850 fuel cell test system
Elevate your fuel cell research with the 850 Multi‑Range Fuel Cell Test System: precision, automation, and safety—packed in a compact, adaptable platform.
As a complete test station for operation and measurement of PEM/AEM/DMFC Fuel Cells, the 850 is ideal for single-cell and short-stack fuel cell research and university programs.
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
Inside the System
SPECIFICATIONS
- 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
- Reference Electrode Input Resistance – > 10⁹ Ω
- 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)
- 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
- 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
Included with every Scribner is a set of parts and tools for installing the instrument. Specifically, each 850 includes;
Tools
- 2 wrenches, 1/2″ & 9/16″, for common fittings
Document Folder
- USB drive with documentation and software
- Calibration information
Cabling
- Country specific power cords bringing wall power to unit
- USB cable connecting Unit to Computer
- Voltage sense cable
Extra Parts
- Country specific power cords bringing wall power to unit
- USB cable connecting Unit to Computer
- Voltage sense cable
INTERNAL OPTIONS
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.
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.
Rapid Due Point Reduction to reduce total testing time and automating humidifier water maintenance by draining the system prior to offline operation.
PRODUCT DOCUMENTS
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.
PEM & AEM
DMFC & LIQUID/GAS
RFB
Our gas-gas fixture offers superior performance for both Proton Exchange Membrane & Anion Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell applications, making it the ideal choice for a wide range of experimental needs.
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.
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 science
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.
YOUR PARTNER IN SCIENCE, FROM START TO BREAKTHROUGH
Turnkey Consumables & Integrations
Scribner sources essential consumables and compatible equipment—membranes, sensors, and more—to simplify and support your research workflow.
Professional Installation & Training
Our expert electrochemists provide on-site system setup, commissioning, and user training to ensure confident, efficient operation from day one.
Service, Repair & Calibration
From fast tech support to on-site calibration and factory repairs, Scribner keeps your system running smoothly with reliable service and stocked parts.
Ongoing Support & Warranty Protection
Stay current with software updates, application notes, and optional extended warranties for long-term peace of mind.
TRUSTED BY PUBLISHED RESEARCHERS WORLDWIDE
let’s power your next discovery together
Whether you’re evaluating a new system, troubleshooting in the lab, or exploring collaboration opportunities, our team is ready to help — wherever you are in the world. Fill out the form below and let’s talk innovation!