The German communication technology specialist Meier-NT uses the SFC A50 fuel cell as emergency power supply for mains operated water level sensor systems and to power off-grid sensor systems at rivers in Saxony, Germany. 

For the first application the SFC A50 fuel cell’s UPS (uninterruptible power supply) functionality is especially valuable as it maintains power even if a station’s regular power supply breaks down, as was the case, for example, during the 2002 floods in the region. 

In the second application the fuel cell is combined with a 120 Wp PV system to ensure reliable operation of the measuring sensors also at night, in bad weather or when covered with snow. 

The major advantage of the fuel cell over classic batteries is the enormous increase in capacity they offer, while at the same time tremendously reducing volume and weight: A 10 liter fuel cartridge has a capacity of 800 Ah and, at a weight of only 20 lbs (9 kg), replaces 550 lbs (250 kg) batteries! Zero maintenance, simple use and durable, stable operation are additional customer benefits.

In the water level sensor systems developed by Meier-NT data logging sensors continuously measure a river’s water level. The results are then transmitted to the control centre via GSM data transfer for evaluation. Meier-NT currently operates six fuel cell powered systems, additional installations are in preparation.

“The SFC fuel cell prolongs the maintenance cycle of our systems. Not only are we now sure to collect reliable data even when the weather is bad or when the solar panels are covered by snow. The 10 l methanol cartridges also enable four months maintenance free operation of the whole system“, says Heiko Meier, owner of Meier-NT.

„Systems to provide early warning in the context of impending natural disasters are becoming more and more important, as the latest floods in Bavaria and the US have clearly demonstrated. Many of these stations, however, are located far away from the energy grid and photovoltaic systems alone are just not reliable enough for these important applications“, says Pieter Bots, Chief Marketing & Sales Officer of SFC. “We are very proud that our products are able to play a key role in situations where human lives are at stake.”

Methanol cartridges for the SFC A50 are available in three sizes: 5 l (9.5 lbs, 400 Ah), 10 l (20 lbs, 800 Ah) und 28 l (55 lbs, 2,200 Ah).