JP2009152090A - Solid polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To improve the power efficiency of overall system while using raw material gas highly efficiently. <P>SOLUTION: Among all the cells composing a fuel cell 110, each of a second sub-stack 112 and a third sub-stack 113 has the same number of cells of 25% or less. A fuel gas outlet of a first sub-stack 111 is connected to each of fuel gas inlets of the second and third sub-stack 112, 113 via three-way valves 102, 103, and a fuel gas outlet of the second sub-stack 112 is connected to a fuel gas inlet of the third sub-stack 113 via the valve 103, while a fuel gas outlet of the third sub-stack 113 is connected to a fuel gas inlet of the second sub-stack 112 via the valve 102. The valves 102, 103 are switched by a controller 140 in accordance with operation time so that either one of the second and third sub-stack 112, 113 may be located at the most downstream side in the flow direction of hydrogen gas 1. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system, and is particularly effective when applied to a case where hydrogen gas is used as a fuel gas or an oxygen gas is used as an oxidizing gas.

  A polymer electrolyte fuel cell includes a cell in which a solid polymer electrolyte membrane having proton conductivity is sandwiched between a fuel electrode and an oxide electrode having conductivity and gas permeability, a flow path of fuel gas containing hydrogen gas, and oxygen A plurality of gas-containing oxidizing gas flow paths are formed, and a plurality of conductive separators are alternately stacked, and both ends in the stacking direction are sandwiched between a pair of current collector plates and end flanges.

  In the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system provided with such a polymer electrolyte fuel cell, the fuel gas and the oxidizing gas inlet are formed in the end flange of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell. When the oxidizing gas is supplied, the fuel gas and the oxidizing gas flow through the flow paths of the separators, respectively, and the hydrogen gas and the oxygen gas react electrochemically in the cell, and the collecting gas. Electric power can be taken out from the electric plate.

  The spent fuel gas and the oxidizing gas are circulated through the flow paths together with the generated water generated by the electrochemical reaction, and the fuel gas outlet and the oxidizing gas exhaust formed in the end flange. It is discharged from the outlet to the outside.

  In such a polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system, for example, when hydrogen gas itself is used as a fuel gas, a gas circulation device such as a blower or an ejector is connected to the fuel gas discharge port via a drain trap. By connecting the gas inlet and connecting the gas outlet of the gas circulation device to the fuel gas inlet, the generated water and the hydrogen gas that has not been subjected to the electrochemical reaction are discharged from the fuel gas outlet. After being discharged and separated by a drain trap, the hydrogen gas is returned to the fuel gas inlet and supplied again with new hydrogen gas so that the hydrogen gas is effectively utilized.

JP 2003-031248 A

  However, in the conventional polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system as described above, when the hydrogen gas itself is used as the fuel gas, the gas circulation device as described above should be used in order to effectively use the hydrogen gas. Therefore, electric power for driving the gas circulation device is required, and the power efficiency of the entire power generation system is deteriorated.

  Such a problem is that when oxygen gas itself is used as an oxidizing gas, a gas receiving port of a gas circulating device such as a blower or an ejector is connected to the oxidizing gas outlet through a drain trap, and the gas circulating device By connecting the gas outlet of the gas to the oxidizing gas inlet, the generated water and the oxygen gas that has not been subjected to the electrochemical reaction are discharged from the oxidizing gas outlet and separated by a drain trap. Even when the oxygen gas is used effectively by returning the oxygen gas to the oxidant gas inlet and supplying it again together with new oxygen gas, it occurs in the same manner.

  Therefore, the present invention provides a polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system capable of improving the power efficiency of the entire system while using source gas such as hydrogen gas and oxygen gas with high efficiency. With the goal.

  A solid polymer fuel cell power generation system according to a first invention for solving the above-described problem is a cell in which a solid polymer electrolyte membrane is sandwiched between a fuel electrode and an oxidation electrode, and a flow path for the fuel gas and the oxidation gas. A polymer electrolyte fuel cell having a separator formed thereon, fuel gas supply means for supplying a fuel gas to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, and an oxidation for supplying an oxidizing gas to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell In the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system provided with a gas supply means, the polymer electrolyte fuel cell includes a first sub-stack in which the cells and the separator are stacked, and the cells and the separator. Of all the cells constituting the solid polymer fuel cell, comprising a laminated second sub-stack, and a third sub-stack in which the cells and the separator are laminated, The second sub-stack and the third sub-stack each include the same number of the cells of 25% or less, the first sub-stack includes the remaining cells, and the first sub-stack A fuel gas inlet is connected to the fuel gas supply means, and a fuel gas outlet of the first substack is a fuel gas inlet of the second substack and a fuel gas inlet of the third substack. Connected to the inlet, the fuel gas outlet of the second substack is connected to the fuel gas inlet of the third substack, and the fuel gas outlet of the third substack is connected to the second substack. Fuel gas gas-liquid components connected to the fuel gas inlets of the sub-stacks and disposed in the fuel gas flow path between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, respectively. And disconnecting or connecting between the fuel gas outlet of the first sub-stack and the fuel gas inlet of the second sub-stack and the fuel gas inlet of the third sub-stack, respectively. Fuel gas first switching means, and between the fuel gas outlet of the second sub-stack and the fuel gas inlet of the third sub-stack, and the fuel gas exhaust of the third sub-stack. Fuel gas second switching means for cutting or connecting between the outlet and the fuel gas inlet of the second sub-stack, respectively, operating time, and the amount of fuel gas fed from the fuel gas supply means , The amount of current flowing through the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, the voltage value of the cell of the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell Measure at least one of water content, pressure loss value in the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, and pressure value of the fuel gas outlet of the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell Based on the information from the fuel gas switching timing confirmation means and the fuel gas switching timing confirmation means, one of the second sub-stack and the third sub-stack is placed on the most downstream side in the fuel gas flow direction. And a control means for controlling the first switching means for the fuel gas and the second switching means for the fuel gas so as to be positioned at the same position.

  A solid polymer fuel cell power generation system according to a second aspect of the present invention is a stack of a cell in which a solid polymer electrolyte membrane is sandwiched between a fuel electrode and an oxidation electrode and a separator in which a flow path for fuel gas and oxidizing gas is formed. Solid comprising: a polymer electrolyte fuel cell; fuel gas supply means for supplying a fuel gas to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell; and an oxidant gas supply means for supplying an oxidant gas to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell In the polymer fuel cell power generation system, the polymer electrolyte fuel cell includes a first substack in which the cells and the separator are stacked, and a second substack in which the cells and the separator are stacked, A third sub-stack in which the cells and the separator are stacked, and out of all the cells constituting the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, the second sub-stack and the Three sub-stacks each comprising the same number of cells of 25% or less, the first sub-stack comprising the remaining cells, and the oxidizing gas inlet of the first sub-stack being the oxidizing gas Connected to the supply means, the oxidizing gas outlet of the first sub-stack is connected to the oxidizing gas inlet of the second sub-stack and the oxidizing gas inlet of the third sub-stack, and the second sub-stack The oxidizing gas outlet of the substack is connected to the oxidizing gas inlet of the third substack, and the oxidizing gas outlet of the third substack is connected to the oxidizing gas inlet of the second substack A gas-liquid separation means for oxidizing gas respectively disposed in a flow path of the oxidizing gas between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell; and the first sub-stuck. First oxidizing gas switching means for cutting or connecting between the oxidizing gas outlet of the second sub-stack and the oxidizing gas inlet of the second sub-stack and the oxidizing gas inlet of the third sub-stack, respectively. Between the oxidizing gas outlet of the second sub-stack and the oxidizing gas inlet of the third sub-stack and between the oxidizing gas outlet of the third sub-stack and the second sub-stack. A second switching means for oxidizing gas that cuts or connects to each of the oxidizing gas inlets, an operating time, a supply amount of the oxidizing gas from the oxidizing gas supply means, and a solid polymer fuel cell The amount of current flowing through the sub-stack, the voltage value of the cells in the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, the amount of water in the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, the polymer electrolyte fuel cell An oxidizing gas switching timing confirmation means for measuring at least one of a pressure loss value in the sub-stack of the pond and a pressure value of the oxidizing gas outlet of the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell; Based on the information from the oxidizing gas switching timing confirmation means, one of the second sub-stack and the third sub-stack is positioned on the most downstream side in the flowing direction of the oxidizing gas. And a control means for controlling the first switching means and the second switching means for the oxidizing gas.

  The polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to a third aspect is the first aspect, wherein the oxidizing gas inlet of the first sub-stack is connected to the oxidizing gas supply means, An oxidizing gas outlet of the sub-stack is connected to an oxidizing gas inlet of the second sub-stack and an oxidizing gas inlet of the third sub-stack, and the oxidizing gas outlet of the second sub-stack is the The solid polymer fuel is connected to the oxidizing gas inlet of the third sub-stack, and the oxidizing gas outlet of the third sub-stack is connected to the oxidizing gas inlet of the second sub-stack. A gas-liquid separation means for oxidizing gas respectively disposed in a flow path of the oxidizing gas between the sub-stacks connected to the battery; the oxidizing gas outlet of the first sub-stack; First oxidant gas switching means for cutting or connecting between the oxidant gas inlet of the sack and the oxidant gas inlet of the third sub-stack, respectively, and the oxidant gas of the second sub-stack Cutting between the outlet and the oxidizing gas inlet of the third sub-stack and between the oxidizing gas outlet of the third sub-stack and the oxidizing gas inlet of the second sub-stack, respectively Or the second switching means for the oxidizing gas to be connected, the operation time, the amount of the oxidizing gas supplied from the oxidizing gas supply means, the amount of current flowing through the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, the solid A voltage value of the cells of the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, a moisture content in the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, a pressure loss value in the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, An oxidizing gas switching timing confirmation means for measuring at least one of the pressure values of the oxidizing gas outlet of the sub-stack of the polymer fuel cell, and the control means further comprises the oxidation Based on the information from the gas switching time confirmation means, the first oxidizing gas first so that one of the second sub-stack and the third sub-stack is positioned on the most downstream side in the flow direction of the oxidizing gas. The switching means and the second switching means for oxidizing gas are controlled.

  In the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the first or third aspect, the control means supplies the fuel gas from the first sub-stack to the second sub-stack. The fuel gas first switching means and the fuel gas so as to switch the sub stack positioned at the most downstream side in the flow direction of the fuel gas after being once supplied to both the stack and the third sub stack The second switching means is controlled.

  The polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to a fifth invention is the second or third invention, wherein the control means transfers the oxidizing gas from the first sub-stack to the second sub-stack. The first switching means for the oxidizing gas and the oxidizing gas so as to switch the sub stack positioned at the most downstream side in the flow direction of the oxidizing gas after being supplied to both the stack and the third sub stack. The second switching means is controlled.

  A polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to a sixth aspect of the present invention is the first, third, or fourth aspect, wherein the fuel gas supply means and the first sub-unit of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell are provided. A water storage tank is provided between the fuel gas receiving port of the stack and stores water separated by the gas-liquid separation means for fuel gas and contacts the fuel gas with the water. It is characterized by.

  A polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to a seventh aspect of the present invention is the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to any one of the second, third, and fifth aspects, wherein the oxidizing gas supply means and the first sub of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell are provided. A water storage tank disposed between the stack and the oxidizing gas receiving port, storing water separated by the gas-liquid separation means for oxidizing gas, and contacting the oxidizing gas with the water; It is characterized by.

  The polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to an eighth invention is the fuel gas discharge port of the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell according to any of the first, third, fourth, and sixth inventions. And a membrane humidifier for humidifying the fuel gas supplied to the fuel gas supply port of the sub-stack with water in the fuel gas discharged from the sub-stack.

  A polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to a ninth aspect of the present invention is the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to any one of the second, third, fifth, and seventh aspects, wherein the oxidizing gas outlet of the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell is provided. A film humidifier is provided for humidifying the oxidizing gas supplied to the oxidizing gas supply port of the sub-stack with water in the oxidizing gas discharged from the sub-stack.

  A polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to a tenth aspect of the invention is the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to any one of the first, third, fourth, sixth, and eighth aspects, wherein the gas inside the gas-liquid separation means for fuel gas is removed from the system. A gas leak means for leaking is provided.

  A polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to a tenth invention is the system according to any one of the second, third, fifth, seventh and ninth inventions, wherein the gas inside the gas-liquid separation means for oxidizing gas is used as a system. Gas leak means for leaking outside is provided.

  A polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to a twelfth aspect of the invention is any one of the first, third, fourth, sixth, eighth, and tenth aspects, wherein the fuel gas supply means has a concentration of 99% or more. It is characterized by supplying hydrogen gas.

  A polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to a thirteenth invention is the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to any one of the second, third, fifth, seventh, ninth and tenth inventions, wherein the oxidizing gas supply means has a concentration of 99% or more. The oxygen gas is supplied.

  According to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system of the present invention, one of the second sub-stack and the third sub-stack can be switched so as to be positioned on the most downstream side in the flow direction of the source gas. Even without a gas circulation device such as an ejector or ejector, the generated water can be discharged from the flow path of the sub-stack located on the most downstream side, and at the same time, almost all of the supplied raw material gas is used for power generation. Therefore, the power efficiency of the entire system can be improved while using the source gas with high efficiency.

  Further, since the second sub-stack and the third sub-stack each have the same number of cells of 25% or less, and the first sub-stack has all the remaining cells, the flow direction of the source gas Even if water stays in the material gas flow path of the sub-stack located on the most downstream side and the power generation performance of the sub-stack located on the most downstream side in the flow direction is reduced, the reduction is 25% at the maximum. Since it can be suppressed to the following, the power efficiency of the entire system can be improved more reliably.

  Embodiments of a polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments described with reference to the drawings.

[First embodiment]
A first embodiment of a polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a main part of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system, and FIG. 2 is an operation explanatory diagram of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system of FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 1, a solid polymer fuel cell 110 includes a cell in which a solid polymer electrolyte membrane having proton conductivity is sandwiched between a fuel electrode and an oxidation electrode having conductivity and gas permeability, and a flow of fuel gas. A plurality of (three in the present embodiment) constituted by laminating both ends in the laminating direction and a pair of current collector plates and end flanges, each having a channel and an oxidant gas channel formed thereon and laminating separators having conductivity. The first to third sub-stacks 111 to 113.

  In the polymer electrolyte fuel cell 110, the second sub-stack 112 and the third sub-stack 113 of each of the cells constituting all the sub-stacks 111 to 113 are each 25% or less (preferably 10% or less, more preferably 5% or less, and most preferably one single cell), and the first sub-stack 111 is configured to include the remaining cells. .

  A hydrogen gas cylinder 130, which is a means for supplying hydrogen gas 1 having a concentration of 99% or more, which is a fuel gas, is provided at the fuel gas inlet formed in the end flange of the first sub-stack 111 with an electromagnetic two-way valve. 101 is connected.

  The fuel gas outlet formed in the end flange of the first substack 111 is connected to the fuel gas inlet formed in the end flange of the second substack 112 and the end flange of the third substack 113. It is connected to the formed fuel gas inlet through a drain trap 121 which is a gas-liquid separation means for fuel gas. The drain trap 121 and the fuel gas inlet of the second sub stack 112 communicate with each other via an electromagnetic three-way valve 102. The drain trap 121 and the fuel gas inlet of the third sub-stack 113 communicate with each other via an electromagnetic three-way valve 103.

  The fuel gas delivery port formed in the end flange of the second sub-stack 112 is connected to the remaining port of the valve 103 via a drain trap 122 which is a gas-liquid separation means for fuel gas. The fuel gas delivery port formed in the end flange of the third sub-stack 113 is connected to the remaining port of the valve 102 via a drain trap 123 which is a gas-liquid separation means for fuel gas.

  Below the drain traps 121 to 123, electromagnetic two-way valves 104 to 106 for discharging the generated water 2 separated from the gas and liquid to the outside are provided.

  The valves 101 to 106 are electrically connected to an output section of a control device 140 that is a control means, and the control device 140 receives information from a built-in timer (not shown) that is a fuel gas switching timing confirmation means. Based on (operation time), the opening and closing of the valves 101 to 106 can be controlled (details will be described later).

  In this embodiment, the valves 102, 103 and the like are configured to serve as both fuel gas first switching means and fuel gas second switching means.

  In this embodiment, in order to avoid complication of the drawing, in FIG. 1, temperature control water such as an oxidizing gas system such as an oxidizing gas supply unit or a temperature control water distribution unit of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system 100 is used. Although description of a system | strain etc. is abbreviate | omitted and only the main parts, such as a fuel gas system | strain, are described, these oxidant gas systems, temperature control water systems, etc. are provided similarly to the conventional case.

  Next, the operation of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system 100 according to the present embodiment having such a structure will be described.

  When the control device 140 is operated, the control device 140 controls the valves 101 to 106 to close the valves 104 to 106 and open the valve 101 while the first sub stack 111 is closed. The valve 102 is switched so as to connect only the fuel gas outlet of the second substack 112 and the fuel gas inlet of the second substack 112, and the fuel gas outlet and the third substack 112 of the second substack 112 are switched. The valve 103 is switched so that only the fuel gas inlet of the sub stack 113 is connected (see FIG. 2A).

  Thereby, the hydrogen gas 1 in the hydrogen gas cylinder 130 is supplied to the fuel gas inlet of the first substack 111 via the valve 101, and flows through the flow paths of the separators. In the first sub-stack 111, the cell reacts electrochemically with oxygen in an oxidizing gas supplied from an oxidizing gas system (not shown), and electric power is taken out from the current collecting plate and used hydrogen gas. 1 (remaining consumed in the cells of the sub stack 111) flows through the flow paths together with the generated water 2 generated by the electrochemical reaction, and is discharged from the fuel gas discharge port. After the generated water 2 is separated, it is fed to the fuel gas inlet of the second sub-stack 112 via the valve 102, circulates in the flow path of the separator, In the second substack 112, the cell reacts electrochemically with oxygen in the oxidizing gas in the cell, power is taken out from the current collector plate, and the spent hydrogen gas 1 (in the cell of the substack 112 is further added). After the consumed residue) flows through the flow path together with the generated water 2 generated by the electrochemical reaction, is discharged from the fuel gas discharge port, and the generated water 2 is separated by the drain trap 122, It is fed to the fuel gas inlet of the third sub-stack 113 via the valve 103 and circulates in the flow path of the separator. In the third sub-stack 113, the oxygen in the oxidizing gas and The cell reacts electrochemically, and power is extracted from the current collector plate.

  At this time, in the third sub-stack 113, most of the supplied hydrogen gas 1 is consumed and almost no gas is discharged from the fuel gas discharge port. The generated water 2 gradually begins to stay in the flow path, and the power generation performance decreases.

  Here, the control device 140 controls the valves 102 and 103 to control the fuel gas delivery port of the first sub-stack 111 when a preset operation time has elapsed based on information from the timer. And the valve 103 is switched so as to connect only between the fuel gas inlet and the third sub-stack 113 and the fuel gas outlet / outlet of the third sub-stack 113 and the second sub-stack 112. The valve 102 is switched so as to connect only to the fuel gas inlet (see FIG. 2B).

  That is, the control device 140 starts from the third sub-stack 113 located on the most downstream side in the flow direction so as to newly position the second sub-stack 112 on the most downstream side in the flow direction of the hydrogen gas 1. Switch.

  As a result, the used hydrogen gas 1 discharged from the fuel gas outlet of the first substack 111 and separated from the generated water 2 by the drain trap 121 (remaining consumed in the cells of the substack 111). Is fed to the fuel gas inlet of the third sub-stack 113 via the valve 103 and circulates in the flow path of the separator, and in the third sub-stack 113, It reacts electrochemically with oxygen in the cell, power is taken out from the current collector plate, and used hydrogen gas 1 (remaining consumed further in the cell of the substack 113) is used in the electrochemical reaction. After flowing through the flow path together with the generated water 2 generated along with the generated water 2 and discharged from the fuel gas outlet, the generated water 2 is separated by the drain trap 123, and then the valve 10. And is supplied to the fuel gas inlet of the second sub-stack 112 and flows through the flow path of the separator. In the second sub-stack 112, oxygen in the oxidizing gas and the cell It reacts electrochemically, and power is extracted from the current collector plate.

  At this time, in the third sub-stack 113, the remaining hydrogen gas 1 consumed in the cells of the first sub-stack 111 is supplied, so that the production staying in the flow path is generated. Since the water 2 is pushed out and discharged together with the generated water 2 newly generated in accordance with the electrochemical reaction, the power generation performance is prevented from being lowered. In the sub-stack 112, most of the supplied hydrogen gas 1 is consumed and almost no gas is discharged from the fuel gas discharge port, so that the generated water 2 generated by the electrochemical reaction is transferred to the flow path. It gradually begins to stay inside, and the power generation performance decreases.

  Here, based on information from the timer, the control device 140 controls the valves 102 and 103 when the preset operation time further elapses, thereby supplying the fuel gas in the first sub-stack 111. The valve 102 is switched so as to connect only between the outlet and the fuel gas inlet of the second sub-stack 112, and the fuel gas outlet and the third sub-stack 113 of the second sub-stack 112 are switched. The valve 103 is switched so as to connect only to the fuel gas inlet (see FIG. 2A).

  That is, the control device 140 starts from the second substack 113 located on the most downstream side in the flow direction so as to newly position the third substack 112 on the most downstream side in the flow direction of the hydrogen gas 1. Switching, that is, returning to the original state.

  Thereafter, the control device 140 repeats the control of the valves 102 and 103 described above. As a result, in the polymer electrolyte fuel cell 110, the sub stacks 112 and 113 located on the most downstream side in the flow direction of the hydrogen gas 1 are sequentially switched in accordance with the operation elapsed time.

  Note that the generated water 2 collected in the drain traps 121 to 123 causes the control device 140 to open and close the valves 104 to 106 every time a preset operation time elapses based on information from the timer. By doing so, it is appropriately discharged out of the system.

  For this reason, the polymer electrolyte fuel cell 110 can discharge the produced water 2 from the flow path without a gas circulation device such as a blower or an ejector, and at the same time, is supplied from the hydrogen gas cylinder 130. Almost all the hydrogen gas 1 can be used for power generation.

  Therefore, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to improve the power efficiency of the entire system 100 while using the hydrogen gas 1 with high efficiency.

  The second sub-stack 112 and the third sub-stack 113 each have the same number of cells of 25% or less (preferably 10% or less, more preferably 5% or less, most preferably one single cell). And the first sub-stack 111 is configured to include all the remaining cells. Therefore, as described above, the sub-stack 112 positioned on the most downstream side in the flow direction of the hydrogen gas 1 is provided. , 113 even if the generated water 2 stays in the flow path and the power generation performance of the sub-stacks 112 and 113 located on the most downstream side in the flow direction is reduced, the reduction is 25% or less at maximum ( The system 100 can be reduced to a maximum of 10% or less in a preferable case, a maximum of 5% or less in a more preferable case, and a minimum in a most preferable case. It can be achieved more reliably improve power efficiency.

[Second Embodiment]
A second embodiment of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a schematic configuration diagram of the main part of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system. However, parts similar to those in the first embodiment described above are denoted by the same reference numerals as those used in the description of the first embodiment described above, so that the first embodiment described above is used. The description overlapping with the description in the form is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the valves 104 to 106 of the drain traps 121 to 123 are equipped with an ion exchange resin for removing impurities such as metal ions in the generated water 2 and purifying the generated water 2. 251 is connected to the upper side. The lower side of the purifier 251 is connected to the upper side of the water storage tank 252 that stores the purified product water 2. A valve 201 is connected to the lower side of the water storage tank 252.

  The water tank 252 is connected so as to be interposed between the valve 101 and the fuel gas inlet of the first sub-stack 111, and the valve 101 side (hydrogen gas cylinder 130 side) is connected to the lower side. The first sub-stack 111 side is connected to the upper side.

  The valve 201 is electrically connected to an output portion of a control device 240 that is a control means, and the control device 240 receives information (operation) from a built-in timer (not shown) that is a fuel gas switching timing confirmation means. The valve 201 can be controlled to open and close together with the valves 101 to 106 based on time (details will be described later).

  In such a polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system 200 according to this embodiment, when the control device 240 is operated, the control device 240 causes the valve to operate as in the case of the first embodiment described above. By controlling 101 to 103, as in the case of the first embodiment described above, the power generation operation can be performed while improving the overall power efficiency while using the hydrogen gas 1 with high efficiency.

  When performing such a power generation operation, the control device 240, as in the case of the first embodiment described above, based on the information from the timer, every time a preset operation time elapses. The valves 104 to 106 are opened and closed, and the generated water 2 is appropriately discharged from the drain traps 121 to 123. The produced water 2 discharged from the drain traps 121 to 123 is stored in the water storage tank 252 after the impurities such as metal ions existing in the purifier 251 are removed.

  For this reason, the hydrogen gas 1 delivered from the hydrogen gas cylinder 130 is bubbled in the generated water 2 in the storage tank 252 so that it is humidified and then delivered to the first sub-stack 111. become.

  Since the generated water 2 stored in the storage tank 252 gradually increases as it is operated, the control device 240 sets a preset operation time based on information from the timer. By opening and closing the valve 201 every time, it is appropriately discharged out of the system.

  That is, in the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system 100 according to the first embodiment described above, the generated water 2 sent from the substacks 111 to 113 and collected by the drain traps 121 to 123 is the valve 104. The solid polymer fuel cell power generation system 200 according to this embodiment is discharged from the sub-stacks 111 to 113 and collected by the drain traps 121 to 123. The water 2 is temporarily stored in the water storage tank 252 without being discharged out of the system from the valves 104 to 106, and used for humidifying the hydrogen gas 1 supplied from the hydrogen gas cylinder 130 to the first sub stack 111. It was.

  For this reason, in the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system 200 according to this embodiment, before the hydrogen gas 1 from the hydrogen gas cylinder 130 is supplied to the first sub stack 111, the generated water 2 is used for humidification in advance. Therefore, it is not necessary to prepare a separate humidifying water or humidifier for humidifying the hydrogen gas 1 from the hydrogen gas cylinder 130 before supplying it to the first sub-stack 111.

  Therefore, according to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system 200 according to this embodiment, it is possible to obtain the same effect as that of the first embodiment described above, and from the hydrogen gas cylinder 130, Since the generated water 2 can be effectively used for humidifying the hydrogen gas 1 supplied to the first sub-stack 111, the efficiency of the entire system is improved and the compactness is improved as compared with the case of the first embodiment described above. Can be further improved.

  Further, if the temperature of the water storage tank 252 is also adjusted using temperature adjustment water for adjusting the temperature of the sub-stacks 111 to 113, and the temperature of the generated water 2 in the water storage tank 252 is adjusted, a system is provided. The humidification efficiency of the hydrogen gas 1 can be further improved while improving the overall efficiency.

[Third embodiment]
A third embodiment of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a schematic configuration diagram of a main part of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system. However, parts similar to those in the first and second embodiments described above are denoted by the same reference numerals as those used in the description of the first and second embodiments described above, thereby Descriptions overlapping with those in the first and second embodiments are omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 4, one end side of valves 301 and 302 as gas leak means is connected to the upper side of the drain traps 122 and 123 connected to the second and third sub-stacks 112 and 113, respectively. The other end sides of these valves 301 and 302 communicate with the outside of the system.

  The valves 301 and 302 are electrically connected to output portions of a control device 340 as control means, respectively. The control device 340 is connected to a built-in timer (not shown) as fuel gas switching time confirmation means. Based on the information (operation time), the opening and closing of the valves 301 and 302 can be controlled together with the valves 101 to 106 (details will be described later).

  In such a polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system 300 according to this embodiment, when the control device 340 is operated, the control device 340 is connected to the valve as in the case of the first embodiment described above. By controlling 101 to 103, as in the case of the first embodiment described above, the power generation operation can be performed while improving the overall power efficiency while using the hydrogen gas 1 with high efficiency.

  When the power generation operation is performed in this manner, the control device 340 is located on the most downstream side in the flow direction of the hydrogen gas 1 for every preset operation time based on the information from the timer. Only the valves 301 and 302 (for example, the valve 302) connected to the drain traps 122 and 123 (for example, the drain trap 123) connected to the sub stacks 112 and 113 (for example, the third sub stack 113) are opened for a predetermined time. Then, the hydrogen gas 1 in the drain traps 122 and 123 (for example, the drain trap 123) is leaked out of the system by a predetermined amount.

  In other words, when the hydrogen gas 1 in the hydrogen gas cylinder 130 is circulated and used in the second and third sub-stacks 112 and 113, the impure gas slightly contained therein becomes the second and third sub-stacks 112 and 113. In this case, it remains as it is without being involved in the power generation reaction, and gradually increases in concentration, thereby reducing the power generation efficiency of the second and third sub-stacks 112, 113. The drain traps 122 and 123 (for example, the drain trap 123) connected to the second and third substacks 112 and 113 (for example, the third substack 113) located on the most downstream side in the flow direction of the hydrogen gas 1 Only the valves 301 and 302 (for example, the valve 302) to be connected are opened for a predetermined time, and the drain traps 122 and 123 (for example, the drain The above-described impurity gas leaks out of the system together with the hydrogen gas 1 in the hop 123), thereby suppressing the concentration of the impurity gas remaining in the second and third sub-stacks 112 and 113 from increasing. It is.

  Therefore, according to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system 300 according to the present embodiment, it is possible to obtain the same effects as those of the first embodiment described above, as well as the second and third embodiments. Since the increase in concentration of the impure gas remaining in the substacks 112 and 113 can be suppressed, a decrease in power generation efficiency can be further suppressed.

[Other Embodiments]
In the second embodiment described above, the generated water 2 sent from the sub-stacks 111 to 113 and collected by the drain traps 121 to 123 is temporarily stored in the water storage tank 252, and is then supplied from the hydrogen gas cylinder 130. The case of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system 200 used for humidification of the hydrogen gas 1 supplied to the first sub-stack 111 has been described, but as another embodiment (fourth embodiment) For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the hydrogen gas 1 discharged from the fuel gas discharge ports of the first to third sub-stacks 111 to 113 of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell 110 and the fuel of the sub-stacks 111 to 113, respectively. By contacting the hydrogen gas 1 supplied to the gas supply port through a film that allows only moisture to pass through without allowing the gas to pass therethrough, The hydrogen gas 1 supplied to the fuel gas supply ports of the sub-stacks 111 to 113 is humidified by the generated water 2 in the hydrogen gas 1 discharged from the fuel gas discharge ports of the fuel cells 111 to 113, respectively. A polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system 400 provided with a membrane humidifier 453 may be used.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the second and third substacks 112 and 113 are positioned on the most downstream side and the upstream side in the feeding direction of the hydrogen gas 1 fed from the first substack 111. The valves 102 and 103 are controlled by the control devices 140, 240, and 340 so that the switching of the valves 102 and 103 is performed substantially simultaneously. However, as another embodiment, for example, all the ports of the valves 102 and 103 are once completely closed. The hydrogen gas 1 from the first sub-stack 111 is once supplied to both the second and third sub-stacks 112 and 113, and then the most downstream side in the flow direction of the hydrogen gas 1 and The valves 102 and 103 can be controlled by the control means so as to switch the second and third sub-stacks 112 and 113 positioned on the upstream side.

  If the valves 102 and 103 are controlled in this way, the hydrogen gas 1 is always fed into the second and third sub-stacks 112 and 113 even when the valves 102 and 103 are switched. Therefore, the internal pressure accompanying the consumption of the hydrogen gas 1 in the second and third sub-stacks 112 and 113 in the non-supply state of the hydrogen gas 1 that may be generated by the switching time lag of the valves 102 and 103 is rapidly reduced. Since the inside of the second and third sub-stacks 112 and 113 can be maintained in the vicinity of the pressure when the hydrogen gas 1 is supplied even when the valves 102 and 103 are switched. The impact on the cell due to the pressure fluctuation in the second and third sub-stacks 112 and 113 due to the switching of 102 and 103 can be suppressed. It is possible to suppress the mechanical degradation of the cell.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, the three-way type valves 102, 103 and the like are configured so as to serve as both the first switching means for fuel gas and the second switching means for fuel gas. Although the supply flow path of the hydrogen gas 1 to the stacks 112 and 113 is switched, as another embodiment, for example, the first switching means for fuel gas and the fuel by a two-way type valve, a rotary type valve, etc. It is also possible to individually configure the gas second switching means so as to switch the supply flow path of the hydrogen gas 1 to the second and third substacks 112 and 113.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, the case where the hydrogen gas 1 itself is used as the fuel gas and the gas containing oxygen (for example, air) is used as the oxidizing gas has been described. However, the oxygen gas itself is used as the oxidizing gas. In this case, the oxidizing gas system is also configured in the same manner as the above-described fuel gas system according to the above-described embodiments. That is, for example, the oxidizing gas concentration is 99% or more in the same manner as the fuel gas supply unit. An oxidizing gas supply means such as an oxygen gas cylinder for supplying the oxygen gas is configured, and an oxidizing gas gas-liquid separating means is configured in the same manner as the fuel gas gas-liquid separating means, and the fuel gas first switching means The first switching means for oxidizing gas is configured in the same manner as described above, and the second switching means for oxidizing gas is configured in the same manner as the second switching means for fuel gas. The oxidization gas switching timing confirmation means is configured in the same manner as the switching timing confirmation means, and by providing a storage tank, a membrane humidifier, a gas leakage means similar to the water tank, the membrane humidifier, and the gas leak means, etc. In the oxidizing gas system, the same effects as those described in the above embodiments can be obtained.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the timer for measuring the operation time is provided as the fuel gas switching timing confirmation means, and the control devices 140, 240, and 340 are preset based on information from the timer. The valves 101 to 106, 201, 301, and 302 are controlled according to the elapsed operation time. However, as another embodiment, for example, each of the above-described embodiments can be performed as follows. The same effect as in the case of can be obtained.

(1) Gas flow rate for measuring the amount of fuel gas supplied from the fuel gas supply means and the amount of oxidation gas supplied from the oxidizing gas supply means as the fuel gas switching time confirmation means and the oxidizing gas switching time confirmation means Measuring means (for example, a mass flow meter, an orifice type gas flow meter, etc.) is provided, and the control means uses the integrated value of the supply amount of the fuel gas or the oxidizing gas based on the information from the gas flow measuring means. The position switching means such as the above and the gas leak means are controlled.

(2) A current amount measuring means for measuring the amount of current flowing through the sub-stack is provided as a fuel gas switching timing confirmation means or an oxidizing gas switching timing confirmation means, and the control means uses the information from the current amount measurement means as a reference. Based on the integrated value of the amount of current flowing through the sub stack, the position switching means such as the valve and the gas leak means are controlled.

(3) As a fuel gas switching timing confirmation means and an oxidizing gas switching timing confirmation means, a cell voltage measurement means for measuring the voltage of the cell is provided, and the control means is based on information from the cell voltage measurement means, When it becomes smaller than a preset cell voltage reference value, the position switching means such as the valve and the gas leak means are controlled (for example, the technology described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-151125). application).

(4) As a fuel gas switching timing confirmation means and an oxidizing gas switching timing confirmation means, a cell moisture measuring means for measuring the moisture content downstream of the sub stack in the gas flow direction is provided, and the control means is configured to control the cell moisture. Based on the information from the measuring means, when the water content on the downstream side in the gas flow direction of the sub stack located on the most downstream side in the gas flow direction becomes larger than a preset water content reference value. The position switching means such as the valve and the gas leak means are controlled.

(5) Pressure loss measuring means for measuring the pressure loss value in the sub-stack is provided as the fuel gas switching timing confirmation means and the oxidizing gas switching timing confirmation means, and the control means is based on information from the pressure loss measuring means. When the pressure loss in the sub-stack located on the most downstream side in the gas flow direction becomes larger than a preset pressure loss reference value (the pressure loss increases as the amount of accumulated water in the flow path increases) The position switching means such as the valve and the gas leak means are controlled.

(6) As a fuel gas switching timing confirmation means or an oxidizing gas switching timing confirmation means, an outlet pressure measuring means for measuring the pressure of the gas outlet portion of the sub-stack is provided, and the control means is configured to control the outlet pressure. Based on the information from the measuring means, when the pressure of the gas outlet portion of the sub-stack located on the most downstream side in the gas flow direction becomes smaller than a preset pressure reference value (the flow path When the amount of accumulated water increases, the pressure decreases), and the position switching means such as the valve and the gas leak means are controlled.

  Moreover, in each embodiment mentioned above, the said control apparatuses 140,240,340 open and close the said valves 104-106,201 for every preset operating time based on the information from the said timer. However, as another embodiment, for example, a water level measuring means for measuring the water level in the drain traps 121 to 123 and the water storage tank 252 is provided, and the drain trap 121 is provided. When the water level in the water storage tank 252 exceeds a specified value, the control means opens and closes the valves 104 to 106 and 201 based on information from the water level measurement means, thereby generating the generated water 2 And a current amount measuring means for measuring the amount of current flowing through the sub-stacks 112 and 113 are provided. Based on the information from the quantity measuring means, the generated water 2 is sent out by opening and closing the valves 104 to 106 and 201 based on the integrated value of the amount of current flowing through the sub-stacks 112 and 113. It is also possible to make it.

  Further, in each of the embodiments described above, for example, the amount of electric power taken out only from the sub stack located on the most downstream side in the gas flow direction is reduced (the supply amount of source gas such as hydrogen gas or oxygen gas to be supplied is also reduced). Operation of the sub-stack located in the most downstream side can reduce the amount of generated water per unit time generated in the flow path. It is possible to set a longer switching interval.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the case where the first sub-stack 111 having a single structure is applied has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other embodiments include, for example, a plurality of divided sub-stacks. It is also possible to configure the first sub-stack by connecting stacks. Here, the first sub-stack is configured so that the number of stacked cells in each divided sub-stack is the same, and the divided sub-stack located downstream in the flow direction of the raw material gas has a greater number of cells. It is also possible to reduce the number of stacked layers. At this time, it is preferable that the gas-liquid separation means for fuel gas and the gas-liquid separation means for oxidizing gas are respectively disposed in the fuel gas flow path and the oxidizing gas flow path between the divided sub-stacks.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, the case where the second sub-stack 112 and the third sub-stack 113 having a single structure are applied has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other embodiments are described. For example, it is also possible to configure a second substack and a third substack by connecting a plurality of divided substacks. Here, in the second and third sub-stacks, it is possible to configure each of the divided sub-stacks so that the number of stacked cells is the same, that is, the power generation capacity of each divided sub-stack is the same. Of course, the divided sub-stacks positioned on the downstream side in the flow direction of the source gas can be configured so that the number of stacked cells is reduced, that is, the power generation capacity is reduced. At this time, it is preferable that the gas-liquid separation means for fuel gas and the gas-liquid separation means for oxidizing gas are respectively disposed in the fuel gas flow path and the oxidizing gas flow path between the divided sub-stacks.

  The second and third sub-stacks are provided with only one cell, that is, each of the sub-stacks is configured to have a single structure with the smallest power generation capacity. It is most preferable because the decrease in power generation performance of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell due to water staying in the gas flow path of the sub stack can be minimized.

  The polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to the present invention can improve the power efficiency of the entire system while using the raw material gas with high efficiency, and thus can be used extremely beneficially in various industries. .

It is a schematic block diagram of the principal part of 1st embodiment of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system which concerns on this invention. FIG. 2 is an operation explanatory diagram of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system of FIG. 1. It is a schematic block diagram of the principal part of 2nd embodiment of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system which concerns on this invention. It is a schematic block diagram of the principal part of 3rd embodiment of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system which concerns on this invention. It is a schematic block diagram of the principal part of 4th embodiment of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system which concerns on this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Hydrogen gas 2 Generated water 3 Oxygen gas 100 Solid polymer fuel cell power generation system 101-106 Valve 110 Solid polymer fuel cell 111-113 Substack 121-123 Drain trap 130 Hydrogen gas cylinder 140 Controller 200 Solid polymer type Fuel cell power generation system 201 Valve 240 Controller 251 Purifier 252 Water tank 300 Polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system 301, 302 Valve 340 Controller 400 Polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system 453 Membrane humidifier

Claims (13)

A polymer electrolyte fuel cell in which a cell in which a solid polymer electrolyte membrane is sandwiched between a fuel electrode and an oxidation electrode and a separator in which a flow path for fuel gas and oxidation gas is formed;
Fuel gas supply means for supplying fuel gas to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell;
An oxidant gas supply means for supplying an oxidant gas to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell;
The polymer electrolyte fuel cell is
A first substack in which the cells and the separator are stacked;
A second substack in which the cells and the separator are stacked;
A third sub-stack in which the cells and the separator are stacked, and
Of all the cells constituting the polymer electrolyte fuel cell,
The second sub-stack and the third sub-stack each comprise the same number of the cells of 25% or less;
The first sub-stack comprises the remaining cells;
A fuel gas inlet of the first sub-stack is connected to the fuel gas supply means;
A fuel gas outlet of the first substack is connected to a fuel gas inlet of the second substack and a fuel gas inlet of the third substack;
The fuel gas outlet of the second sub-stack is connected to the fuel gas inlet of the third sub-stack,
The fuel gas outlet of the third sub-stack is connected to the fuel gas inlet of the second sub-stack,
A gas-liquid separation means for fuel gas respectively disposed in a flow path of the fuel gas between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell;
For fuel gas that cuts or connects between the fuel gas outlet of the first sub-stack and the fuel gas inlet of the second sub-stack and the fuel gas inlet of the third sub-stack, respectively. First switching means;
Between the fuel gas outlet of the second sub-stack and the fuel gas inlet of the third sub-stack and between the fuel gas outlet of the third sub-stack and the second sub-stack Fuel gas second switching means for cutting or connecting to each of the fuel gas receiving ports;
The operating time, the amount of fuel gas supplied from the fuel gas supply means, the amount of current flowing through the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, the cell of the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell Voltage value, moisture content in the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, pressure loss value in the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, the fuel gas in the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell A fuel gas switching timing confirmation means for measuring at least one of the pressure values at the discharge port portion,
Based on the information from the fuel gas switching timing confirmation means, the fuel gas switch is arranged so that one of the second sub-stack and the third sub-stack is positioned on the most downstream side in the flow direction of the fuel gas. A solid polymer fuel cell power generation system, comprising: a switching means; and a control means for controlling the second switching means for fuel gas. A polymer electrolyte fuel cell in which a cell in which a solid polymer electrolyte membrane is sandwiched between a fuel electrode and an oxidation electrode and a separator in which a flow path of fuel gas and oxidizing gas is formed;
Fuel gas supply means for supplying fuel gas to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell;
An oxidant gas supply means for supplying an oxidant gas to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell;
The polymer electrolyte fuel cell is
A first substack in which the cells and the separator are stacked;
A second substack in which the cells and the separator are stacked;
A third sub-stack in which the cells and the separator are stacked, and
Of all the cells constituting the polymer electrolyte fuel cell,
The second sub-stack and the third sub-stack each comprise the same number of the cells of 25% or less;
The first sub-stack comprises the remaining cells;
The oxidizing gas inlet of the first sub-stack is connected to the oxidizing gas supply means;
The oxidizing gas outlet of the first sub-stack is connected to the oxidizing gas inlet of the second sub-stack and the oxidizing gas inlet of the third sub-stack;
The oxidizing gas outlet of the second sub-stack is connected to the oxidizing gas inlet of the third sub-stack,
The oxidizing gas outlet of the third sub-stack is connected to the oxidizing gas inlet of the second sub-stack,
A gas-liquid separation means for oxidizing gas respectively disposed in a flow path of the oxidizing gas between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell;
For oxidizing gas that cuts or connects between the oxidizing gas outlet of the first sub-stack and the oxidizing gas inlet of the second sub-stack and the oxidizing gas inlet of the third sub-stack, respectively. First switching means;
Between the oxidizing gas outlet of the second substack and the oxidizing gas inlet of the third substack and between the oxidizing gas outlet of the third substack and the second substack A second switching means for oxidizing gas that cuts or connects between each of the oxidizing gas inlets;
The operating time, the amount of the oxidizing gas supplied from the oxidizing gas supply means, the amount of current flowing through the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, the cell of the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell Voltage value, moisture content in the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, pressure loss value in the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, the oxidizing gas in the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell A switching time confirmation means for oxidizing gas for measuring at least one of the pressure values of the discharge port portion of
Based on the information from the oxidant gas switching timing confirmation means, the oxidant gas first so that one of the second sub-stack and the third sub-stack is positioned on the most downstream side in the flow direction of the oxidant gas. And a control means for controlling the second switching means for the oxidizing gas. In the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to claim 1,
The oxidizing gas inlet of the first sub-stack is connected to the oxidizing gas supply means;
The oxidizing gas outlet of the first sub-stack is connected to the oxidizing gas inlet of the second sub-stack and the oxidizing gas inlet of the third sub-stack;
The oxidizing gas outlet of the second sub-stack is connected to the oxidizing gas inlet of the third sub-stack,
The oxidizing gas outlet of the third sub-stack is connected to the oxidizing gas inlet of the second sub-stack,
A gas-liquid separation means for oxidizing gas respectively disposed in a flow path of the oxidizing gas between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell;
For oxidizing gas that cuts or connects between the oxidizing gas outlet of the first sub-stack and the oxidizing gas inlet of the second sub-stack and the oxidizing gas inlet of the third sub-stack, respectively. First switching means;
Between the oxidizing gas outlet of the second substack and the oxidizing gas inlet of the third substack and between the oxidizing gas outlet of the third substack and the second substack A second switching means for oxidizing gas that cuts or connects between each of the oxidizing gas inlets;
The operating time, the amount of the oxidizing gas supplied from the oxidizing gas supply means, the amount of current flowing through the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, the cell of the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell Voltage value, moisture content in the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, pressure loss value in the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, the oxidizing gas in the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell An oxidant gas switching time confirmation means for measuring at least one of the pressure values at the discharge port portion of
The control means further positions one of the second sub-stack and the third sub-stack on the most downstream side in the flow direction of the oxidizing gas based on information from the oxidizing gas switching timing confirmation means. As described above, the first switching means for the oxidizing gas and the second switching means for the oxidizing gas are controlled as described above. In the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to any one of claims 1 and 3,
The control means temporarily supplies the fuel gas from the first sub-stack to both the second sub-stack and the third sub-stack, and then is positioned on the most downstream side in the flow direction of the fuel gas. The solid polymer fuel cell power generation system is characterized in that the first switching means for fuel gas and the second switching means for fuel gas are controlled so as to switch the sub stack. In the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to any one of claims 2 and 3,
The control means once supplies the oxidizing gas from the first sub-stack to both the second sub-stack and the third sub-stack, and then is positioned on the most downstream side in the flow direction of the oxidizing gas. The solid polymer fuel cell power generation system is characterized in that the first switching means for oxidizing gas and the second switching means for oxidizing gas are controlled so as to switch the sub stack. In the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to any one of claims 1, 3 and 4,
It is disposed between the fuel gas supply means and the fuel gas inlet of the first sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, and stores water separated by the gas-liquid separation means for fuel gas. And a water storage tank for bringing the fuel gas into contact with the water. A solid polymer fuel cell power generation system, comprising: In the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to any one of claims 2, 3, and 5,
It is disposed between the oxidizing gas supply means and the oxidizing gas inlet of the first sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, and stores water separated by the gas-liquid separation means for oxidizing gas. In addition, a solid polymer fuel cell power generation system comprising a water storage tank that brings the oxidizing gas into contact with the water. In the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to any one of claims 1, 3, 4, and 6,
A membrane humidifier for humidifying the fuel gas supplied to the fuel gas supply port of the sub-stack by water in the fuel gas discharged from the fuel gas discharge port of the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell A polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system characterized by comprising: In the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to any one of claims 2, 3, 5, and 7,
A membrane humidifier that humidifies the oxidizing gas supplied to the oxidizing gas supply port of the sub-stack with water in the oxidizing gas discharged from the oxidizing gas discharge port of the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell A polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system characterized by comprising: The polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to any one of claims 1, 3, 4, 6, and 8,
A solid polymer fuel cell power generation system comprising gas leak means for leaking gas inside the gas-liquid separation means for fuel gas to the outside of the system. The polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to any one of claims 2, 3, 5, 7, and 9,
A solid polymer fuel cell power generation system comprising gas leak means for leaking gas inside the gas-liquid separation means for oxidizing gas to the outside of the system. The polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to any one of claims 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, and 10,
The fuel gas supply means supplies hydrogen gas having a concentration of 99% or more. A solid polymer fuel cell power generation system, wherein: The polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to any one of claims 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11,
The solid polymer fuel cell power generation system, characterized in that the oxidizing gas supply means supplies oxygen gas having a concentration of 99% or more.

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