A fuel cell is a galvanic cell that converts the chemical energy of a continuously supplied fuel and oxidant into electrical energy. The underlying principle is an electrochemical process often referred to as “cold combustion.” It can be considered the opposite process to electrolysis. A fuel cell does not store energy; instead, it acts as an energy converter that generates electrical power. The required energy is supplied externally via the fuel.
SFC Fuel Cells directly convert the fuel in the fuel cartridge into electric power. Thanks to this direct conversion, which takes place without moving parts and quietly, they are extremely efficient, clean and environmentally friendly.
The electrochemical process generates only a small amount of waste heat of about 40 °C.
Yes, many users operate SFC Fuel Cells in combination with solar systems. The fuel cell automatically switches on when solar power is insufficient to meet demand.
SFC Fuel Cells charge batteries fully automatically and are compatible with various battery types, including military batteries such as the BB-2590. For specific compatibility questions, please contact our sales team.
No. As long as a fuel cartridge is connected, the integrated deep discharge protection activates automatically—even when the system is switched off—to protect the battery. An additional external deep discharge protection device should be installed between the consumers and the battery.
In addition to water and CO₂, trace amounts of methanol or methanol by-products may be present in the exhaust gas. However, these are well below legally permitted limits. Important: The exhaust gas must always be directed outside. Inhalation or consumption of condensate water is harmful to health. The exhaust gas does not contain carbon monoxide (CO) or nitrogen oxides (NOx).
SFC Fuel Cells comply with the strictest safety and quality requirements including those regulations that are relevant for installation in vehicles. They are the first fuel cells in the world to bear the ECE-R10 (Installation and Operation in Motor Vehicles), CE and “Safety-tested, production-monitored fuel cell system” certifications by TÜV Süd. They are also tested according to MIL-STD (military standards).
Safe operation is guaranteed within an ambient temperature range from -20°C to +50°C. For applications in more extreme conditions, please contact us.
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Application areas
Special and task forces require a portable power supply to dependably provide their technical equipment with power throughout the full term of their deployment. Until now, this has involved a tremendous carrying weight and major logistical efforts. With the SFC energy network consisting of the SFC JENNY 600S and the SFC Power Manager 3G, a weight savings of up to 80 % is achieved on a 72-hour deployment.
Yes, for surveillance missions and covert operations, SFC Energy supplies fuel cells for vehicle integration. These systems provide a reliable power supply to electronic devices in emergency, command and multipurpose vehicles. Their silent operation minimises the risk of being detected based on the sound and heat signature. These fuel cells are available as military ruggedised (SFC EMILY 3000) as well as industrial devices (EFOY Pro) for official use.
Yes, semi-stationary and stationary surveillance systems are often used where there is no mains connection. Sometimes, surveillance systems must be used covertly. This poses a challenge to the self-sufficiency of a power supply. SFC offers a power supply for stationary and undercover use of surveillance applications and law enforcement authorities. SFC Fuel Cells reliably supply power for weeks without a mains connection or the need for user intervention – silent and, if required, undercover, vandalism-proof and even for burying.
The benefits at a glance:
An essential factor is the quiet operation of the solutions, virtually without detectable heat nor noise signatures. In addition, fuel cells are very user friendly and safe to handle. They are simple plug-and-play solutions.
Fuel cartridges
At just 8.4 kg, a 10-litre SFC fuel cartridge boasts an energy content of 11.1 kWh. To deliver the same amount of energy, around 280 kg of lead-gel batteries would be needed.
One litre corresponds to an energy capacity of 1.1 kWh. With a continuous consumption of 25 W (600 Wh/day) without an additional energy source such as solar power, the following applies:
Yes, SFC fuel cartridges are designed for the most stringent safety requirements. Additionally, the fuel cartridges are approved and marked for road, sea and air transport.
Consumption depends on the power consumer. Currently, consumption is 0.9 litres of methanol per kilowatt hour.
Yes, the fuel cartridge can easily be changed while the device is in operation. The cartridge is designed so that the user is never at risk of coming into contact with its contents.
Watch the video to see how easy it is to change the fuel cartridge. To the video
SFC JENNY
Yes, the fuel cartridge can easily be changed while the device is in operation. The cartridge is designed so that the user is never at risk of coming into contact with its contents.
Watch the video to see how easy it is to change the fuel cartridge. To the video
Thanks to the high energy density of the methanol fuel cartridges, the SFC JENNY 600S reduces the number of spare batteries needed, significantly lowering the soldier’s carrying load. Three to four 350 ml methanol fuel cartridges provide enough power for 72 hours of deployment, saving up to 80% of battery weight. This allows the soldier to carry essential batteries while freeing up space for additional food, water, or ammunition, or alternatively, to extend the mission duration.
With the fuel cartridge, the JENNY 600S weighs only about 2.2 kg, making it easy to carry in a backpack.
Yes, this is generally possible with the use of suitable cables. For questions about specific requirements, please contact our sales team. Contact
SFC EMILY
At full power, the SFC EMILY 3000 emits CO2 approximately corresponding to what a human breathes when playing sports.
The SFC EMILY 3000 takes care of the on-board power supply for stationary vehicles without a running engine and is connected directly to the on-board battery. Electrical peak loads are compensated directly by the battery, while the SFC EMILY 3000 continuously monitors this and, if necessary, recharges independently. In addition to the applications in and on vehicles, which are increasingly in demand, the SFC EMILY 3000 is used to supply power for mobile and stationary defence applications. It is suitable for remote use and as a battery charger in the field. Remotely from the vehicle, it can therefore power applications such as radios, radar systems and at the same time recharge several batteries.
When selecting the installation space, sufficient supply air and removal of waste heat/exhaust air must be ensured. Please also check that there is enough space for the fuel cartridge and the device itself.
Yes, for surveillance missions and covert operations, SFC Energy supplies fuel cells for vehicle integration. These systems provide a reliable power supply to electronic devices in emergency, command and multipurpose vehicles. Their silent operation minimises the risk of being detected based on the sound and heat signature. These fuel cells are available as military ruggedised (SFC EMILY 3000) as well as industrial devices (EFOY Pro) for official use.
Yes, SFC Fuel Cells are approved for operation in motor vehicles. Leading vehicle manufacturers install the devices in vehicles ex works.
Yes, the DuoCartSwitch is used to connect up to two fuel cartridges with the EMILY 3000. The DuoCartSwitch is available as an additional accessory. It has to be activated before use. You can receive more information in the operating instructions for the DuoCartSwitch or contact us directly.
SFC Power Manager
The SFC Power Manager 3G features two power input/output ports (500 W), two bidirectional battery charging ports (65 W), and additional battery and device outputs (65 W).
The SFC Power Manager is compatible with a wide range of military devices, including radios, batteries, and laptops. For further details or specific requirements, please contact our sales team.
The SFC Power Manager 3G enables users to utilise all available energy sources in the field—such as hybrid batteries, solar panels, vehicle power, and fuel cells—to power devices and charge batteries.
The energy network enables multiple devices to be powered efficiently and at the same time. In addition to the SFC JENNY 600S fuel cell and the SFC Power Manager 3G, this system includes a powerful hybrid battery, a foldable solar panel, and various cables for connecting different electronic devices.
No, SFC Fuel Cells can be used without the SFC Power Manager 3G. However, the Power Manager significantly expands the range of possible applications.
Yes, the SFC Power Manager 3G can also be used without a fuel cell as a voltage converter and energy distributor. It can intelligently distribute vehicle power to different electrical loads.