Fuel processor for fuel cell systems

A fuel cell system comprising:

• a) a fuel cell stack:
• and
• b) a fuel processor assembly coupled to the stack for producing a reformate for consumption by the stack, wherein the fuel processor assembly includes:
• i) an annular reformer,
• ii) a thermal conduction mass coupled to the annular reformer,
• iii) a vaporizer coupled to the thermal conduction mass,
• iv) a combustion heater adjacent the thermal conduction mass for burning a portion of the reformate to provide heat to the thermal conduction mass during normal operation, and
• v) at least one heating element coupled to the thermal conduction mass for providing heat to the thermal conduction mass during a cold start:
• wherein combustion gases from the combustion heater circulate through the thermal conduction mass to heat the thermal conduction mass,
• wherein the thermal conduction mass has a central passage aligned with a central passage of the annular reformer, wherein the combustion gases pass through the central passages, and
• further comprising a feedback tube mounted within the central passages for providing the portion of the reformate to the combustion heater and directing flow of the combustion gases therefrom.

A fuel processor assembly coupled to a fuel cell stack for producing a reformate for consumption by the fuel cell stack, wherein the fuel processor assembly comprises:

• a) an annular core having a thermal conduction mass for conducting heat;
• b) an annular reformer surrounding and supported by the annular core;
• and
• c) a vaporizer surrounding and supported by the annular core;
• and
• wherein the vaporizer is a coil that wraps around the annular reformer.