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The fuel cell stack design principle arises from the accommodation of the performance criteria for the application at hand, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. In addition to considerations for fuel cell design itself, these performance criteria of a fuel cell stack include factors such as power output, efficiency, and response time.
Arising from basic prerequisites for the design of a fuel cell system, the number of fuel cells will determine the power output of the stack. A larger number of fuel cells will result in higher power output, but this will also increase the size and cost of the stack.
The optimum number of fuel cells in a stack will depend on the balance between power output and cost. Cell and stack design are thus very much dependent on each other. A good stack should also be designed to be reliable, with robust components and fail-safe features to ensure consistent and stable operation.
Depending on the fundamental fuel cell operating principle employed, a PEM fuel cell stack design will of course differ from a solid oxide fuel cell stack design.
Fuel cell stack performance criteria
The performance criteria of a fuel cell stack will depend on the specific requirements of the application. Some common performance criteria for fuel cell stacks include power output, efficiency, response time, durability and reliability.
- The power output of a fuel cell stack refers to the amount of electrical energy that the stack is able to generate. The power output of the stack should be sufficient to meet the load requirements of the application.
- The efficiency of a fuel cell stack refers to the amount of electrical energy produced by the stack compared to the amount of chemical energy stored in the fuel. Higher efficiency stacks are able to convert a greater proportion of chemical energy into electrical energy, which can result in lower fuel consumption and lower operating costs.
- The response time of a fuel cell stack refers to the time it takes for the stack to reach full power after being shut down. Faster response times can be beneficial in emergency situations where a quick response is required.
- The durability of a fuel cell stack refers to its ability to withstand the wear and tear of operation over time. The stack should be designed to have a long service life and to minimize the need for maintenance.
- The reliability of a fuel cell stack refers to its ability to operate consistently and reliably over time. The stack should be designed with robust components and fail-safe features to ensure consistent and stable operation.
Performance optimization strategies
There are several strategies that can be used to increase the performance of a fuel cell stack. These strategies may involve improving the performance of individual fuel cells, optimizing the design of the stack, or using advanced materials or techniques.
- Improving fuel cell performance: The performance of a fuel cell stack is directly related to the performance of the individual fuel cells. Improving the performance of the fuel cells, for example by using advanced catalysts or electrodes, can increase the overall performance of the stack.
- Optimizing stack design: The design of the fuel cell stack can have a significant impact on its performance. Optimizing the stack design, for example by optimizing the flow of fuel and air through the stack, can improve the efficiency and power output of the stack.
- Using advanced materials and techniques: The use of advanced materials and techniques, such as the use of advanced membrane materials or the use of 3D printing techniques, can also improve the performance of the fuel cell stack.
Safety aspects
Safety is a critical consideration in fuel cell stack design, as fuel cells can generate flammable gases and can be a source of electrical energy. Their are many factors that are considered when designing a fuel cell stack. Some of these safety aspects that need to be taken into consideration are mentioned below.
- Gas management: The stack should be designed to manage the flow of fuel and exhaust gases safely, with measures in place to prevent leaks and to control the pressure of the gases.
- Electrical safety: The stack should be designed to ensure the safety of personnel and equipment, with measures in place to prevent electrical accidents or fires.
- Materials safety: The materials used in the stack should be chosen with safety in mind, with attention paid to the flammability and toxicity of the materials.
Liquid-cooled vs. air-cooled fuel cell stacks
The type of cooling used is a fundamental consideration for fuel cell stack design. Liquid-cooled fuel cell stacks and air-cooled fuel cell stacks differ in the way that they are cooled. In a liquid-cooled fuel cell stack, the fuel cells are cooled by circulating a coolant through channels in the stack. This can be more efficient at removing heat from the fuel cells, but it requires the use of a cooling system and can be more complex to design and maintain. In an air-cooled fuel cell stack, the fuel cells are cooled by circulating air through the stack. This is a simpler and more cost-effective cooling solution, but it may not be as efficient at removing heat from the fuel cells.
Fuel cell stack end plates
The end plates of a fuel cell stack are critical components that provide structural support and electrical connections to the stack. The main factors considered for the design of a fuel cell end plate are as follows:
- Strength and stability: The end plates should be designed to provide sufficient structural support to the stack and to prevent deformation or movement of the stack.
- Electrical connections: The end plates should be designed to provide reliable electrical connections to the stack, with provisions for attaching the necessary electrical components and cables.
- Cooling: The end plates should also be designed to facilitate the cooling of the stack, whether through the circulation of a coolant or the circulation of air.
Cost factors in fuel cell stack design
The cost of fuel cell stacks is determined by four major factors. This includes quantity of the stacks, materials and components used in the stack, the manufacturing processes used, and the complexity of the stack design.
- Materials: The materials used in the fuel cell stack, such as the membrane, electrodes, and catalysts, can significantly impact the cost of the stack. The cost of these materials can vary based on the quantities needed and the sourcing of the materials.
- Manufacturing processes: The manufacturing processes used to produce the fuel cell stack can also impact the cost. For example, the use of advanced manufacturing techniques, such as 3D printing, can increase the cost of the stack.
- Complexity of design: The complexity of the stack design can also impact the cost. Stacks with a more complex design may require more materials, labour, and testing, which can increase the cost.
- Quantity: The quantity of fuel cell stacks being produced can also impact the cost. Higher quantities can often result in lower unit costs due to economies of scale.
Last update: 06.03.2023