Compact open cathode feed system for PEMFCs. (15th February 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ling, C.Y.; Cao, H.; Chen, Y.; Han, M.; Birgersson, E.
• Is Part Of: Applied energy. Volume 164(2016)
• Page Start: 670
• Page End: 675
• Publication Date: 2016-02-15
• Subjects: PEMFC -- Cathode fan system -- Air flow distribution -- Temperature distribution -- Performance; Power (Mechanics) -- Periodicals; Energy conservation -- Periodicals; Energy conversion -- Periodicals; 621.042
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apenergy.2015.12.012
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0306-2619

Abstract

Highlights: Two different modes of feeding air into an open cathode PEMFC stack were studied. Drawing air, as opposed to blowing air, into the stack results in more uniform air velocities entering the stack. The uniform inlet velocities help maintain a more even temperature distribution field. A 16% increase in power output is observed by drawing air into the stack. Abstract: The open cathode design is commonly adopted for small sized proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) as it allows for smaller footprint and thus, higher power density. Axial fans are typically used to supply oxygen in these PEMFC systems. Apart from controlling stoichiometry, they also play a critical role in regulating internal temperature. This suggests that its location could have significant impact on fuel cell performance. In this work, the location of the fan is varied from the front to the rear in order to blow air or draw air into the stack respectively. The latter configuration reduces the non-uniformity in temperature and velocity by around 2 and 4 times respectively, resulting in a 16% increase in overall stack performance.