A transient heat transfer model of proton exchange membrane fuel cell stack with internal humidification

Abstract

A transient heat transfer model of proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) stack, based on the mass transportation phenomena in cathode, has been developed. Factors affecting the stack temperature have been considered. Equations were solved with Runge-Kutta-Felhberg method, results indicate that the stack temperature canpsilat be maintained below 80degC itself when current exceed 25A. Influence of current, stoichiometric ratio, pressure and water flow rate on stack temperature have also been researched. Heat management tests have been carried out on a 5 kW PEMFC stack, and a good agreement has been found between tests and model prediction.