An equivalent mechanical model investigating endplates deflection for PEM fuel cell stack

Abstract

The aim of this study is to obtain the deflection curve equations of endplates with one to five clamping belts which allows investigating endplates deflection for uniform contact pressure distribution. Based on an equivalent mechanical model for a large fuel cell stack, the effects of the thicknesses of endplates, numbers, and positions of clamping belts are discussed, and the optimal thickness of endplate with different clamping belts is obtained, and moreover the optimal position of intermediate and outer clamping belts on the endplates. Finally, a three-dimensional finite element analysis (FEA) of a fuel cell stack clamping with steel belts and nonlinear contact elements is compared to what the equivalent mechanical beam model predicts. The result of this study shows that the equivalent mechanical model gives good prediction accuracy for the deflection behavior of endplates and the clamping force of the fuel cell stack, which is effective and helpful for the design of a large fuel cell stack assembly.

Leakage Analysis of PEMFC Sealing System Considering Temperature Cycling

“…PEMFC converts chemical energy into electrical energy by employing a reaction between an oxidizer and a fuel [4]. Because of its high current density, simple structure, and fast response during operation, it is well-suited for portable power sources and vehicles [5]. A sealing groove is opened and a seal is placed on the bipolar plate [6].…”

Parametric Finite Element Analysis of Belt Type Assembly of PEMFC

“…Zhang Zhiming [14] pointed out that the thickness of the endplate can be reduced by using a larger number of belts. Liu Bo [15] et al optimized the endplate topology design for the belts clamping structure to reduce the endplate weight while improving the uniformity of contact pressure distribution.…”