment vessel 3, it is envisaged that in a specially produced battery pack, the battery casing might itself act as the pressure containment vessel.
  • FIG. 2 shows a second battery assembly which is similar to the first assembly shown in Figure 1, with corresponding elements being given the same reference numerals.
  • the second battery assembly differs from the first in that an electronics/equipment module 5 is disposed within the pressure containment vessel 3.
  • the electronics/equipment 5 which requires the power to be supplied by the cells 1 is disposed in the same pressure vessel as the cells 1.
  • This arrangement serves to protect the electronics/equipment 5 from the environment without the provision of a separate vessel.
  • such an arrangement is of course only practical where the electronics/equipment can operate under the pressure required to give the desired improvement in cell temperature tolerance.
  • any other electrolyte based components in the electronics/equipment may equally benefit from the increased pressure.
  • the fluid chosen to provide pressure in the vessel 3 should be selected to avoid damage to silicon components - Nitrogen is a good choice in this regard.
  • FIG. 3 schematically shows a third battery assembly which is similar to the first two battery assemblies, again the same reference numerals are used to indicate corresponding elements.
  • the cells 1 are provided in a vessel 3a which is not a pressure containment vessel. Rather in this case the vessel 3a is arranged to allow ambient pressure to act on the cells 1 within the casing 2. The suppression of electrolyte boiling and evaporation may thus be achieved without the need for a sealed pressurised vessel.
  • such an assembly will be of limited application, at least in wells, because of the very high pressures which typically exist in the downhole environment. Where there is a very high ambient pressure, there is a risk that any small void in the battery could give rise to distortion or damage to the cell, battery or casing.
  • Another possibility which is envisaged is using the ambient pressure in a more controlled way to apply pressure to the cells 1.
  • Figures 4 to 7 show, in more detail, a battery assembly of the type shown in Figure 1.
  • the assembly comprises three "double D" cell alkaline battery packs, each comprising two cells 1 and a casing 2.
  • the cells 1 are wired to one another in the way shown in the wiring diagram of Figure 6 and are housed in an aluminium tube (not shown).
  • the aluminium tube containing the six cells 1 is itself housed in generally cylindrical steel pressure containment vessel 3.
  • Figure 7 shows an end view of part of the battery assembly. Seven terminal pins 4 are provided at each end of the battery assembly, one set of these pins can be seen in Figure 7.
  • the wiring of the cells 1, as shown in Figure 6, is such that external connection can be made to the cells 1 via the appropriate pins 4.
  • the battery assembly In assembly of the battery assembly an end portion of the steel vessel 3 is removed and the aluminium tube containing the ready wired cells 1 is inserted. The end portion is then replaced and the air in the vessel is pressurised to the desired pressure of say 3 bar. A bi-directional seal is provided between the end portion and the remainder of the vessel 3 so that the desired pressure is retained in the vessel 3 whether the external pressure is lower (eg during assembly) or higher (eg in situ downhole) than the internal pressure.
  • the battery assembly Once assembled the battery assembly may be deployed and connected to the electronics/equipment which the cells 1 are to power.
  • FIG 8 schematically shows a fuel cell assembly embodying the present invention.
  • the fuel cell assembly comprises a cathode 101 and anode 102 and sandwiched between the anode and cathode 101, 102 an electrolyte 103.
  • the anode 101, cathode 102, and electrolyte 103 form the basic elements of a fuel cell. Since fuel cell technology in itself is well known, no further details of the structure of the fuel cell are given herein as they are unnecessary for an understanding of the invention.
  • the fuel cell is disposed within a pressure containment vessel 3 of the same general type described with reference to Figures 1 to 3 and which may be broadly similar to that described with reference to Figures 4 and 5.
  • a pressure containment vessel 3 of the same general type described with reference to Figures 1 to 3 and which may be broadly similar to that described with reference to Figures 4 and 5.
  • appropriate changes can be made to take into account the fact that it is a fuel cell to be contained rather than a conventional electric cell.
  • Terminals 4 are provided on an external surface of the pressure containment vessel 3 and one of these terminals 4 is connected to the cathode 101 and the other is connected to the anode 102.
  • the pressure inside the pressure containment vessel 3 is selected to be such as to suppress the evaporation or boiling of electrolyte 103 in the fuel cell.
  • the precise pressure chosen will be a matter of design choice and at least in some circumstances an effective pressure may be determined empirically.
  • the purpose of the fuel cell assembly and in particular the pressurisation given is to enable higher temperature operation of the fuel cell than would normally be the case.
  • fuel cells will generally have a maximum normal operating temperature under normal conditions. This might be specified by the manufacturers or might be empirically determined when the fuel cell is operated at atmospheric pressure. By making use of the present invention, a given fuel cell may be operated at above such a normal operating temperature by virtue of the electrolyte boiling and evaporation suppression that is achieved.
  • the fuel cell assembly shown is a downhole assembly for use downhole in a well where there are high ambient temperatures.
  • the assembly might, for example, form part of a downhole tool used to measure temperature and pressure.
  • the fuel cell would then be used to power the measuring electronics and a signal transmission and reception system.

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  • General Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
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Abstract

A method of operating a fuel cell (101, 102, 103) comprising at least one (5) electrolyte based element (103). The method comprises the steps of locating the fuel cell in a downhole environment and whilst the fuel cell is in the downhole environment suppressing at least one of boiling and evaporation of electrolyte in the element by subjecting the element to a pressure in excess of atmospheric pressure. The fuel cell (101, 102, 103) is disposed in a pressure containment (10) vessel (3) which is pressurised to say 3 to 6 bar.

Description

Operating Fuel Cells
This invention relates to the operation of fuel cells, particularly in pipeline systems of the type used in the oil and gas industry. The invention is particularly relevant in situations where fuel cells are exposed to high temperature environments.
In the oil and gas industry there is often a need to power electronics or other equipment in situations where the ambient temperature is significantly above normal climatic temperatures. One such situation is downhole in a well, where the ambient temperature might be a hundred to a few hundred degrees centigrade due to geothermal effects. Such "high temperature" environments have a detrimental effect on the operation of devices including electrolyte. It has been observed by the applicant that the electrolyte in batteries or capacitors, can have a tendency to boil or evaporate at an accelerated rate. These effects can cause catastrophic failure or impaired performance such as accelerated self discharge. In the case of at least some types of fuel cells similar problems can be expected.
It is an object of this invention to provide a way to increase the temperature at which a given type of electrolyte based fuel cell can be operated.
According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of operating a fuel cell comprising at least one electrolyte based element, the method comprising the step of subjecting the element to a pressure in excess of atmospheric pressure to suppress boiling and/or evaporation of electrolyte.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of operating a fuel cell comprising at least one electrolyte based element, the method comprising the steps of disposing the element in a pressure containment vessel and pressurising the vessel to suppress the boiling and/or evaporation of electrolyte.
Preferably the pressure in the vessel is in excess of atmospheric pressure, at least during operation.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a fuel cell assembly comprising a vessel within which is disposed at least one electrolyte based element wherein the vessel is arranged to be pressurised to a pressure in excess of atmospheric pressure to suppress the boiling and/or evaporation of electrolyte.
Preferably the vessel is a pressure containment vessel. Preferably the pressure containment vessel is pressurised to a pressure in excess of atmospheric pressure, at least during operation.
Methods and assemblies of the present invention enable the effective operation of electrolyte based fuel cells at higher temperatures than would otherwise be the case.
The pressure to which the element (or each element) is subjected may be chosen to give the desired effect in electrolyte boiling/evaporation suppression. The pressure is preferably in the order of 3 to 6 bar. The pressure containment vessel may be filled with any suitable fluid to provide the desired pressure, examples include air, nitrogen and oil. The pressure containment vessel preferably comprises at least one bi-directional pressure seal to seal the interior of the vessel against the surroundings. A bi-directional pressure seal is one arranged to provide a seal whether the external pressure is greater or smaller than the pressure in the containment vessel.
It is currently preferred to subject the electrolyte based element to pressure by pressurising a sealed pressure containment vessel. This will typically be done during manufacture or assembly and before installation. However, in alternatives the element may be subjected to pressure by exposure to the ambient pressure. It will be appreciated that in downhole situations, not only is the temperature high but there is also high, ie well above atmospheric, pressure. It is envisaged that the element might be exposed directly or indirectly to the ambient pressure. Means may be provided such that although the pressure experienced by the element is due to ambient pressure, the value of the pressure is controlled. In some such cases the pressure to which the element is exposed may be a small fraction of the ambient pressure.
The method may be a pipeline system fuel cell operation method. The method may be a downhole fuel cell operation method. The assembly may be a pipeline system fuel cell assembly. The assembly may be a downhole fuel cell assembly.
Battery assemblies and battery operation methods useful in understanding the invention and an embodiment of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 schematically shows a first battery assembly useful in understanding the invention;
Figure 2 schematically shows a second battery assembly useful in understanding the invention; Figure 3 schematically shows a third battery assembly useful in understanding the invention;
Figure 4 is an end view of battery assembly of the same type as the first battery assembly showing more detail;
Figure 5 is a section on line V-V of the battery assembly shown in Figure 4; Figure 6 is a wiring diagram showing the wiring of the battery assembly shown in Figure 4;
Figure 7 shows the arrangement of connection pins at the end of the battery assembly shown in Figure 4; and
Figure 8 schematically shows a fuel cell assembly embodying the present invention.
The battery based methods and assemblies described below are useful in understanding the invention. It has been appreciated by the applicants that most of the ideas and arrangements discussed are equally applicable to electrolyte based fuel cells.
Figure 1 schematically shows a first battery assembly which comprises a plurality of electrolyte based electric cells 1 surrounded by a battery casing 2 to form a battery pack. The battery pack 1,2 is disposed within a pressure containment vessel 3 which is arranged to be pressurised to a pressure in the range of 3-6 bar. Terminals 4 are provided on the exterior of the pressure containment vessel 3 to allow electrical connection to the battery pack 1,2. The pressure containment vessel 3 is filled with air at a pressure in the desired range during manufacture or assembly. At least one bi-directional seal (not shown) is provided between two parts of the vessel 3 which can be separated to allow the introduction of the cells 1. The battery casing 2 is arranged to allow the cells 1 to be subjected to the pressure in the pressure containment vessel 3. It should be noted, however, that this does not generally call for any modification of the casing 2 of conventionally used batteries.
The battery assembly is intended for use in high temperature environments. In particular, the assembly is intended for use in pipeline systems used in the oil and gas industry. Moreover the assembly is particularly suited for use in downhole locations in wells. Typically the assembly will be used in conjunction with other components as part of a downhole tool. Such a tool might for example be used in the communication of data between the downhole location and the surface. In such a case the cells would provide the energy required to receive signals and transmit signals to the surface. Other examples of equipment for which batteries are used as a power supply downhole, include data loggers, pressure and temperature sensors, drilling guidance and control systems and mud pulsing telemetry systems.
Subjecting electrolyte based cells 1 to increased pressure allows the cells 1 to be operated at a higher temperature than would otherwise be the case because the boiling or evaporation of electrolyte is suppressed.
The type of cells used may be chosen to suit circumstances. In some existing systems of the applicant using conventional battery assemblies, the downhole conditions have necessitated the use of high temperature tolerant lithium based cells. However, with the present battery assembly it has been shown possible to use cheaper, alkaline batteries (in place of the lithium cells) at temperatures of 110 degrees centigrade where the pressure in the containment vessel 3 is 5 bar. It is also suspected that at this temperature, the pressure could be reduced somewhat below 5 bar. In some situations, at least some of the desired pressure may be realised automatically by virtue of the fluid pressure increasing with temperature. The fluid used might be selected to enhance this effect.
In some cases it might be desired to use the present battery assembly with lithium cells to improve their performance. These lithium cells might be of a cheaper, less temperature tolerant, type. In general, any electrolyte based cell may benefit from being operated in an assembly of the present type. Rechargeable as well as primary cells can be used.
Whilst in the above assembly, the cells 1 and battery casing 2 are disposed in a separate pressure containment vessel 3, it is envisaged that in a specially produced battery pack, the battery casing might itself act as the pressure containment vessel.
Figure 2 shows a second battery assembly which is similar to the first assembly shown in Figure 1, with corresponding elements being given the same reference numerals. The second battery assembly differs from the first in that an electronics/equipment module 5 is disposed within the pressure containment vessel 3. Thus in this case rather than terminals being provided on the exterior of the vessel 3, the electronics/equipment 5 which requires the power to be supplied by the cells 1 is disposed in the same pressure vessel as the cells 1. This arrangement serves to protect the electronics/equipment 5 from the environment without the provision of a separate vessel. However, such an arrangement is of course only practical where the electronics/equipment can operate under the pressure required to give the desired improvement in cell temperature tolerance. On the other hand there is the advantage that any other electrolyte based components in the electronics/equipment may equally benefit from the increased pressure. In at least some instances the fluid chosen to provide pressure in the vessel 3 should be selected to avoid damage to silicon components - Nitrogen is a good choice in this regard.
Figure 3 schematically shows a third battery assembly which is similar to the first two battery assemblies, again the same reference numerals are used to indicate corresponding elements. However, in this case, the cells 1 are provided in a vessel 3a which is not a pressure containment vessel. Rather in this case the vessel 3a is arranged to allow ambient pressure to act on the cells 1 within the casing 2. The suppression of electrolyte boiling and evaporation may thus be achieved without the need for a sealed pressurised vessel. However, such an assembly will be of limited application, at least in wells, because of the very high pressures which typically exist in the downhole environment. Where there is a very high ambient pressure, there is a risk that any small void in the battery could give rise to distortion or damage to the cell, battery or casing. Another possibility which is envisaged is using the ambient pressure in a more controlled way to apply pressure to the cells 1.
Figures 4 to 7 show, in more detail, a battery assembly of the type shown in Figure 1. The assembly comprises three "double D" cell alkaline battery packs, each comprising two cells 1 and a casing 2. The cells 1 are wired to one another in the way shown in the wiring diagram of Figure 6 and are housed in an aluminium tube (not shown). The aluminium tube containing the six cells 1 is itself housed in generally cylindrical steel pressure containment vessel 3. Figure 7 shows an end view of part of the battery assembly. Seven terminal pins 4 are provided at each end of the battery assembly, one set of these pins can be seen in Figure 7. The wiring of the cells 1, as shown in Figure 6, is such that external connection can be made to the cells 1 via the appropriate pins 4.
In assembly of the battery assembly an end portion of the steel vessel 3 is removed and the aluminium tube containing the ready wired cells 1 is inserted. The end portion is then replaced and the air in the vessel is pressurised to the desired pressure of say 3 bar. A bi-directional seal is provided between the end portion and the remainder of the vessel 3 so that the desired pressure is retained in the vessel 3 whether the external pressure is lower (eg during assembly) or higher (eg in situ downhole) than the internal pressure. Once assembled the battery assembly may be deployed and connected to the electronics/equipment which the cells 1 are to power.
Figure 8 schematically shows a fuel cell assembly embodying the present invention. The fuel cell assembly comprises a cathode 101 and anode 102 and sandwiched between the anode and cathode 101, 102 an electrolyte 103. The anode 101, cathode 102, and electrolyte 103 form the basic elements of a fuel cell. Since fuel cell technology in itself is well known, no further details of the structure of the fuel cell are given herein as they are unnecessary for an understanding of the invention.
The fuel cell is disposed within a pressure containment vessel 3 of the same general type described with reference to Figures 1 to 3 and which may be broadly similar to that described with reference to Figures 4 and 5. Of course, appropriate changes can be made to take into account the fact that it is a fuel cell to be contained rather than a conventional electric cell.
Terminals 4 are provided on an external surface of the pressure containment vessel 3 and one of these terminals 4 is connected to the cathode 101 and the other is connected to the anode 102.
Again, the pressure inside the pressure containment vessel 3 is selected to be such as to suppress the evaporation or boiling of electrolyte 103 in the fuel cell. The precise pressure chosen will be a matter of design choice and at least in some circumstances an effective pressure may be determined empirically.
It will be appreciated that whilst the precise nature of the fuel cell construction is not of great importance, that structure needs to be such that pressure in the pressure containment vessel is allowed to act on the electrolyte 103 in the fuel cell so that it can have the desired boiling and/or evaporation suppressing effect. It can be expected for at least some types of fuel cells that a pressure in the range of 3 to 6 bar within the pressure containment vessel will give useful results.
Similarly to the battery assemblies described above, the purpose of the fuel cell assembly and in particular the pressurisation given is to enable higher temperature operation of the fuel cell than would normally be the case.
It will be appreciated that fuel cells will generally have a maximum normal operating temperature under normal conditions. This might be specified by the manufacturers or might be empirically determined when the fuel cell is operated at atmospheric pressure. By making use of the present invention, a given fuel cell may be operated at above such a normal operating temperature by virtue of the electrolyte boiling and evaporation suppression that is achieved.
The fuel cell assembly shown is a downhole assembly for use downhole in a well where there are high ambient temperatures. The assembly might, for example, form part of a downhole tool used to measure temperature and pressure. The fuel cell would then be used to power the measuring electronics and a signal transmission and reception system.
Many of the constructional considerations and details given above with respect to the battery assemblies apply similarly to the fuel cell assembly.
Particularly, in the case of fuel cells, it is noted that whether a useful increase in operating temperature can be achieved will depend on the construction of the fuel cell and the choice of electrolyte. Thus there may well be fuel cells for which the present method is inappropriate or not useful.

Claims

1. A method of operating a fuel cell comprising at least one electrolyte based element, the method comprising the steps of locating the fuel cell in a downhole environment and whilst the fuel cell is in the downhole environment suppressing at least one of boiling and evaporation of electrolyte in the element by subjecting the element to a pressure in excess of atmospheric pressure.
2. A method according to claim 1 comprising the further step of operating the fuel cell at a temperature in excess of that which would be tolerated by the electrolyte based element if not subjected to a pressure in excess of atmospheric pressure.
3. A method according to claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the electrolyte based element has a specified maximum normal operating temperature for normal operating conditions and the method comprises the step of operating the electrolyte based element at a temperature in excess of said maximum normal operating temperature.
4. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein the fuel cell is located in a downhole environment having a temperature in the range of 100°C to 500°C.
5. A method according to any preceding claim including the steps of disposing the element in a pressure containment vessel and pressurising the vessel to suppress the boiling and/or evaporation of electrolyte.
6. A method according to any preceding claim in which the pressure to which the element is subjected is in the order of 3 to 6 bar.
7. A method according to any preceding claim when dependent on claim 5, in which the pressure containment vessel is filled with one of air, nitrogen and oil to provide the desired pressure.
8. A method according to any preceding claim when dependent on claim 5 in which the pressure containment vessel comprises at least one bi-directional pressure seal to seal the interior of the vessel against the surroundings.
9. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein the element is subjected to pressure by exposure to the ambient pressure.
10. A method according to claim 9 wherein the element is exposed indirectly to the ambient pressure such that although the pressure experienced by the element is due to ambient pressure, the value of the pressure is controlled.
11. A downhole temperature fuel cell assembly comprising a vessel within which is disposed at least one electrolyte based fuel cell element wherein the vessel is arranged to be pressurised to a pressure in excess of atmospheric pressure to suppress at least one of boiling and evaporation of electrolyte in the element and arranged to be subjected to temperatures in excess of a normal operating temperature of the electrolyte based element.
12. A well comprising a downhole high temperature fuel cell assembly according to claim 11 wherein the vessel is pressured to a pressure in excess of atmosphere pressure and the assembly is disposed at a location where the temperature is in excess of that which would be tolerated by the electrolyte based element if at atmospheric pressure.
13. A method of operating a fuel cell comprising at least one electrolyte based element, the method comprising the steps of subjecting the element to a pressure in excess of atmospheric pressure to suppress at least one of boiling and evaporation of electrolyte in the element, and operating the fuel cell at a temperature in excess of that which would be tolerated by the electrolyte based element if not subjected to a pressure in excess of atmospheric pressure.
14. A method of operating a fuel cell comprising at least one electrolyte based element, the method comprising the steps of locating the fuel cell in a downhole environment and whilst the fuel cell is in the downhole environment, subjecting the element to a pressure in excess of atmospheric pressure to suppress at least one of boiling and evaporation of electrolyte in the element and the further step of operating the fuel cell at a temperature in excess of that which would be tolerated by the electrolyte based element if not subjected to a pressure in excess of atmospheric pressure.
PCT/GB2002/004615 2001-10-12 2002-10-10 Operating fuel cells WO2003033862A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GBGB0124589.3A GB0124589D0 (en) 2001-10-12 2001-10-12 Operating electrolyte based components
GB0124589.3 2001-10-12
GB0125518A GB0125518D0 (en) 2001-10-24 2001-10-24 Operating electrolyte based components
GB0125518.1 2001-10-24

Publications (1)

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WO2003033862A1 true WO2003033862A1 (en) 2003-04-24

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Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2014204782A1 (en) * 2013-06-18 2014-12-24 Baker Hughes Incorporated Downhole fuel cell with steam adsorption and pressure compensation
US10731440B2 (en) 2013-06-18 2020-08-04 Baker Hughes, A Ge Company, Llc Downhole fuel cell with steam adsorption and pressure compensation and methods of using same

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US4680240A (en) * 1985-07-19 1987-07-14 Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd. Method for starting fuel cell power systems
US4738904A (en) * 1986-10-14 1988-04-19 Hughes Aircraft Company Low temperature thermoelectrochemical system and method
US5202194A (en) * 1991-06-10 1993-04-13 Halliburton Company Apparatus and method for providing electrical power in a well
US6063515A (en) * 1997-12-22 2000-05-16 Ballard Power Systems Inc. Integrated fuel cell electric power generation system for submarine applications
WO2001091206A2 (en) * 2000-05-17 2001-11-29 Schlumberger Technology Corporation Fuel cell for downhole power systems

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2622339A (en) * 1949-05-16 1952-12-23 Jr John C Hewitt Battery energized well instrument
US4680240A (en) * 1985-07-19 1987-07-14 Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd. Method for starting fuel cell power systems
US4738904A (en) * 1986-10-14 1988-04-19 Hughes Aircraft Company Low temperature thermoelectrochemical system and method
US5202194A (en) * 1991-06-10 1993-04-13 Halliburton Company Apparatus and method for providing electrical power in a well
US6063515A (en) * 1997-12-22 2000-05-16 Ballard Power Systems Inc. Integrated fuel cell electric power generation system for submarine applications
WO2001091206A2 (en) * 2000-05-17 2001-11-29 Schlumberger Technology Corporation Fuel cell for downhole power systems

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2014204782A1 (en) * 2013-06-18 2014-12-24 Baker Hughes Incorporated Downhole fuel cell with steam adsorption and pressure compensation
US9593562B2 (en) 2013-06-18 2017-03-14 Baker Hughes Incorporated Downhole fuel cell with steam adsorption and pressure compensation
US10731440B2 (en) 2013-06-18 2020-08-04 Baker Hughes, A Ge Company, Llc Downhole fuel cell with steam adsorption and pressure compensation and methods of using same
US11280163B2 (en) 2013-06-18 2022-03-22 Baker Hughes Holdings Llc Downhole fuel cell with steam adsorption and pressure compensation

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