Optimization of Anode Purging for a Metal Foam Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell

• Main Authors: Tseng-lin Hsueh, 薛曾霖
• Other Authors: Chung-jen Tseng
• Format: Others
• Language: zh-TW
• Published: 2016
• Online Access: http://ndltd.ncl.edu.tw/handle/39492962531274167009

碩士 === 國立中央大學 === 機械工程學系在職專班 === 104 === The purpose of this study is to find an appropriated solution to enhance the management capacity of the gas fuel cell system based on a design of anode purging of metal foam proton exchange membrane fuel cell, where the properties of metal foam and the average gas flow path of the fuel cell can improve fuel cell performance. After setting up a solenoid valve at the anode outlet of the fuel cell, it is achievable to implement the control of hydrogen by cyclically purging gas management. The effects of purging parameters on fuel cell performance will be discussed in the article. Several phenomena can be observed from the experiments. First, uniform flow distribution can be obtained by using metal foam and the improved inlet design. Secondly, it can increase the utilization rate of reaction area and reactant gas. Even with low gas flow rate, the fuel cell still has excellent performance. Thirdly, for gas management on the anode side, it is known that gas utilization rate is 100% when hydrogen gas stays in the fuel cell and the solenoid valve closed. Fourthly, back pressure generated from the higher gas pressure can rise hydrogen concentration and strengthen gas ability to pass gas diffusion layer. In addition, it can remove the reaction product by opening solenoid valve for keeping fuel cell working stably for a long time. It is found that the increase of humidification and cell temperature are directly proportional to the increase of purging cycle during the experiment. Also, it should shorten purging cycle for increasing the stoichiometric ratio. The strategy of purging cycle helps to improve stable fuel cell performance for a long time, and it prevents the degradation of the fuel cell from unappropriated operating.