Coordinated optimal power distribution strategy based on maximum efficiency range of multi-stack fuel cell system for high altitude

Abstract

A multi-stack fuel cell system (MFCS) comprises multiple individual fuel cell systems (FCSs). The allocation of power among these FCSs significantly impacts the overall system performance, which is influenced by various factors, including ambient conditions. To effectively distribute power and enhance the efficiency and fuel economy of the Multi-Fuel Cell System (MFCS) at high altitudes, this work presents a coordinated optimal distribution strategy based on the concept of the maximum efficiency range (MER) of the MFCS. The configuration of the MFCS includes three fuel cell systems, and a model is developed to account for the altitude effect on the MFCS. In addition, an efficiency analysis of the MFCS is conducted for various altitudes. In this study, the coordinated optimal distribution strategy, based on the MER, is employed to achieve optimal power allocation among the various fuel cell systems within the MFCS. The results demonstrate that the proposed strategy yields higher average efficiency of the MFCS and consumes less hydrogen compared to the equal distribution strategy at three altitude levels: 0 m, 3000 m, and 4000 m. Furthermore, the proposed strategy effectively improves the efficiency of the MFCS at different altitudes by adjusting the MER, yielding satisfactory outcomes, particularly in high-altitude regions.