Effect of process parameters on forming depth of channels in fuel cell bipolar plates fabricated using rubber forming process

Abstract

For this study, a rubber forming process was used to fabricate the aluminium bipolar plates with microchannels that are used in proton exchange membrane fuel cells. The aluminium bipolar plates were fabricated using a 200 ton hydraulic press. The forming depth of the channels was investigated for three different draft angles of the upper die by using a range of parameters (punch speed, compression pressure, rubber thickness and rubber hardness). The depths that could be formed under the above conditions were 0·188 mm at a draft angle of 10°, 0·447 mm at a draft angle of 20° and 0·453 mm at a draft angle of 30°. The rate at which the material thinned also increased as the draft angle was increased from 10 to 30°.