Reliable electrical power is necessary for mission-critical
computers and other systems in military and commercial applications. Inclement
weather, natural disasters, and other events can disable the local power grid.
When grid power is unavailable, an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) can keep
key systems powered and operational. However, these systems are generally
expensive, inefficient, inadequate, and providing only a small amount of power
for a limited time.
Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a
highly efficient fuel-cell based true UPS. Combining proven, reliable battery
technology with fuel-cell driven charging and advanced electronic control, this
UPS can operate for significantly longer time periods than current solutions. It
eliminates the need for multiple voltage conversions and offers substantially
higher system efficiencies than other fuel-cell solutions – better than 90%
system efficiency overall. This system produces stable, reliable DC power and
comes online instantly when needed. An efficient, powerful true UPS solution is
now available.
Development
This fuel-cell based UPS is up and running on the Arizona
State University East campus. Significant testing has been completed, and the
results have been published. At this time, AzTE is seeking potential partners
and licensees for this technology.
Potential Applications
- Desktop Computers - The typical AC power supply is easily
replaced with a wide voltage input DC supply. This is especially well suited
for enterprise-wide deployment where maintaining power for numerous computers
is critical.
- Medical Devices
- Other Critical Electronics
Benefits and Advantages
- Longer Life – Reliable backup power can be provided for
at least 60% longer.
- High Efficiency – The system eliminates the need for AC /
DC inverters and DC / DC converters, allowing high-efficiency operation.
- Spike / Sag Free Power – The output of the UPS is a
smooth, stable DC voltage free of damaging spikes and sags.
- No Downtime – The true UPS system immediately picks up
the load when the grid power fails.
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