JP2011129396A - Solid polymer fuel cell power generation system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a solid polymer fuel cell power generation system capable of continuing power generation operation without a problem even if there occurs an abnormality in a switching means to switch over the position of sub-stacks against the gas circulation direction. <P>SOLUTION: The power generation system has a first and a second sub-stacks 111, 112 connected so that a circulation route of hydrogen gas 1 may be in a series loop form, and is provided with main valves 101, 102 which connects and cut between a hydrogen gas supply source 130 and each sub-stacks 111, 112, main valves 103, 104 which connect and cut between the sub-stacks 111, 112, sub-valves 101b-104b installed in series and bypass valves 101a-104a installed in parallel to the valves 101-104, and a control device 140 which controls the valves 101-104 so as to switch over the positions of the sub-stacks 111-112 in gas circulation direction, and controls the valves 101a-104a, 101b-104b based on an information from voltmeters 141, 142. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system.

  A polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system 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, and a flow path of a fuel gas containing hydrogen gas And a polymer electrolyte fuel cell that is formed by alternately laminating a plurality of conductive separators, each of which is formed with a flow path for oxidizing gas containing oxygen gas, and the cell of the fuel cell. When the fuel gas is supplied to the fuel electrode side and the oxidizing gas is supplied to the oxidation electrode side of the cell, the hydrogen gas and the oxygen gas react electrochemically in the cell to generate electric power. Be able to. The spent fuel gas and the oxidizing gas are discharged to the outside of the fuel cell together with the generated water generated by the electrochemical reaction.

  In such a polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system, when hydrogen gas itself is used as the fuel gas and oxygen gas itself is used as the oxidizing gas, it is disclosed, for example, in Patent Documents 1 and 2 listed below. As shown, a plurality of (for example, two) sub-stacks in which a plurality of cells and separators are alternately stacked are connected so that each of the gas flow paths has a series loop shape, thereby forming a polymer electrolyte fuel cell. Then, by opening and closing the valve so as to switch the sub-stack located on the upstream side in the gas flow direction and the sub-stack located on the downstream side in the gas flow direction at a predetermined period, The generated water can be discharged to the outside without stagnation in the sub-stack while consuming almost all of the gas in the power generation operation. There are things was Unishi.

JP 2008-147178 A JP 2008-147179 A JP 2009-026632 A JP 2009-158209 A

  By the way, in the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2 and the like, for example, some abnormality occurs in the valve that switches the position of the sub stack with respect to the gas flow direction every predetermined period, and the sub If a problem occurs in switching the stack, there is a possibility that the power generation operation cannot be performed in a short time.

  For this reason, the present invention provides a polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system that can continue power generation operation without any problem even if an abnormality occurs in the switching means that switches the position of the sub-stack with respect to the gas flow direction. The purpose is to do.

  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 in which a plurality of separators are alternately stacked; fuel gas supply means for supplying a fuel gas to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell; and an oxidizing gas for the polymer electrolyte fuel cell The solid polymer fuel cell includes a plurality of sub-stacks in which the cells and the separators are alternately stacked so that a flow path of the fuel gas has a series loop shape. The fuel gas supply means is connected to a fuel gas inlet of each of the sub-stacks of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, and is connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell. Gas-liquid separation means for fuel gas respectively disposed in the flow path of the fuel gas between the sub-stacks, the fuel gas supply means, and the sub-stacks of the polymer electrolyte fuel cells The most upstream position switching means for fuel gas that cuts or connects between each of the fuel gas inlets and the flow path of the fuel gas between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, respectively. Or the most downstream position switching means for the fuel gas to be connected, the operation time, 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 solid The voltage value of the cells in the sub-stack of the polymer fuel cell, the amount of moisture in the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, the sub-cell of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell A fuel gas switching timing confirmation means for measuring at least one of a pressure loss value in a fuel cell and a pressure value of the fuel gas outlet of the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell; and the fuel Based on the information from the gas switching timing confirmation means, the fuel gas uppermost stream position switching means is configured to switch the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell located on the most upstream side in the fuel gas flow direction. And control means for controlling the fuel gas most downstream position switching means so as to switch the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell located on the most downstream side in the fuel gas flow direction. In the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system, between the fuel gas supply means and the fuel gas inlet of each sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, respectively Without going through the most upstream position switching means for fuel gas and the most upstream position switching means for fuel gas provided in series with the most upstream position switching means for fuel gas so as to be disconnected or connected, Parallel to the most upstream position switching means for the fuel gas so as to cut or connect between the fuel gas supply means and the fuel gas inlet of each of the sub-stacks of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell. The fuel gas-use fuel gas so as to cut or connect the flow path of the fuel gas between the provided fuel gas most upstream position switching bypass means and the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell. The fuel gas most downstream position switching sub-unit provided in series with the most downstream position switching means, and the solid height component without passing through the fuel gas most downstream position switching means. The fuel gas outermost section provided in parallel with the fuel gas most downstream position switching means so as to cut or connect the fuel gas flow path between the sub-stacks connected to the fuel cell. Downstream position switching bypass means, voltage values of the cells of the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, pressures of the fuel gas inlet and outlet portions of the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell A switching failure detection means for fuel gas that measures at least one of a value and a flow rate of the fuel gas in the fuel gas inlet and outlet portions of the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell; The control means is further configured based on information from the fuel gas switching failure detection means, and the fuel gas supply means and each of the polymer electrolyte fuel cells. The fuel gas most upstream position switching sub means and the fuel gas most downstream position switching bypass means are respectively controlled so as to cut or connect between the fuel gas inlets of the stack and the solid polymer type. The fuel gas most downstream position switching sub means and the fuel gas most downstream position switching bypass means are respectively connected to cut or connect the flow path of the fuel gas between the sub stacks connected to the fuel cell. It is what controls.

  The polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to the second invention comprises a cell having a solid polymer electrolyte membrane sandwiched between a fuel electrode and an oxidation electrode, and a separator having a flow path for the fuel gas and the oxidation gas. A plurality of polymer electrolyte fuel cells alternately stacked, a fuel gas supply means for supplying a fuel gas to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, and an oxidizing gas supply means for supplying an oxidizing gas to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell A plurality of sub-stacks in which a plurality of the cells and the separators are alternately stacked, and a plurality of the sub-stacks connected in a series loop form, The oxidizing gas supply means is connected to the oxidizing gas inlet of each of the sub-stacks of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, and the same as the sub-stack connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell. Gas-liquid separating means for oxidizing gas respectively disposed in the flow path of the oxidizing gas between the oxidizing gas supply means, the oxidizing gas supply means, and the oxidizing gas inlet of each sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell; The most upstream position switching means for oxidizing gas that cuts or connects each of them, and the oxidizing gas that cuts or connects the flow path of the oxidizing gas between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, respectively Most downstream position switching means, operating time, supply amount of the oxidizing gas from the oxidizing gas supply means, amount of current flowing through the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, the polymer electrolyte fuel cell A voltage value of the cell of the sub-stack, 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, Information from switching time confirmation means for oxidizing gas that measures at least one of the pressure values of the outlet portion of the oxidizing gas in the sub-stack of the polymer fuel cell, and information from the switching time confirmation means for the oxidizing gas And controlling the oxidizing gas most upstream position switching means to switch the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell located on the most upstream side in the flowing direction of the oxidizing gas, and the flow of the oxidizing gas A polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system comprising control means for controlling the most downstream position switching means for oxidizing gas so as to switch the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell located on the most downstream side in the direction The oxidizing gas supply means and the oxidizing gas inlet of each of the sub-stacks of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell are disconnected or connected in advance. An oxidizing gas upstream flow position switching sub-unit provided in series with the oxidizing gas upstream flow position switching means, and the oxidizing gas supply means without passing through the oxidizing gas upstream flow position switching means; For the oxidizing gas provided in parallel with the most upstream position switching means for the oxidizing gas so as to cut or connect the oxidizing gas inlet of each of the sub-stacks of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell. The most downstream position switching means for the oxidizing gas so as to cut off or connect the flow path of the oxidizing gas between the most upstream position switching bypass means and the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, respectively. Before connecting the solid polymer fuel cell without passing through the downstreammost position switching sub means for oxidizing gas provided in series and the downstreammost position switching means for oxidizing gas. Oxidizing gas most downstream position switching bypass means provided in parallel with the oxidizing gas most downstream position switching means so as to cut or connect the flow path of the oxidizing gas between the sub-stacks, respectively, The voltage value of the cells of the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, the pressure values of the oxidizing gas inlet and outlet portions of the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, the solid polymer type An oxidizing gas switching failure detecting means for measuring at least one of the oxidizing gas flow rate of the oxidizing gas inlet and outlet portions of the sub-stack of the fuel cell; and the control means Further, based on information from the oxidizing gas switching failure detecting means, the oxidizing gas supply means and the oxidation gas of each of the sub-stacks of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell The oxidant gas most upstream position switching sub-unit and the oxidant gas most downstream position switching bypass unit are controlled so as to be disconnected or connected to the receiving port, respectively, and the solid polymer fuel cell is connected. The oxidizing gas most downstream position switching sub means and the oxidizing gas most downstream position switching bypass means are respectively controlled so as to cut or connect the flow path of the oxidizing gas between the sub stacks. It is characterized by that.

  In addition, the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to the third aspect of the invention is that, in the first aspect of the invention, the polymer electrolyte fuel cell further makes the flow path of the oxidizing gas a series loop. A plurality of the substacks connected to each other, and the oxidizing gas supply means is connected to the oxidizing gas inlets of the substacks of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, respectively, and the polymer electrolyte fuel cell Gas-liquid separating means for oxidizing gas respectively disposed in the flow path of the oxidizing gas between the sub-stacks connected to each other, the oxidizing gas supply means, and the sub-stacks of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell Between the oxidant gas most upstream position switching means for cutting or connecting each of the oxidant gas inlets and the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell The most downstream position switching means for oxidizing gas for cutting or connecting the flow path of the oxidizing gas respectively, the operating time, the amount of the oxidizing gas supplied from the oxidizing gas supply means, the above-mentioned of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell The amount of current flowing through the sub-stack, the voltage value of the cell 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 amount of water in 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 and a pressure value of the oxidizing gas outlet of the sub stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell; The most upstream position switching means for oxidizing gas so as to cut or connect between the oxidizing gas supply means and the oxidizing gas inlet of each sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell. The oxidant gas most upstream position switching sub-unit provided in series, and the oxidant gas supply means and the polymer electrolyte fuel cell without passing through the oxidant gas most upstream position switching means. An oxidizing gas upstream-flow position switching bypass means provided in parallel to the oxidizing gas upstream-flow position switching means so as to cut or connect between the oxidizing gas inlets of the sub-stack, and the solid Oxidizing gas provided in series with the oxidizing gas most downstream position switching means so as to cut or connect the flow path of the oxidizing gas between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer fuel cell. The oxidation between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell without passing through the downstream most downstream position switching sub means and the most downstream position switching means for oxidizing gas An oxidizing gas most downstream position switching bypass means provided in parallel to the oxidizing gas most downstream position switching means so as to cut or connect the gas flow paths, respectively, and the polymer electrolyte fuel cell A voltage value of the cell of the substack, a pressure value of an inlet portion and an outlet portion of the oxidizing gas of the substack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, the pressure value of the substack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell An oxidizing gas switching failure detecting means for measuring at least one of the flow amount of the oxidizing gas at the inlet portion and the outlet portion of the oxidizing gas, and the control means confirms the switching timing for the oxidizing gas. Based on the information from the means, the most upstream flow for the oxidizing gas so as to switch the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell located on the most upstream side in the flow direction of the oxidizing gas Controlling the device switching means, and controlling the oxidizing gas most downstream position switching means so as to switch the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell located on the most downstream side in the flow direction of the oxidizing gas, Based on information from the oxidizing gas switching failure detecting means, the oxidizing gas supply means and the oxidizing gas inlet of each sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell are disconnected or connected to each other. The oxidant gas upstream flow position switching sub-unit and the oxidant gas downstream position switching bypass means are respectively controlled, and the flow of the oxidant gas between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell is performed. The oxidizing gas most downstream position switching sub means and the oxidizing gas most downstream position switching bypass means are respectively connected to cut or connect the paths. Characterized in that it is intended to respective control.

  The polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to a fourth invention is the fuel gas between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell in the first or third invention. The fuel gas pressure loss applying means for applying pressure loss to the fuel gas flowing through the flow path is provided.

  Further, the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to the fifth invention is the distribution path of the fuel gas between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell in the fourth invention. Fuel gas pressure loss application amount detecting means for detecting the flow rate of the fuel gas flowing through the fuel gas, the fuel gas pressure loss application means is an opening adjustment valve, and the control means is the fuel gas pressure loss application amount. Based on the information from the detection means, the opening degree adjusting valve is controlled so as to give a constant pressure loss to the fuel gas.

  The polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to a sixth invention is the fifth invention, wherein the fuel gas pressure loss application amount detecting means flows into the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell. The fuel gas flow rate is measured in the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell.

  Moreover, the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to the seventh invention is the oxidation gas between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell in the second or third invention. And an oxidizing gas pressure loss applying means for applying a pressure loss to the oxidizing gas flowing through the flow path.

  Moreover, the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to an eighth aspect of the invention is the seventh aspect of the invention, wherein the flow path of the oxidizing gas between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell is the seventh invention. An oxidizing gas pressure loss applying amount detecting means for detecting the flow rate of the oxidizing gas flowing through the gas, the oxidizing gas pressure loss applying means being an opening adjustment valve, and the control means being the oxidizing gas pressure loss applying amount. Based on the information from the detection means, the opening degree adjusting valve is controlled so as to give a constant pressure loss to the oxidizing gas.

  Further, in the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to the ninth invention, in the eighth invention, the pressure loss applying amount detecting means for oxidizing gas flows into the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell. In addition, the flow rate of the oxidizing gas in the oxidizing gas outlet portion of the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell is measured.

  The polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to a tenth aspect of the invention is the first or third aspect of the invention, wherein the control means is located at the most downstream side in the fuel gas flow direction. The fuel gas most upstream position switching means and the fuel gas most downstream position switching means are controlled so that the sub-stack of the molecular fuel cell is positioned on the most upstream side in the flow direction of the fuel gas. Features.

  Further, in the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to the tenth invention, in the second or third invention, the control means is located on the most downstream side in the flow direction of the oxidizing gas. The oxidizing gas upstream flow position switching means and the oxidizing gas downstream position switching means are controlled so that the sub-stack of the polymer fuel cell is positioned on the upstream side in the flow direction of the oxidizing gas. It is characterized by.

  The polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to the twelfth invention is the solid polymer fuel cell power generation system according to the first or third invention, wherein the control means is located on the most upstream side in the fuel gas flow direction. The fuel gas most upstream position switching means and the fuel gas most downstream position switching means are controlled so that the sub-stack of the polymer fuel cell is positioned on the most downstream side in the flow direction of the fuel gas. It is characterized by.

  Further, in the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to the thirteenth invention, in the second or third invention, the control means is located on the most upstream side in the flow direction of the oxidizing gas. The oxidizing gas most upstream position switching means and the oxidizing gas most downstream position switching means are controlled so that the sub-stack of the polymer fuel cell is positioned on the most downstream side in the flow direction of the oxidizing gas. It is characterized by.

  In addition, the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to the fourteenth aspect of the invention is any one of the first, third, fourth to sixth, twelfth and twelfth aspects, wherein the fuel gas supply means has a concentration of 99. % Hydrogen gas is supplied.

  In addition, the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to the fifteenth aspect of the invention is any one of the second, third, seventh to ninth, eleventh, and thirteenth aspects, wherein the oxidizing gas supply means has a concentration. It is characterized by supplying 99% or more oxygen gas.

  According to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system of the present invention, even if a malfunction occurs in the most upstream position switching means and the most downstream position switching means, the control is performed based on information from the previous period switching malfunction detection means. By the means controlling the switching sub means and the switching bypass means, the power generation operation can be continued without any problem.

It is a schematic block diagram of the principal part by the side of the fuel gas system of 1st embodiment of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system which concerns on this invention. It is an operation explanatory view at the time of steady operation of the first embodiment of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to the present invention. It is operation | movement explanatory drawing at the time of abnormality generation | occurrence | production of 1st embodiment of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system which concerns on this invention. It is operation | movement explanatory drawing at the time of other abnormality generation | occurrence | production of 1st 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 by the side of the fuel gas system 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 by the side of the fuel gas system of 3rd embodiment of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system which concerns on this invention. It is a graph showing the relationship between the electric current value of the substack in the third embodiment of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to the present invention, the gas flow rate, the opening degree, and the pressure loss of the opening degree adjusting valve.

  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.

  As shown in FIG. 1, a solid polymer fuel cell 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 fuel gas flow path. And a plurality of (two in this embodiment) first and second sub-stacks 111 and 112, each of which is formed by alternately laminating a plurality of separators each having a flow path for oxidizing gas and having conductivity, The fuel gas flow path is connected to form a series loop, and the oxidation gas flow path is also connected to form a series loop.

  A hydrogen gas supply source 130 which is a fuel gas supply means for supplying hydrogen gas 1 having a concentration of 99% or more, which is a fuel gas, is connected to each fuel gas inlet of each of the sub stacks 111 and 112. Further, an oxygen gas supply source, which is an oxidizing gas supply means for supplying an oxygen gas having a concentration of 99% or more, which is an oxidizing gas, is connected to each oxidizing gas receiving port of each of the sub stacks 111 and 112 (not shown). ).

  Electromagnetic main valves 101 and 102 are respectively disposed between the hydrogen gas supply source 130 and the fuel gas inlets of the sub-stacks 111 and 112. Bypass lines 101B and 102B through which the hydrogen gas 1 flows without being routed are provided in parallel to the main valves 101 and 102, respectively. The bypass lines 101B and 102B are provided with electromagnetic bypass valves 101a and 102a, respectively.

  Further, between the hydrogen gas supply source 130 and the fuel gas inlets of the sub-stacks 111 and 112, more specifically, between the sub-stacks 111 and 112 and the main valves 101 and 102. The electromagnetic sub valves 101b and 102b are provided in series with the main valves 101 and 102, respectively.

  A drain trap that is a gas-liquid separation means for fuel gas is provided in the flow path of the hydrogen gas 1 between the fuel gas outlet of the first substack 111 and the fuel gas inlet of the second substack 112. 121 and an electromagnetic main valve 103 are interposed.

  A flow path of the hydrogen gas 1 between the fuel gas outlet of the first substack 111 and the fuel gas inlet of the second substack 112, more specifically, the drain trap 121 and Between the fuel gas inlet of the second sub-stack 112, a bypass line 103B for allowing the hydrogen gas 1 to flow without passing through the main valve 103 is provided in parallel to the main valve 103. It has been. The bypass line 103B is provided with an electromagnetic bypass valve 103a.

  Further, the flow path of the hydrogen gas 1 between the fuel gas outlet of the first substack 111 and the fuel gas inlet of the second substack 112, more specifically, the main valve 103 and An electromagnetic sub-valve 103 b is provided in series with the main valve 103 between the second sub-stack 112.

  A drain trap that is a gas-liquid separation means for fuel gas is provided in the flow path of the hydrogen gas 1 between the fuel gas outlet of the second substack 112 and the fuel gas inlet of the first substack 111. 122 and an electromagnetic main valve 104 are interposed.

  A flow path of hydrogen gas 1 between the fuel gas outlet of the second substack 112 and the fuel gas inlet of the first substack 111, more specifically, the drain trap 122 Between the fuel gas inlet of the first sub-stack 111, a bypass line 104B for allowing the hydrogen gas 1 to flow without passing through the main valve 104 is provided in parallel to the main valve 104. It has been. The bypass line 104B is provided with an electromagnetic bypass valve 104a.

  Further, the flow path of the hydrogen gas 1 between the fuel gas outlet of the second substack 112 and the fuel gas inlet of the first substack 111, more specifically, the main valve 104 and An electromagnetic sub-valve 104 b is provided in series with the main valve 104 between the first sub-stack 111.

  In such an embodiment, the main valve 101, 102 or the like constitutes the fuel gas most upstream position switching means, and the bypass line 101B, 102B, the bypass valve 101a, 102a or the like constitutes the most upstream position for fuel gas. The switching bypass means is configured, the sub-valves 101b, 102b, etc. constitute the fuel gas most upstream position switching sub-means, the main valves 103, 104, etc. constitute the fuel gas most downstream position switching means, and the bypass line The most downstream position switching bypass means for fuel gas is constituted by 103B, 104B, the bypass valves 103a, 104a, etc., and the most downstream position switching sub means for fuel gas is constituted by the sub valves 103b, 104b, etc.

  In order to avoid complication of the drawing, the oxidizing gas supply means, the oxidizing gas gas-liquid separation means, the oxidizing gas most upstream position switching means, the oxidizing gas most upstream position switching bypass means, the oxidizing gas maximum means, etc. Although the oxidizing gas system such as the upstream position switching sub means, the oxidizing gas most downstream position switching means, the oxidizing gas most downstream position switching bypass means, the oxidizing gas most downstream position switching sub means, etc. is omitted, Gas-liquid separation means for fuel gas, most upstream position switching means for fuel gas, most upstream position switching bypass means for fuel gas, most upstream position switching sub means for fuel gas, most downstream position switching means for fuel gas, fuel gas The most downstream position switching bypass means for fuel and the most downstream position switching sub means for fuel gas are configured in the same manner as the fuel gas system. Also, a temperature control system such as a temperature control water distribution means is provided in the same manner as in the case of a conventional polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system, although the description is omitted in order to avoid complication of the drawing. It has been.

  The substacks 111 and 112 include voltmeters 141 and 142 which are fuel gas switching failure detection means (also serving as oxidizing gas switching failure detection means) for measuring the voltage of the cells of the substacks 111 and 112. Are electrically connected to each other. These voltmeters 141 and 142 are each electrically connected to an input unit of a control device 140 that is a control means.

  The output unit of the control device 140 is electrically connected to the valves 101 to 104, 101a to 104a, and 101b to 104b, respectively. The control device 140 includes a fuel gas switching timing confirmation means (oxidation gas switching unit). The valves 101 to 104, 101a to 104a, and 101b to 104b are opened and closed based on information (operating time) from a built-in timer (not shown) that also serves as time confirmation means and information from the voltmeters 141 and 142. The most upstream position switching means for oxidizing gas, the most upstream position switching bypass means for oxidizing gas, the most upstream position switching sub means for oxidizing gas, the most downstream position switching means for oxidizing gas, and the oxidizing gas The most downstream position switching bypass means, the most downstream position switching sub means for oxidizing gas, etc. can be controlled. That (details will be described later).

  Next, the operation of the thus configured polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system 100 according to this embodiment will be described. Since the fuel gas system and the oxidizing gas system operate substantially in the same manner, the description on the fuel gas system side is replaced with the description on the oxidizing gas system side in order to avoid complication of the description, and the oxidizing gas system The detailed description of will be omitted.

  First, when the control device 140 is operated, the control device 140 closes the bypass valves 101a to 104a and opens the sub valves 101b to 104b, while closing the main valves 102 and 104, and These valves 101 to 104, 101a to 104a, and 101b to 104b are controlled so as to open the main valves 101 and 103 (see FIG. 2A).

  Thereby, the hydrogen gas 1 in the hydrogen gas supply source 130 is supplied to the fuel gas inlet of the first sub-stack 111 via the main valve 101 and the sub-valve 101b, and each of the separators. In the first sub-stack 111, the gas reacts with the oxygen gas of the oxidizing gas system in the cell to generate electric power, and the generated hydrogen gas 1 (about 1/2) The remaining about 1/2) is used to circulate through each of the flow paths together with the generated water 2 generated by the electrochemical reaction, and is discharged from the fuel gas discharge port. 2 is separated and then fed to the fuel gas inlet of the second sub-stack 112 via the main valve 103 and the sub-valve 103b, and flows through each flow path of each separator. And, in the second sub-stack 112, and electrochemically react with oxygen gas and the cells of the oxidizing gas system, power is generated.

  At this time, in the second sub-stack 112, most of the supplied hydrogen gas 1 (about the remaining half) is consumed and almost no gas is discharged from the fuel gas discharge port. The produced water 2 generated with the reaction starts to stay in the flow path gradually, and the power generation performance is lowered.

  Here, the control device 140 opens the main valves 102 and 104 and closes the main valves 101 and 103 when a preset operation time elapses based on information from the timer. The main valves 101 to 104 are controlled (see FIG. 2B).

  As a result, the hydrogen gas 1 at the entire flow rate from the hydrogen gas supply source 130 is supplied to the fuel gas inlet of the second sub stack 112 via the main valve 102 and the sub valve 102b, and each separator is supplied. In the second sub-stack 112, the water reacts with the oxygen gas of the oxidizing gas system and reacts electrochemically with the cell while extruding the water 3 staying in the flow path. (About half of the supply amount), electric power is generated, and used hydrogen gas 1 (about half of the used half) is newly generated along with the electrochemical reaction. The generated water 2 and the retained generated water 2 are circulated through the flow paths, discharged from the fuel gas discharge port, and separated from the generated water 2 by the drain trap 123. Then, the main valve 104 and the sub The fuel gas is supplied to the fuel gas inlet of the first sub-stack 111 via the lub 104b and flows through the flow paths of the separators. In the first sub-stack 111, the oxygen gas of the oxidizing gas system And electrochemically react in the cell to generate electric power.

  At this time, in the first sub-stack 111, most of the supplied hydrogen gas 1 (the remaining half) is consumed and almost no gas is discharged from the fuel gas discharge port. The produced water 2 generated with the reaction starts to stay in the flow path gradually, and the power generation performance is lowered.

  Here, the control device 140 opens the main valves 101 and 103 and closes the main valves 102 and 104 when a preset operation time elapses based on information from the timer. The main valves 101 to 104 are controlled (see FIG. 2A).

  Hereinafter, the control device 140 repeats the control of the main valves 101 to 104 described above, so that the polymer electrolyte fuel cell is located on the most upstream side and the most downstream side in the flow direction of the hydrogen gas 1. 111, 112 are sequentially switched in accordance with the elapsed operation time, that is, the sub stack (for example, the second sub stack 112) positioned on the most downstream side in the flow direction of the hydrogen gas 1 is moved to the most upstream side in the flow direction. Since the main valves 101 to 104 are controlled to be positioned so that the sub-stack (for example, the first sub-stack 111) positioned on the most upstream side in the flow direction is positioned on the most downstream side in the flow direction. Even without a gas circulation device such as a blower or an ejector, the generated water 2 can be discharged from the flow path, It is possible to use almost all power generation of hydrogen gas 1 is fed from the gas supply source 130.

  In addition, since the oxidizing gas system is configured and operated in the same manner as the above-described fuel gas system, the flow can be performed without a gas circulation device such as a blower or an ejector, as in the case of the above-described fuel gas system. The generated water 2 can be discharged from the inside of the road, and at the same time, almost all of the oxygen gas supplied from the oxygen gas supply source can be used for power generation (more specifically, Patent Documents 1, 2, etc.) reference).

  When the power generation operation is performed in this manner, if for some reason, for example, all the main valves 101 to 104 cannot be opened and remain closed, the sub stacks 111 and 112 are not closed. Since the hydrogen gas 1 is not supplied and the voltage of the cells of the substacks 111 and 112 is lowered, the control device 140 determines the substacks 111 and 112 based on information from the voltmeters 141 and 142. When the voltage value of the cell becomes equal to or less than a specified value, it is determined that the main valves 101 to 104 have malfunctioned, the bypass valves 101a and 103a are opened, and the sub valves 102b and 104b are closed. Controls the valves 101a, 103a, 102b, 104b (the bypass valve 102a 104a is closed, the sub-valve 101b, 103b are left open) (see FIG. 3A).

  As a result, the hydrogen gas 1 in the hydrogen gas supply source 130 is supplied to the fuel gas receiving port of the first substack 111 via the bypass valve 101a and the subvalve 101b, and the first substack. In 111, the oxygen gas of the oxidizing gas system is electrochemically reacted in the cell in the same manner as described above to generate electric power, and at the same time, the used hydrogen gas 1 (about half of the remaining used hydrogen gas is used). About 1/2) is discharged from the fuel gas discharge port in the same manner as described above, and is sent to the fuel gas reception port of the second sub stack 112 via the bypass valve 103a and the sub valve 103b. Then, in the second sub-stack 112, electric power is generated by electrochemically reacting with the oxygen gas of the oxidizing gas system in the cell in the same manner as described above.

  Then, the control device 140 opens the bypass valves 102a and 104a and the sub valves 102b and 104b when a preset operation time has elapsed based on the information from the timer, as described above. The valves 101a to 104a and 101b to 104b are controlled so as to close the bypass valves 101a and 103a and the sub valves 101b and 103b (see FIG. 3B).

  As a result, the hydrogen gas 1 at the entire flow rate from the hydrogen gas supply source 130 is supplied to the fuel gas inlet of the second sub stack 112 via the bypass valve 102a and the sub valve 102b, and the second gas is supplied to the second sub stack 112. In the sub-stack 112, the oxygen gas of the oxidizing gas system reacts electrochemically with the cell (about half of the supply amount) in the same manner as described above to generate electric power, and the used hydrogen gas 1 (The remaining about 1/2 used about 1/2) is discharged from the fuel gas outlet in the same manner as described above, and passes through the bypass valve 104a and the subvalve 104b to the first substack. 111, and in the first sub-stack 111, electrochemically reacts with oxygen gas of the oxidizing gas system in the cell in the same manner as described above, Force is generated.

  Subsequently, as described above, the control device 140 opens the bypass valves 101a and 103a and the sub valves 101b and 103b when a preset operation time has elapsed based on information from the timer. The valves 101a to 104a and 101b to 104b are controlled so as to close the bypass valves 102a and 104a and the sub valves 102b and 104b (see FIG. 3A).

  Hereinafter, the control device 140 repeats the control of the bypass valves 101a to 104a and the sub valves 101b to 104b described above, so that the control device 140 does not depend on the opening failure of the main valves 101 to 104, and similarly to the above description. The sub stacks 111 and 112 can be switched sequentially in accordance with the operation elapsed time without any problem.

  Since the oxidant gas system is also configured and operated in the same manner as the fuel gas system described above, as in the case of the fuel gas system described above, the above description is not affected by the opening failure of the main valve. Similarly, the sub-stacks 111 and 112 can be switched sequentially in accordance with the elapsed operation time without any problem.

  For some reason, for example, if all the main valves 101 to 104 cannot be closed and remain open, both the first sub-stack 111 and the second sub-stack 112 are Thus, half of the total supply amount of hydrogen gas 1 is supplied at the same time, and both of the substacks 111 and 112 cannot discharge the generated water 2 from the inside, and the generated water is supplied into the substacks 111 and 112. 2 stays, and the voltage of the cells of the substacks 111 and 112 decreases, so that the control device 140 determines the cells of the substacks 111 and 112 based on information from the voltmeters 141 and 142. When the voltage value of the main valve 101-104 becomes equal to or less than the specified value, it is determined that the main valves 101 to 104 have failed, as in the case described above. The valves 101a, 103a, 102b, 104b are controlled so that the pass valves 101a, 103a are opened and the sub valves 102b, 104b are closed (the bypass valves 102a, 104a are closed, and the sub valves 101b, 103b are opened). (See Fig. 4A).

  Accordingly, the hydrogen gas 1 in the hydrogen gas supply source 130 is supplied to the fuel gas inlet of the first substack 111 via the valves 101, 101 a, 101 b, and the first substack 111 In the same manner as described above, oxygen reacts with the oxygen gas of the oxidizing gas system in the cell to generate electric power, and at the same time, the used hydrogen gas 1 (about half of the remaining used hydrogen gas is used). About 1/2) is discharged from the fuel gas discharge port in the same manner as described above, and is sent to the fuel gas receiving port of the second sub-stack 112 via the valves 103, 103a, 103b, In the second sub-stack 112, electric power is generated by electrochemically reacting with the oxygen gas of the oxidizing gas system in the cell in the same manner as described above.

  Then, similarly to the case described above, the control device 140 opens the bypass valves 102a and 104a and the sub valves 102b and 104b when a preset operation time has passed based on the information from the timer. At the same time, the valves 101a to 104a and 101b to 104b are controlled so as to close the bypass valves 101a and 103a and the sub valves 101b and 103b (see FIG. 4B).

  As a result, the hydrogen gas 1 at the entire flow rate from the hydrogen gas supply source 130 is supplied to the fuel gas inlet of the second sub-stack 112 via the valves 102, 102a, 102b, and the second gas In the sub-stack 112, the oxygen gas of the oxidizing gas system reacts electrochemically with the cell (about half of the supply amount) in the same manner as described above to generate electric power, and the used hydrogen gas 1 ( About half of the remaining half used) is discharged from the fuel gas outlet in the same manner as described above, and the first sub-stack 111 passes through the valves 104, 104a, 104b. In the first sub-stack 111, electric power is generated in the first sub-stack 111 by electrochemically reacting with the oxygen gas of the oxidizing gas system in the cell in the same manner as described above.

  Subsequently, as in the case described above, the control device 140 opens the bypass valves 101a and 103a and the sub valves 101b and 103b when a preset operation time has elapsed based on information from the timer. At the same time, the valves 101a to 104a and 101b to 104b are controlled so as to close the bypass valves 102a and 104a and the sub valves 102b and 104b (see FIG. 4A).

  Hereinafter, the control device 140 depends on the closing failure of the main valves 101 to 104 by repeating the control of the bypass valves 101a to 104a and the sub valves 101b to 104b as described above. In the same manner as described above, the sub-stacks 111 and 112 can be switched sequentially corresponding to the elapsed operation time without any problem.

  Since the oxidant gas system is also configured and operated in the same manner as the above-described fuel gas system, as in the case of the above-described fuel gas system, the above explanation is not affected by the malfunction of the main valve. Similarly, the sub-stacks 111 and 112 can be switched sequentially in accordance with the elapsed operation time without any problem.

  Therefore, according to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system 100 according to the present embodiment, even if an abnormality occurs in the main valves 101 to 104 that switch the positions of the sub stacks 111 and 112 with respect to the gas flow direction, the power generation operation is performed. Can continue without problems.

[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. However, with respect to the same parts as those in the above-described embodiment, the same reference numerals as those used in the description of the above-described embodiment are attached to the drawings, and the description overlapping with the description in the above-described embodiment is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 5, in the vicinity of the fuel gas inlets of the sub-stacks 111 and 112, inlet pressure gauges 243 and 244 for measuring the pressure of the fuel gas inlet portions of the sub-stacks 111 and 112 are provided. Each is provided. In the vicinity of the fuel gas discharge port of the sub stacks 111 and 112, outlet pressure gauges 244 and 246 for measuring the pressure of the fuel gas discharge port portions of the sub stacks 111 and 112 are provided, respectively.

  In this embodiment, the pressure gauges 243 to 246 constitute fuel gas switching failure detection means.

  Also in this embodiment, in order to avoid complication of the drawing, although the description of the oxidizing gas system such as the oxidizing gas switching failure detecting means is omitted, the above-described fuel gas switching failure detecting means and the like are omitted. It is configured in the same manner as the fuel gas system.

  The pressure gauges 243 to 246 are electrically connected to input portions of a control device 240 serving as control means. The output unit of the control device 240 is electrically connected to the valves 101 to 104, 101a to 104a, and 101b to 104b, respectively. The control device 240 is a fuel gas switching timing confirmation means (oxidizing gas switching unit). The valves 101 to 104, 101a to 104a, and 101b to 104b are opened and closed based on information (operating time) from a built-in timer (not shown) that is also a timing confirmation means and information from the pressure gauges 243 to 246. The most upstream position switching means for oxidizing gas, the most upstream position switching bypass means for oxidizing gas, the most upstream position switching sub means for oxidizing gas, the most downstream position switching means for oxidizing gas, and the oxidizing gas The downstream most downstream position switching bypass means, the most downstream position switching sub means for oxidizing gas, and the like are also controlled in the same manner as in the above-described embodiment. (It will be described later differs from the previously described embodiments) that is to be able to.

  In such a polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system 200 according to this embodiment, the above-described operation is performed in the same manner as in the case of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system 100 according to the first embodiment described above. As in the case of the first embodiment, the generated water 2 can be discharged from the sub-stacks 111 and 112 without using a gas circulation device such as a blower or an ejector. Almost all of the hydrogen gas 1 from 130 and the oxygen gas from the oxygen gas supply source can be used for power generation.

  And, when performing a power generation operation, if there is a problem in the opening and closing of the main valves 101 to 104 for some reason, the control device 240, based on information from the pressure gauges 243 to 246, the following In response to the conditions shown in Table 1, the main valves 101 to 104 are determined to have malfunctioned, and the opening and closing operations of the bypass valves 101a to 104a and the sub valves 101b to 104b are further controlled.

  In the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system 200 according to the present embodiment, the operation of the bypass valves 101a to 104a and the sub valves 101b to 104b depends on the opening / closing failure of the main valves 101 to 104. In the same manner as described above, the sub-stacks 111 and 112 can be switched sequentially corresponding to the elapsed operation time without any problem.

  Since the oxidant gas system is also configured and operated in the same manner as the above-described fuel gas system, the same as in the case of the above-described fuel gas system, the above description is not affected by the opening / closing malfunction of the main valve. Similarly, the sub-stacks 111 and 112 can be switched sequentially in accordance with the elapsed operation time without any problem.

  That is, in the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system 100 according to the first embodiment described above, the information from the voltmeters 141 and 142 is used to detect whether or not the main valves 101 to 104 are open / closed. The bypass valves 101a to 104a and the sub valves 101b to 104b are all controlled at the same time. In the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system 200 according to this embodiment, information from the pressure gauges 243 to 246 is used. Thus, the main valves 101 to 104 in which the malfunction has occurred are identified and the malfunction state is identified, and only the bypass valves 101a to 104a and the sub valves 101b to 104b that are necessary for solving the malfunction are controlled. I did it.

  For this reason, in the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system 200 according to the present embodiment, the bypass valves 101a to 104a and the sub valves 101b to 104b that do not need to be operated can be dispensed with. It is possible to reduce the waste of operating power required for the valves 101a to 104a and 101b to 104b to be eliminated.

  Therefore, according to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system 200 according to the present embodiment, it is possible to obtain the same effect as that of the above-described embodiment, and it is possible to save more than the case of the above-described embodiment. The problem can be solved with electric power.

[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 FIGS. However, with respect to the same parts as those in the above-described embodiment, the same reference numerals as those used in the description of the above-described embodiment are attached to the drawings, and the description overlapping with the description in the above-described embodiment is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the flow direction of the hydrogen gas 1 downstream of the sub valve 103a between the fuel gas outlet of the first sub stack 111 and the fuel gas inlet of the second sub stack 112 is shown. An electromagnetic opening degree adjusting valve 351 is provided in the vicinity position. A position near the downstream side in the flow direction of the hydrogen gas 1 of the sub valve 104a between the fuel gas discharge port of the second sub stack 112 and the fuel gas inlet of the first sub stack 111 is an electromagnetic type. The opening degree adjusting valve 352 is provided.

  In the present embodiment, the opening adjustment valves 351, 352 and the like constitute fuel gas pressure loss applying means.

  Also in this embodiment, in order to avoid complication of the drawing, although the description of the oxidizing gas system such as the oxidizing gas pressure loss applying means is omitted, the fuel gas such as the fuel gas pressure loss applying means described above is omitted. It is configured in the same way as the system.

  The sub-stacks 111 and 112 include ammeters 347 and 348 which are fuel gas pressure loss application amount detection means (also serving as oxidation gas pressure loss application amount detection means) for measuring the amount of current flowing through the sub stacks 111 and 112. Are electrically connected to each other. These ammeters 347 and 348 and the pressure gauges 243 to 246 are electrically connected to input portions of a control device 340 which is a control means.

  The output unit of the control device 340 is electrically connected to the valves 101 to 104, 101a to 104a, 101b to 104b, 351 and 352, respectively, and the control device 240 includes a fuel gas switching timing confirmation means ( Based on the information (operating time) from a built-in timer (not shown) that also serves as an oxidizing gas switching time confirmation means and information from the pressure gauges 243 to 246 and the ammeters 347 and 348, the valves 101 to 104, 101a to 104a, 101b to 104b, 351, and 352 are controlled, and the most upstream position switching means for oxidizing gas, the most upstream position switching bypass means for oxidizing gas, and the most upstream position switching sub for oxidizing gas. Means, the most downstream position switching means for oxidizing gas, the most downstream position switching bypass means for oxidizing gas, the oxidation gas Use the most downstream position switching sub unit (will be described later is different from the above-described embodiment) so it is possible to control as in the embodiment also described above oxidizing gas pressure drop applying means and the like.

  The polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system 300 according to this embodiment is operated in the same manner as the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation systems 100 and 200 according to the first and second embodiments described above. Thus, as in the case of the first and second embodiments described above, the produced water 2 can be discharged from the sub-stacks 111 and 112 without a gas circulation device such as a blower or an ejector. At the same time, almost all of the hydrogen gas 1 from the hydrogen gas supply source 130 and the oxygen gas from the oxygen gas supply source can be used for power generation.

  Further, the control device 340 determines the opening degree based on information from the ammeters 347 and 348 so as to give a constant pressure loss P1 to the hydrogen gas 1 flowing through the opening degree adjusting valves 351 and 352. The opening degree of the adjustment valves 351 and 352 is adjusted and controlled.

  That is, as the current load increases, the amount of gas supplied to the sub stacks 111 and 112 increases. Therefore, as the current values of the ammeters 347 and 348 increase as shown in FIG. The amount of gas flowing through the opening adjustment valve (for example, the opening adjustment valve 351) positioned on the gas discharge port side of the sub stack (for example, the first sub stack 111) positioned on the upstream side gradually increases. Therefore, (the opening degree adjusting valve 352, for example, the opening degree adjusting valve 352) located on the gas outlet side of the sub stack (for example, the second sub stack 112) located on the downstream side in the gas flow direction has a gas. By adjusting the opening degree of the opening degree adjusting valves 351 and 352, a constant pressure loss value P1 can always be given to the gas. That.

  Therefore, for example, even when the pressure loss with respect to the hydrogen gas 1 imparted by the flow in the substacks 111 and 112 is small, when the hydrogen gas 1 is supplied from the hydrogen gas supply source 130, When the hydrogen gas 1 discharged from the hydrogen gas discharge port of the sub-stacks 111 and 112 located upstream in the flow direction of the hydrogen gas 1 is supplied, it is measured by the inlet side pressure gauges 243 and 244. It is possible to make a clear difference in the pressure value of the hydrogen gas 1.

  Therefore, according to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system 300 according to the present embodiment, it is possible to obtain the same effect as in the case of the second embodiment described above, and there is a problem. The malfunction state of the main valves 101 to 104 (particularly when the main valves 103 and 104 cannot be opened but remain closed) can be detected more reliably.

[Other Embodiments]
In the third embodiment described above, the opening adjustment valves 351 and 352 are circulated based on information from the ammeters 347 and 348 that measure the amount of current flowing through the sub-stacks 111 and 112. In another embodiment, for example, a gas flow meter for measuring a gas flow rate in the gas outlet portion of the sub-stacks 111 and 112 is provided, and the gas flow meter is provided. It is also possible to detect the flow rate of the gas flowing through the opening degree adjusting valves 351 and 352 based on the information from.

  In the third embodiment described above, the opening degree adjusting valves 351 and 352 that can always give a constant pressure loss P1 to the gas are applied as pressure loss applying means. However, as other embodiments, For example, it is also possible to apply a pressure loss applying means such as a reducer that always circulates the gas at a certain amount or less. However, if the opening adjustment valves 351 and 352 are applied as pressure loss applying means as in the third embodiment described above, it is possible to avoid applying pressure loss to the gas unnecessarily and useless energy consumption. This is preferable.

  In the third embodiment described above, when the gas is supplied from the gas supply source by applying pressure loss to the gas by the opening adjustment valves 351, 352, etc., and the gas The difference between the case where the gas discharged from the gas discharge port of the sub stack located on the upstream side in the flow direction is supplied can be clearly detected, but as another embodiment, for example, the stack Gas flow meters for measuring the gas flow rates of the gas inlet portions of 111 and 112 are provided, respectively, for measuring the flow rate of the gas supplied to the stacks 111 and 112 (the gas from the gas supply source). However, the gas from the gas outlets of the stacks 111 and 112 is small.) In the vicinity of the gas inlets of the stacks 111 and 112 Providing a meter or dew point meter to measure the humidity or dew point of the gas supplied to the stacks 111 and 112 (while the gas from the gas supply source is dry, the stack 111, 112 The gas from the gas discharge port is humidified.) And the like, and when the gas is supplied from the gas supply source, and from the gas discharge port of the sub stack located upstream in the flow direction of the gas. It is also possible to clearly detect the difference from the case where the discharged gas is supplied.

  In the first embodiment described above, the malfunction of the main valves 101-104 is determined based on information from the voltmeters 141, 142 provided in the stacks 111, 112, and the second described above. In the third embodiment, based on the information from the pressure gauges 243 to 246 provided in the vicinity of the gas inlet and the gas outlet of the stacks 111 and 112, the main valves 101 to 104 are controlled. Although the malfunction is determined, as another embodiment, for example, a gas flow meter for measuring the gas flow rate in the gas inlet portion and the gas outlet portion of the stacks 111 and 112 is provided, Based on the information from the flow meter, as in the case of the second embodiment described above, the malfunction of the main valves 101 to 104 is determined. It is also possible to so that.

  In the first to third embodiments described above, the timer for measuring the operation time is provided as the fuel gas switching timing confirmation means and the oxidizing gas switching timing confirmation means, and the control devices 140, 240, 340 are provided. The valves 101 to 104, 101a to 104a, and 101b to 104b are controlled based on the information from the timer and with the elapse of a preset operation time. As another embodiment, for example, By doing so, it is possible to obtain the same operational effects as those of the above-described embodiments.

(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 is 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 is 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 the voltage becomes smaller than a preset cell voltage reference value, the position switching means such as the valve is controlled (for example, application of the technique described in JP-A-2002-151125).

(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 is 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 is controlled.

(6) As a fuel gas switching timing confirmation means and an oxidant gas switching timing confirmation means, there is provided an outlet pressure measuring means for measuring the pressure of the gas outlet portion of the sub-stack, and the control means has 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 is controlled.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, a case of a polymer electrolyte fuel cell in which the two sub-stacks 111 and 112 are connected so that the fuel gas flow path and the oxidizing gas flow path are in a series loop shape will be described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and as another embodiment, for example, a solid mass in which three or more sub-stacks are connected so that a fuel gas flow path and an oxidizing gas flow path are formed in a series loop shape. Even in the case of a molecular fuel cell, it can be applied in the same manner as in the above-described embodiments, and the same effects as in the above-described embodiments can be obtained.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, both the fuel gas system and the oxidant gas system include the most upstream position switching means, the most upstream position switching bypass means, the most upstream position switching sub means, the switching timing confirmation means, Although the case where the switching failure detection means and the like are provided has been described, the present invention is not limited to this, and as another embodiment, for example, only one of the fuel gas system and the oxidant gas system has the most upstream position. It is also possible to provide switching means, the most upstream position switching bypass means, the most upstream position switching sub means, the switching timing confirmation means, the switching failure detection means, and the like.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, when the bypass valves 101a to 101b are in a closed state when not in operation and the sub valves 101b to 104b are in an open state when not in operation, power consumption is suppressed. This is preferable because it can suppress a decrease in the overall efficiency of the system.

  In the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to the present invention, even if a malfunction occurs in the most upstream position switching means or the most downstream position switching means, the control means is based on information from the previous switching malfunction detection means. Since the power generation operation can be continued without any problems by controlling the switching sub means and the switching bypass means, it can be used extremely beneficially industrially.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Hydrogen gas 2 Generated water 100 Polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system 101-104 Main valve 101B-104B Bypass line 101a-104a Bypass valve 101b-104b Sub valve 111 1st substack 112 2nd substack 121,122 Drain Trap 130 Hydrogen gas supply source 140 Controller 141, 142 Voltmeter 200 Solid polymer fuel cell power generation system 240 Controller 243 Inlet pressure gauge 244 Outlet pressure gauge 245 Inlet pressure gauge 246 Outlet pressure gauge 300 Solid polymer Fuel cell power generation system 340 Control device 347,348 Ammeter 351,352 Opening adjustment valve

Claims (15)

A solid polymer electrolyte fuel cell in which a plurality of cells each having a solid polymer electrolyte membrane sandwiched between a fuel electrode and an oxidation electrode and separators formed with fuel gas and oxidation gas flow paths are laminated;
Fuel gas supply means for supplying fuel gas to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell;
An oxidizing gas supply means for supplying an oxidizing gas to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell,
In the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, a plurality of sub-stacks in which the cells and the separators are alternately stacked are connected so as to form a series loop shape in the flow path of the fuel gas,
The fuel gas supply means is connected to the fuel gas inlet of each of the sub-stacks of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell;
Gas-liquid separation means for fuel gas respectively disposed in the flow path of the fuel gas between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell;
A fuel gas most upstream position switching means for cutting or connecting between the fuel gas supply means and the fuel gas inlet of each of the sub-stacks of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell;
Fuel gas most downstream position switching means for cutting or connecting the flow path of the fuel gas between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell;
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 information from the fuel gas switching timing confirmation means, the fuel gas uppermost position switching is performed so as to switch the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell located on the most upstream side in the fuel gas flow direction. And control means for controlling the fuel gas most downstream position switching means so as to switch the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell located on the most downstream side in the fuel gas flow direction. In a polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system,
In series with the most upstream position switching means for fuel gas so as to cut or connect between the fuel gas supply means and the fuel gas inlet of each sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell. Provided uppermost position switching sub means for fuel gas,
The fuel gas supply means and the fuel gas inlet of each sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell are disconnected or connected without going through the most upstream position switching means for the fuel gas. The most upstream position switching bypass means for fuel gas provided in parallel to the most upstream position switching means for the fuel gas;
Provided in series with the fuel gas most downstream position switching means so as to cut or connect the flow path of the fuel gas between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, respectively. A most downstream position switching sub means for fuel gas;
The fuel gas so as to cut or connect the flow path of the fuel gas between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell without going through the most downstream position switching means for the fuel gas. Fuel gas most downstream position switching bypass means provided in parallel with the most downstream position switching means,
Voltage value of the cells of the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, pressure values of the fuel gas inlet and outlet portions of the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, the solid polymer type A fuel gas switching failure detection means for measuring at least one of the fuel gas flow rate in the fuel gas inlet and outlet portions of the sub-stack of the fuel cell, and
The control means further includes a gap between the fuel gas supply means and the fuel gas inlet of each of the sub-stacks of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell based on information from the fuel gas switching failure detection means. The fuel gas most upstream position switching sub means and the fuel gas most downstream position switching bypass means are respectively controlled so as to be disconnected or connected, and between the sub stacks to which the polymer electrolyte fuel cell is connected. The fuel gas most downstream position switching sub-means and the fuel gas most downstream position switching bypass means are respectively controlled so as to cut or connect the flow paths of the fuel gas respectively. Polymer fuel cell power generation system. A solid polymer electrolyte fuel cell in which a plurality of cells each having a solid polymer electrolyte membrane sandwiched between a fuel electrode and an oxidation electrode and separators formed with fuel gas and oxidation gas flow paths are laminated;
Fuel gas supply means for supplying fuel gas to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell;
An oxidizing gas supply means for supplying an oxidizing gas to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell,
The polymer electrolyte fuel cell is formed by connecting a plurality of sub-stacks in which the cells and the separators are alternately stacked, so that the flow path of the oxidizing gas is in a series loop shape,
The oxidizing gas supply means is connected to the oxidizing gas inlet of each of the sub-stacks of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell;
Gas-liquid separation means for oxidizing gas respectively disposed in the flow path of the oxidizing gas between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell;
The most upstream position switching means for oxidizing gas for cutting or connecting between the oxidizing gas supply means and the oxidizing gas inlet of each sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell;
An oxidizing gas most downstream position switching means for cutting or connecting the flow path of the oxidizing gas between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell;
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 Oxidization gas switching time confirmation means for measuring at least one of the pressure values of the outlet portion of the
Based on the information from the oxidant gas switching timing confirmation means, the oxidant gas uppermost position switching is performed so as to switch the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell located on the most upstream side in the oxidant gas flow direction. Control means for controlling the oxidizing gas most downstream position switching means so as to switch the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell located on the most downstream side in the flowing direction of the oxidizing gas. In a polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system,
In series with the most upstream position switching means for oxidizing gas so as to cut or connect between the oxidizing gas supply means and the oxidizing gas inlet of each sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell. Provided, the most upstream position switching sub means for oxidizing gas;
The oxidant gas supply means and the oxidant gas inlet of each of the sub-stacks of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell are disconnected or connected without going through the oxidant gas most upstream position switching means. The most upstream position switching bypass means for oxidizing gas provided in parallel with the most upstream position switching means for oxidizing gas;
Provided in series with the oxidizing gas most downstream position switching means so as to cut or connect the flow path of the oxidizing gas between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, respectively. A most downstream position switching sub means for oxidizing gas;
The oxidizing gas so as to cut or connect the flow path of the oxidizing gas between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell without passing through the downstream-most position switching means for the oxidizing gas. An oxidizing gas most downstream position switching bypass means provided in parallel with the most downstream position switching means;
The voltage value of the cells of the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, the pressure values of the oxidizing gas inlet and outlet portions of the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, the solid polymer type An oxidizing gas switching failure detecting means for measuring at least one of the oxidizing gas flow rate of the oxidizing gas inlet and outlet portions of the sub-stack of the fuel cell; and
The control means further includes a gap between the oxidizing gas supply means and the oxidizing gas inlet of each of the sub-stacks of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell based on information from the oxidizing gas switching failure detecting means. The oxidizing gas upstreammost position switching sub means and the oxidizing gas downstream position switching bypass means are respectively controlled so as to be disconnected or connected, and between the sub stacks to which the polymer electrolyte fuel cell is connected. The oxidizing gas most downstream position switching sub means and the oxidizing gas most downstream position switching bypass means are respectively controlled so as to cut or connect the flow paths of the oxidizing gas respectively. Polymer fuel cell power generation system. In the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to claim 1,
The polymer electrolyte fuel cell further includes a plurality of the sub-stacks connected so as to form a circulation path of the oxidizing gas in a series loop shape,
The oxidizing gas supply means is connected to the oxidizing gas inlet of each of the sub-stacks of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell;
Gas-liquid separation means for oxidizing gas respectively disposed in the flow path of the oxidizing gas between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell;
The most upstream position switching means for oxidizing gas for cutting or connecting between the oxidizing gas supply means and the oxidizing gas inlet of each sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell;
An oxidizing gas most downstream position switching means for cutting or connecting the flow path of the oxidizing gas between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell;
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 Oxidization gas switching time confirmation means for measuring at least one of the pressure values of the outlet portion of the
In series with the most upstream position switching means for oxidizing gas so as to cut or connect between the oxidizing gas supply means and the oxidizing gas inlet of each sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell. Provided, the most upstream position switching sub means for oxidizing gas;
The oxidant gas supply means and the oxidant gas inlet of each of the sub-stacks of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell are disconnected or connected without going through the oxidant gas most upstream position switching means. The most upstream position switching bypass means for oxidizing gas provided in parallel with the most upstream position switching means for oxidizing gas;
Provided in series with the oxidizing gas most downstream position switching means so as to cut or connect the flow path of the oxidizing gas between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, respectively. A most downstream position switching sub means for oxidizing gas;
The oxidizing gas so as to cut or connect the flow path of the oxidizing gas between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell without passing through the downstream-most position switching means for the oxidizing gas. An oxidizing gas most downstream position switching bypass means provided in parallel with the most downstream position switching means;
The voltage value of the cells of the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, the pressure values of the oxidizing gas inlet and outlet portions of the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell, the solid polymer type An oxidizing gas switching failure detecting means for measuring at least one of the oxidizing gas flow rate of the oxidizing gas inlet and outlet portions of the sub-stack of the fuel cell; and
The control means switches the oxidant gas so as to switch the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell located on the most upstream side in the flow direction of the oxidant gas based on information from the oxidant gas switching time confirmation part And controlling the most downstream position switching means for oxidizing gas so as to switch the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell located on the most downstream side in the flow direction of the oxidizing gas. Further, based on information from the oxidizing gas switching failure detecting means, the oxidizing gas supply means and the oxidizing gas inlet of each sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell are disconnected or connected, respectively. Controlling the most upstream position switching sub means for oxidizing gas and the most downstream position switching bypass means for oxidizing gas, respectively, and the solid polymer The oxidizing gas most downstream position switching sub-means and the oxidizing gas most downstream position switching bypass means so as to cut or connect the flow path of the oxidizing gas between the sub-stacks connected to the fuel cell, respectively. A polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system characterized by being controlled. In the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to claim 1 or 3,
A fuel gas pressure loss applying means for applying a pressure loss to the fuel gas flowing through the flow path of the fuel gas between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell; Solid polymer fuel cell power generation system. In the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to claim 4,
A fuel gas pressure loss application amount detecting means for detecting a flow rate of the fuel gas flowing through the flow path of the fuel gas between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell;
The fuel gas pressure loss applying means is an opening adjustment valve,
The control means controls the opening adjustment valve so as to give a constant pressure loss to the fuel gas based on information from the fuel gas pressure loss application amount detection means. Solid polymer fuel cell power generation system. In the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to claim 5,
The fuel gas pressure drop application amount detection means is configured to detect the amount of current flowing through the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell or the fuel gas discharge port portion of the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell. A solid polymer fuel cell power generation system characterized by measuring the flow rate of the fuel gas. In the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to claim 2 or 3,
Characterized in that it comprises pressure loss applying means for oxidizing gas that applies pressure loss to the oxidizing gas flowing through the flow path of the oxidizing gas between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell. Solid polymer fuel cell power generation system. In the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to claim 7,
An oxidizing gas pressure loss application amount detecting means for detecting a flow rate of the oxidizing gas flowing through the flow path of the oxidizing gas between the sub-stacks connected to the polymer electrolyte fuel cell;
The pressure loss applying means for oxidizing gas is an opening adjustment valve,
The control means controls the opening adjustment valve so as to give a constant pressure loss to the oxidizing gas based on information from the oxidizing gas pressure loss applying amount detecting means. Solid polymer fuel cell power generation system. The polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to claim 8,
The oxidant gas pressure drop application amount detecting means is configured to detect the amount of current flowing through the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell or the oxidant gas outlet portion of the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell. A solid polymer fuel cell power generation system, characterized in that it measures the flow rate of the oxidizing gas. In the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to claim 1 or 3,
The most upstream position for the fuel gas so that the control means positions the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell located on the most downstream side in the flow direction of the fuel gas on the most upstream side in the flow direction of the fuel gas. A solid polymer fuel cell power generation system characterized by controlling switching means and the most downstream position switching means for fuel gas. In the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to claim 2 or 3,
The most upstream position for the oxidizing gas so that the control means positions the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell located on the most downstream side in the flowing direction of the oxidizing gas on the most upstream side in the flowing direction of the oxidizing gas. A solid polymer fuel cell power generation system characterized by controlling switching means and the most downstream position switching means for oxidizing gas. In the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to claim 1 or 3,
The most upstream position for the fuel gas so that the control means positions the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell located on the most upstream side in the fuel gas flow direction on the most downstream side in the fuel gas flow direction A solid polymer fuel cell power generation system characterized by controlling switching means and the most downstream position switching means for fuel gas. In the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to claim 2 or 3,
The most upstream position for the oxidizing gas so that the control means positions the sub-stack of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell located on the most upstream side in the flowing direction of the oxidizing gas on the most downstream side in the flowing direction of the oxidizing gas. A solid polymer fuel cell power generation system characterized by controlling switching means and the most downstream position switching means for oxidizing gas. The polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to any one of claims 1, 3, 4 to 6, 10, and 12,
The fuel gas supply means supplies hydrogen gas having a concentration of 99% or more. A solid polymer fuel cell power generation system, wherein: In the polymer electrolyte fuel cell power generation system according to any one of claims 2, 3, 7 to 9, 11, and 13,
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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