Fuel cells for powering well stimulation equipment

Abstract

In accordance with presently disclosed embodiments, a system and method for using fuel cells to generate electricity for powering well stimulation equipment (e.g., high pressure hydraulic pumping units) at a well stimulation site are provided. The fuel cells may be coupled to the stimulation equipment via a DC/AC converter and, in some embodiments, via a variable frequency drive (VFD). The fuel cells may be arranged in a fuel cell stack that is used to generate electricity to power various electrical devices (e.g., electric motors) on the equipment. The fuel cells generally operate at higher efficiencies than is available through the use of diesel engines. In addition, the fuel cells may require less frequent refueling and provide a more centrally located area for refueling, lower emissions, and quieter operations than are currently available using diesel engines.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.