Investigation, Analysis and Optimization of PEMFC Channel Cross-Section Shape

Abstract

In this study, a three-dimensional (CFD) model is employed to simulate and optimize the CCS (Channel Cross-Section) shape of the single straight channel PEMFC. Four CCS shapes, namely trapeze, inverted trapeze, half of ellipse and inverted half of ellipse, are investigated using ANSYS-FLUENT software and compared to the rectangular and triangular CCS shapes. The results obtained from the simulation are compared to the experimental results of the literature. A good agreement is observed between the numerical and experimental results. From the obtained results, it appears that the best delivered power density is reported by the trapeze CCS configuration, whereas, the worst delivered power density is obtained by the inverted half of ellipse CCS configuration. The highest pressure-drop and pumping power are obtained with the triangular CCS configuration and the smallest are resulted by the rectangular CCS configuration. Finally, the highest net power output is reported by the trapeze channel cross-section configuration, while, the lowest one is yielded by the inverted half of ellipse CCS configuration.