Effect of Air temp on fuel cell

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the impact of air temperature and humidity on the performance of Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cells. Users noted that while temperature influences performance, humidity plays a critical role, as condensation can obstruct porous electrodes. The use of air pre-coolers in automotive fuel cells is highlighted, with questions raised about their applicability in hobby-grade mini fuel cells. Running air through a chiller before entering the cell is suggested as a method to mitigate humidity issues.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cells
  • Knowledge of humidity effects on fuel cell performance
  • Familiarity with air pre-cooling technologies
  • Basic principles of thermodynamics related to gas cooling
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the design and function of air pre-coolers in automotive fuel cells
  • Explore methods to control humidity in fuel cell systems
  • Learn about the effects of temperature on PEM fuel cell efficiency
  • Investigate the use of chillers in small-scale fuel cell applications
USEFUL FOR

Hobbyists, engineers, and researchers interested in fuel cell technology, particularly those working with Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) systems and seeking to optimize performance through environmental control.

cosmogod
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Hi!

Recently, I got a hobby grade mini- fuel cell after watching a youtube video. Sometimes the fuel cell doesn't perform steadily. What effect does the surrounding air temperature have on PEMs? will it work better if i run in near an AC? (:wink:)

I've seen some really complex images on the internet about the actual stacks used in cars, almost all of them have a thing called air pre-cooler. to what temperatures does it cool the air before it enters the cell? and is it applicable on small scale?

Regards,
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
It may not be the temperature that is important, it may be the humidity. At least for some designs of fuel cell. The electrodes in some designs are porous structures that can get "plugged" if water condenses on them. Running the air through a chiller before it goes through the cell can remove a lot of humidity.
 

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