Development of a 0D – 1D numerical model for the thermal management of a heavy – duty PEMFC

The rising concerns on climate change are leading to a substantial increase in the efforts to detach from fossil fuel-based technologies towards more sustainable sources. In this context, Fuel Cell (FC) technology in gaining an increasing range of practical applications, offering both advantages and technical challenges. Despite the theoretical efficiency, these systems suffer a significant loss of performance under high loads, resulting in a relevant heat generation. To this end, considered a 200-kW low temperature Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC), a 0D – 1D model of the cooling system is developed in GT – SUITE environment and the results discussed in this paper. In detail, the model is used to investigate the influence of design parameters on the effective efficiency of the system to dissipate the excessive heat produced by the FC. Additionally, a second model (STACK-ONLY) comprehensive of the Membrane Electrode Assembly (MEA) subcomponents properties was built to verify the temperature differences between coolant fluid and membrane to ensure safe operations under most stressful conditions. Considered an optimal operating range of the MEA between 60°C and 80°C, the results obtained evidenced the need for a radiator capable of dissipating at least 80 kW of thermal power. Critical remain the start-up phase of the PEMFC, suggesting the implementation of a rump-up strategy of 30 – 60 seconds to mitigate the temperature overshooting before achieving the peak power Further, the STACK-ONLY model showed a temperature difference between the MEA and coolant fluid ranging from 6°C to 2°C for the inner cells, while the external cells exhibit higher temperature differences, around of 10°C, potentially leading to increased thermally induced stress mechanisms.