850 FUEL CELL TEST SYSTEM
Combining a computer-controlled instrument with fuel handling hardware in an integrated bench-top unit, the 850 uses the proven 890 as the basis for the electronic load design. The powerful FuelCell5® software package is included for controlling station operation and ZView® is included for impedance analysis.
ADVANCED FEATURES
The 850 Fuel Cell Test System is engineered for researchers who demand precision, flexibility, and ease of use in a compact design:
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Multi‑range precision testing — Supports multiple current load ranges (5/25/50 A, 10/50/100 A, and the new 12/62/125 A configuration; 100 W, 20 V) for flexible testing of single‑cell or short‑stack fuel cells.
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User-friendly FuelCell5® software — Advanced, computer-controlled interface simplifies experimentation and data management.
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Robust humidification system — Temperature‑controlled 316L stainless steel humidifiers plus heated gas lines ensure consistent dew‑point control.
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Automated gas handling — Computer‑controlled anode and cathode mass flow, N₂ purge, and pressure‑loss detection allow for reliable, repeatable results.
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Accurate diagnostics — Offers current, voltage, or power control with IR‑free voltage readings via Current Interrupt and high‑impedance reference channels for detailed cell and half‑cell data.
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Safety & automation features — Direct USB connectivity, automatic humidifier water fill, pressure and water‑level alarms, and emergency shutdown ensure safe, unattended operation.
WANT MORE POWER?
For higher power demands or larger stacks, explore Scribner’s 840 Fuel Cell Test System—delivering up to 1 kW / 500 A—built on similar proven architecture and capabilities.
SPECIFICATIONS
ELECTRICAL
- Load Current Range Configurations –
5/25/50A, 10/50/100A, 12/62/125A - Maximum Load Power – 100W
- Minimum Load Resistance – <2 mΩ (100mV @ 50A at load terminals)
- Current Resolution – 1 mA or 10 mA per software current range selection
- Current Accuracy – 0.3% of full-scale current of selected range
- Max. Whole Cell Voltage – 20V
- Max. Reference Electrode Voltage – 9.999V
- Voltage Accuracy – ±3 mV ±0.3% of reading
- Voltage & Current Data Update Rate – 100 Hz
- Whole Cell Sense Input Resistance – > 35kΩ
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Reference Electrode Input Resistance – > 10⁹ Ω
PROCESS CONTROL
- Wetted Materials – All 316SS
- Fittings – Swagelok® fittings and heated lines
- Mass Flow Control – Software controlled Anode & Cathode
- Purge Control – Automatic N₂ for Anode & Cathode
- Humidifiers – Dual sparger-type, passivated 316SS, 360 W heaters per bottle
- Temperature Control – (3) Cell, Anode humidifier, Cathode humidifier
- Cell Thermocouple – Type T or Type K
- Temperature Range – Ambient to 99.0ºC; Optional: 120ºC
- Temp Measurement Accuracy – ±0.25% of span, ±1 least significant digit
PHYSICAL
- Operating Temperature – 5 – 35 ºC
- Power Source – 120(10A) or 220–240(5A) VAC 50/60 Hz
- Enclosure Type – Single bench top unit
- Size & Weight – 46 x 28 x 48 cm (18 x 11 x 19 in) & 23 kg (50 lbs)
SAFETY
- Alarms – Gas supply pressures (3), Humidifier water levels (2), External (1), System alarm output (1)
- Fail Safe Design – N₂ purge on alarm condition
- Continuous Monitoring – E-stop, voltage, current, temperature, gas contamination & external signals
INTERNAL OPTIONS
FREQUENCY RESPONSE ANALYZER (FRA)
Adds Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) and High-Frequency Resistance (HFR) measurements for whole cell, or half-cell, diagnostics, monitoring membrane performance over time and under varying operating conditions from 1mHz to 10kHz.
HUMIDIFIER BY-PASS
Automated delivery between dry and humidified gas to the Fuel Cell to enable Accelerated Lifetime Durability Testing and Predictive Failure Analysis of the membrane.
Software controlled Humidifier By-Pass for flowing Reformate / Contaminate Gases, while avoiding humidifier contamination, and operating a stack or cell that doesn’t require humidified gas.
HUMIDIFIER AUTO DRAIN/FILL
Rapid Due Point Reduction to reduce total testing time and automating humidifier water maintenance by draining the system prior to offline operation.
PRODUCT DOCUMENTS
ACCESSORY DOCUMENTS
- Durability testing with 850, 885 PSTAT and Auto MultiGas
- 850 Humidifier Water Filling Explained
- Automated crossover and ECSA testing with Scribner 850 Series Test Systems
- Using an 850, 885 PSTAT and BekkTech BT-112 Conductivity Cell for in-plane membrane resistance and conductivity measurement
- 850 Dew Point Performance
- Papers Citing Scribner Fuel Cell Test Systems – Updated: 2020
- Burp Valve Control B
- Cell Heater Fuses and Troubleshooting
- Comms Errors
- Configuring Temp Controller for 1st decimal mode
- DI Water Tank Regulator Adjustment
- Installing FuelDual for PEM and MeOH Operation
- MFC Troubleshooting
- Minimum Load Resistance
- Troubleshooting Basic Fuel Cell Problems
PRECISION IN THE DETAILS
Enhance your lab setup with accessories and cell fixtures designed for accuracy, repeatability, and ease of use. These add-ons ensure optimal performance, tailored configurations, and seamless integration with your core system—because every detail matters.
DMFC & LIQUID/GAS
Our liquid-gas fuel cell fixture is ideal for liquid fueled cells such as Direct Methanol and Formate Fuel Cell applications. All wetted components of the liquid side are non-metallic and highly chemical resistant. Interchangeable end plates save money, convert back to PEM/AEM with one part.
RFB
Our Redox Flow Cell Test Fixture is specifically designed for use with our 857 Redox Flow Cell Test System. All non-metallic flow paths are made with non-corrosive, chemically resistant plastics only. We offer multiple assembly configurations to allow for various gap, electrode type, and thickness.
CUSTOMIZE YOUR 850: ACCESSORIES FOR SMARTER FUEL-CELL TESTING
Optimize your test environment with modular accessories engineered for seamless integration with the 850 Fuel Cell Test System. These tools support advanced diagnostics, automated workflows, and scalable configurations for high-performance fuel cell research.
STAND-ALONE HUMIDIFER
The stand-alone humidifier helps to prevent contamination of the main test system plumbing, has integrated heated gas transfer lines, automatic water fill and all stainless steel construction. Based on a proven humidifier design, this system is an excellent choice for stable and accurate dew point control of an additional gas.
YOUR PARTNER IN SCIENCE
Scribner offers a comprehensive range of services designed to support the full lifecycle of your electrochemical test systems. From setup and training to maintenance, calibration, and ongoing support, we’re here to ensure your research runs smoothly and efficiently.
