Nexa® Training System
The Nexa® Training System is based on an industrial fuel cell system (PEM technology) from our partner Ballard Power Systems. We improved the fuel cell module by converting it into a learning product to make the processes in the fuel cell system fully transparent and to illustrate the functions of a real fuel cell system.
The high output of this hydrogen-operated fuel cell system motivates students to learn more about the safe handling of hydrogen. All electrical and gas engineering connections can be made clearly and safely on the front panels.
The system was developed especially for use at universities, technical colleges and vocational schools, to enable advanced experiments, e. g., on characteristic curves, efficiencies, load profiles and design criteria for fuel cell systems.
The experiments provide valuable practical knowledge on the design of the hydrogen storage canister, optimum efficiency and output, the design of the power electronics and the size of the batteries needed for hybrid fuel cell/battery powered systems.
A highlight is the special applications that can be developed. In hands-on training, for example, students can parameterize and simulate engine test stations or emergency power supplies – and discover that Nexa® Power Module makes more efficient use of the fuel than any combustion engine. The LabView-based software included in the scope of delivery allows not only parameterization of the electronic load, but also the transparent display of all current, voltage, output, power consumption and efficiency data.
In order to properly supervise the experiments conducted with the Nexa® Training System, the teaching concept for the fuel cell has been tailored to the requirements of modern universities and vocational schools. Having cooperated with universities for many years, Heliocentris knows what instructors need to make their instruction as efficient as the fuel cell itself. Detailed documentation, easy set-up and operation and high safety standards are therefore standard, as with all Heliocentris products.
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Areas of Application / Subject Areas
The Nexa® Training System is especially suitable for lab experiments with the goal of teaching application-related knowledge of hydrogen and fuel cells. It can be used in university practicums and in vocational schools. The primary fields are electronic engineering, energy engineering, power supply engineering and process engineering.
The product comprises of modules mounted in a 19" rack (included) and is available with three equipment options. For the available versions, please refer to the product data sheet:
- 19" Fuel Cell Module: Includes the 1.2 kW Nexa® Power Module from Ballard Power Systems. The included pressure reducer enables connection to standard compressed gas cylinders.
- 19" Power Management Module: Includes the complete power management components of the fuel cell system, including On/Off switch and emergency shut-off, DC converter, load regulator and inverter.
- 19" PC Module with Data Recording: The computer and the measuring technology are also mounted in the 19" rack. The LCD monitor is side-mounted on a convenient swivel arm.
- Documentation and Software: Ring binder with set-up, operating and experiment instructions, in addition to LabView-based data measuring and visualization software
Optional:
- 19" Metal Hydride Storage Module: The convenient and mobile version for hydrogen supply. One filling is sufficient for ca. 1-2 days of operation in practicums. Safe refilling through standard compressed gas cylinders.
- 19“ Electronic Load Module: Enables controlled loads to the fuel cell system. Programmable in constant current, power or resistance mode.
- Easy and transparent set-up of an industrial fuel cell system
- Students learn "step by step" how to set up a fuel cell system and to understand and examine it based on modules.
- Stringent quality standards: robust design and high safety standard
- All components needed for operation of the system are included (except hydrogen)
With the Nexa® Training System you can conduct numerous lab experiments. Experiment instructions for the Nexa® Training System are currently being prepared. Upon completion, the instructions will be sent to all customers who have already purchased the system. The learning system is ideal for the following experiments:
- Current, voltage and output characteristic curves
- System efficiency and efficiencies of individual components
- Optimization of the power consumption of the fuel system
- Examination of various AC consumers
- Design of a fuel cell system: influence of battery capacity and type
Client Testimonial
"Using the Nexa Training System at CESR enhances a plurality of possibilities for research areas. Additionally, our students highly benefit from having the opportunity to underpin their theoretical knowledge on fuel cells with hands on research."
Prof. David Gao, Tenessee Tech University, USA
