Performance Optimisation of PEM Fuel Cells with a Re-Circulation Pump: a Practical Approach

摘要

For the operation of PEM-fuel cells, a number of peripheral components for the generation and transportation of the process medias are necessary. These components are very often characterized by high energy losses. In particular, system sections which are operated on a relatively high temperature level should be isolated to reduce the heat losses and to improve the total efficiency. The energy demand of pumps and compressors of the fuel cell plant can also be reduced if the power of the components is adapted by suitable control mechanisms to the power generation of the fuel cell. Within the framework of this paper the possibilities for decreasing the energy demand of the gas recirculation pump are investigated and a suitable control mechanism is developed. The influence of the optimisation approach on total and electrical efficiency is discussed.