Analysis of Safety Systems for Bench Tests of the Power Plants based on the Fuel Cells used in the Road Transport

Abstract

A theoretical analysis is given related to the ways to reduce the negative impact of motor vehicle exhaust gases on the environment. The possibility of using hydrogen as an energy source for an electric power plant used in the road transport is considered. The operation of a high-power fuel cell battery is advisable on both passenger cars and trucks. However, such technologically complex systems require additional tests at the development stage for verifying the fire safety and tightness of the structure. The systems of storage, transportation, preparation of hydrogen and safety assurance during the performance of such bench tests are analyzed. Fuel cell stack test benches must be provided with additional protection against occurrence of fires and explosions. It is based on a gas-analytical fiber-optic resonant (vibration frequency) sensor that monitors the accumulation of explosive gases. The key parameters of this system are the inertness and speed of the individual elements. A block diagram of a test bench for a fuel cell stack with a power of 150 kW is presented, the hydrogen pressure is reduced to 2–2.5 atm. During the operation of the installation, it is required to ensure continuous monitoring of the pressure in the system and in its individual parts, as well as to monitor the temperature regime of the gas supply in the fuel cell itself. The description of the principle of the test stand functioning is given. Its technological modules are identified, such as a hydrogen supply system, a cooling system, an air injection system, a power plant, and a block for simulating a potential load on an electric motor of the vehicle.