JP4440510B2 - Fuel cell device - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  The present invention relates to an improvement of a fuel cell device, and relates to a fuel gas device.SuThe present invention relates to a fuel cell device having a chamber in which water generated from moisture contained in fugus can stay.
[0002]
[Prior art]
  In recent years, fuel cell devices have attracted attention from the viewpoint of environmental protection and the like. The fuel cell device includes a fuel cell that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxygen-containing gas (generally air), a fuel supply passage that supplies the fuel gas to the fuel cell, and an oxygen-containing gas that is supplied to the fuel cell. And an oxidant supply passage. The generated water may stay during operation of such a fuel cell device. In particular, if the electrolyte membrane of the fuel cell is excessively dried, sufficient power generation performance cannot be obtained, and therefore the inside of the fuel cell is often humidified. For this reason, product water often stays in each path of the fuel cell device. Japanese Patent Publication No. 2656262 discloses a fuel cell power generation system in which a fuel cell is disposed at the top, and a pipe is provided with a gradient so that water generated in the pipe is collected in a condensing unit and the passage of the generated water is prevented from being blocked. Equipment is disclosed.
[0003]
  Further, another technique for discharging the generated water staying in the condensing unit will be described below. Off-gas of the fuel gas after power generation is discharged from the fuel electrode of the fuel cell. The off-gas of the fuel gas contains unreacted components that have not been consumed for power generation and has moisture. In order to remove moisture from the off-gas of the fuel gas, the off-gas of the fuel gas passes through a condensing unit having a cooling function. Since the fuel gas off-gas is cooled in the condensing part, the moisture contained in the fuel gas off-gas is generated as condensed water, and the water stays in the condensing part chamber. Since the amount of water remaining in the condensing unit chamber gradually increases with the operation of the fuel cell, it must be discharged from the discharge port of the condensing unit chamber. However, since the off-gas of the fuel gas contains unreacted components that have not been consumed as a power generation reaction, it is not preferable to leak together with water from the discharge port. Therefore, a certain amount of water is retained in the condensing unit chamber, and the discharge port is covered and sealed with the water remaining in the condensing unit chamber.
[0004]
  In the conventional technology in which the discharge port is covered and sealed in this way, an electric high level sensor for detecting the high level position of the water level accumulated in the condensing unit chamber and a low level of the accumulated water level are detected. An electric low level sensor that detects the level position and a solenoid valve that opens based on a signal from the high level sensor and the low level sensor are provided. When the water level in the condensing section increases and exceeds the set value, the electric high-level sensor detects this, and the controller opens the solenoid valve and stays in the condensing section chamber. The discharged water was discharged from the discharge port to the outside of the condensing part. Thereby, it is possible to prevent excessive water from staying in the condensing part, and to secure a necessary volume of the condensing part. When the water level in the condensing section drops, the electric low level sensor detects this, and the control device closes the solenoid valve, thereby preventing the discharge of water, and a certain amount of water. Is retained in the condensing chamber. Thereby, the water seal structure which seals the discharge port of the chamber of a condensation part with water is employable. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the off-gas of the fuel gas supplied into the condensing part from leaking from the discharge port by the water seal.
[0005]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
  However, according to the above-described technique, the electric high level sensor and low level sensor for detecting the height of the water staying in the condensing unit chamber, and further, the sensor is opened based on detection signals from these sensors. A solenoid valve is required. Therefore, it is disadvantageous to reduce power consumption and size. Particularly, since the solenoid valve is equipped with an excitation solenoid, it is disadvantageous in reducing the size, and it is necessary to excite the excitation solenoid, which is also disadvantageous in terms of reducing power consumption.
[0006]
  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and fuel gasSuFugusCondenserIt is an object of the present invention to provide a fuel cell device that is advantageous in reducing power consumption and size while sealing.
[0007]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  BookA fuel cell device according to the invention includes a fuel cell having a fuel electrode and an oxidant electrode;
  Fuel gasSuThe chamber through which fugus passes and the fuel gas in the chamberSuMoisture contained in fugasBy condensingIt has a chamber bottom where generated water can stay and a discharge port formed on the chamber bottomIn addition, the condensing unit seals the discharge port because the water necessary for sealing stays at the bottom of the chamberWhen,
  Condensing partTo the drainage part provided below the discharge port on the bottom of the roomCondensing partAnd a discharge passage that extends downward from the discharge port and discharges water accumulated on the bottom surface of the chamber from the discharge port to the drainage part,
  Of the condensation sectionThe bottom of the chamber is inclined downward toward the discharge port so that water flows down toward the discharge port.
  In the discharge path,
  It is closed during normal times, and the discharge of water from the discharge channel to the drainage part is prevented with the closure.To the waterWater pressure response type discharge that opens in response to pressure and discharges water to the drainage part through the discharge path as it opens.ValveProvided,
  The discharge valve includes a valve port communicating with the discharge passage, a valve portion that can open and close the valve port, and an elastic portion that biases the valve portion against the water pressure of the discharge passage in a direction in which the valve portion closes the valve port, HaveThe gas pressure in the condensing part chamber is P1, the water pressure based on the height h1 of the water staying on the bottom surface of the condenser is P2, and the water pressure based on the water height h2 from the discharge port to the valve part is P3. When the total pressure of P1 + P2 + P3 is pressure PA,
The pressure PA acts as a valve opening force for opening the valve portion of the discharge valve. In a normal state, the biasing force of the elastic portion of the discharge valve is set so as to overcome the pressure PA. Normally closes the valve port,
When the pressure PA overcomes the biasing force of the elastic part of the discharge valve, the valve part of the discharge valve opens the valve portIt is characterized by this.
[0008]
  Fuel gasSuFugasCondensing partPass through the roomWhen condensed to produce water. The water pressure responsive discharge valve is normally closed. When the discharge valve is closed,Condensing partThe fuel gas supplied to the chamber or off gasCondensing partLeakage from the discharge port on the bottom of the chamber to the drain is suppressed.
[0009]
  With the operation of the fuel cell,Condensing partWhen the amount of staying water in the chamber gradually increases and exceeds the set value, the discharge valve automatically opens in response to the water pressure of the staying water. When the discharge valve is thus opened, water is automatically discharged to the drainage portion through the discharge path. ThisCondensing partIt is possible to prevent excessive water from staying in the chamber,Condensing partThe volume of the chamber is secured.
[0010]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
  According to the present inventionCondensing partThe fuel gasOfThe chamber through which the offgas passes and the fuel gasOfIt has a chamber bottom where water generated based on moisture contained in the off gas stays, and a discharge port formed on the chamber bottom.
[0011]
  Main departureClearlyAccording toCondensing partThe condensing unit reduces the moisture contained in the off-gas of the fuel gas by condensing the moisture contained in the off-gas of the fuel gas.The
[0012]
  According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the drainage unit can be a water container provided in a lower direction than the bottom surface of the room, but may be in the air depending on the case. Although a water tank can be used as the water container, in this case, it is advantageous to collect water and reuse it.
[0013]
  Main departureClearlyAccording to the present invention, the water pressure responsive discharge valve has a valve part capable of opening and closing a valve port communicating with the discharge path, and an elastic part that urges the valve part in a direction to close the valve port. The valve portion operates based on the water pressure received by the valve, and the valve port is opened. An example of the elastic portion is a spring member. As the spring member, at least one of a metal spring, a resin spring, and a ceramic spring can be employed. As the spring member, a known spring such as a coil spring or a leaf spring can be employed.
[0014]
  In addition, the elastic part can be formed mainly of a polymer organic material such as rubber or resin.The
[0015]
  BookIn the fuel cell device according to the invention, the fuel supplied to the fuel cell includes a reformed gas obtained by reforming the fuel so as to be suitable for use in the fuel cell and an unreformed fuel. Therefore, the fuel cell device according to the present invention may be of a type having a reforming section that reforms fuel into a reformed gas that is a preferred hydrogen-containing gas for use in a fuel cell, or has a reforming section. Alternatively, a type in which hydrogen is formed by directly oxidizing a fuel such as methanol at the fuel electrode may be used.
[0016]
  A fuel cell generates power based on fuel and oxidant gas, and can be exemplified by a method in which battery cells are stacked. Typical fuels include hydrocarbon-based fuel gases, and gases containing at least one of methane, propane, butane, etc. as main components can be used, and examples include natural gas, methanol, gasoline, and biogas. can do. As the fuel, a hydrogen-containing gas that is a reformed gas obtained by reforming the fuel can be used. An oxygen-containing gas such as air can be used as the oxidant gas. The fuel cell may be of any type for business use, home use, stationary use, in-vehicle use, fixed type, movable type and portable type.
[0017]
【Example】
  (First embodiment)
  A first embodiment embodying the present invention is shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 1, the fuel cell device is provided below the fuel cell 8 that generates power based on air as fuel and oxidant gas, the condensing unit 10 as a gas passage member, and the condensing unit 10. It has a water tank 6 that functions as a drainage unit, and a discharge path 140 that connects the condensing unit 10 and the water tank 6 extending downward from the condensing unit 10. The fuel cell 8 includes a fuel electrode supplied with a hydrogen-containing gas as a fuel, an air electrode as an oxidant electrode supplied with air as an oxygen-containing gas as an oxidant gas, and a fuel cell 8 inside the fuel cell 8. And a cooling passage 22 for cooling from the inside.
[0018]
  As shown in FIG. 1, the condensing unit 10 has a box shape and has a cooling function. The condensing unit 10 forms a chamber 10r through which an off-gas of a hydrogen-containing gas containing moisture passes, a bottom of the chamber 10r, and water. Has a chamber bottom surface 100 where the water stays and a discharge port 120 formed in the lower part of the chamber bottom surface 100. Since a part 31e of the heat exchange passage 31 through which a cooling medium such as cooling water flows is arranged in the chamber 10r of the condensing unit 10, the inside of the chamber 10r of the condensing unit 10 is cooled. The bottom surface 100 formed at the bottom of the condensing unit 10 is inclined downward toward the discharge port 120 so that water can flow down. The discharge path 140 extends downward from the discharge port 120 on the bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10, and discharges water accumulated on the bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10 from the discharge port 120 to the water tank 6. It is. The water tank 6 has an air communication port 6m communicating with the atmosphere.
[0019]
  The hydrogen-containing gas is supplied to the fuel electrode of the fuel cell 8 through the hydrogen supply passage 9 and the valve 9a. Air (oxidant gas) that is an oxygen-containing gas is supplied to the air electrode of the fuel cell 8 through the air supply passage 16. Electric power is generated by the fuel cell 8 using the hydrogen-containing gas supplied to the fuel electrode of the fuel cell 8 and the air supplied to the air electrode of the fuel cell 8. The off-gas after the power generation of the hydrogen-containing gas discharged from the outlet 85e of the manifold 85 of the fuel electrode of the fuel cell 8 is supplied to the chamber 10r of the condensing unit 10 through the fuel off-gas passage 12 and the valve 10a. Since the off-gas of the hydrogen-containing gas supplied to the chamber 10r of the condensing unit 10 is cooled in the heat exchange passage 31, the moisture contained in the off gas is condensed and generated as condensed water. Stay at 100. That is, the off gas is dried after the moisture is removed by the condensing unit 10. The off gas that has passed through the condensing unit 10 is supplied to a predetermined place through the fuel off gas passage 12 and the valve 10c.
[0020]
  Now, according to the present embodiment, the discharge port 120 formed on the bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10 is provided with a check valve 200 that functions as a water pressure responsive discharge valve that opens and closes in response to water pressure. Yes. The check valve 200 includes a valve port 201 communicating with the discharge path 140, a valve portion 202 that can open and close the valve port 201, and a spring portion 203 as an elastic portion that biases the valve portion 202 in the closing direction. It has. The gas pressure in the chamber 10r of the condensing unit 10 is P1, the water pressure based on the height h1 of water staying in the chamber bottom surface 100 is P2, and the water pressure based on the water height h2 from the discharge port 120 to the valve unit 202. Is P3, and the total pressure of P1 + P2 + P3 is pressure PA. The pressure PA acts as a valve opening force for opening the valve portion 202 of the check valve 200. In a normal state, since the spring force F of the spring portion 203 of the check valve 200 is set to overcome the pressure PA, the check valve 200 is normally closed and the valve portion 202 opens the valve port 201. It is closed. When the check valve 200 is closed in this way, water staying on the bottom surface 100 of the chamber 10r of the condensing unit 10 is prevented from being discharged from the discharge port 120 to the discharge path 140. For this reason, the amount of water necessary for sealing is retained on the bottom surface 100 of the chamber 10r of the condensing unit 10. As described above, if water stays on the bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10, the discharge port 120 is covered and sealed with the remaining water, so the off-gas of the hydrogen-containing gas in the chamber 10 r of the condensing unit 10 is The leakage from the discharge port 120 on the bottom surface 100 to the discharge path 140 and the water tank 6 is suppressed.
[0021]
  If the operation of the fuel cell 8 is continued, the hydrogen-containing gas off-gas is successively supplied from the fuel electrode of the fuel cell 8 to the chamber 10r of the condensing unit 10, so that the amount of water condensed in the chamber 10r of the condensing unit 10 is reduced. Increasing gradually. Therefore, the amount of staying water on the bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10 gradually increases. When the amount of staying water in the chamber bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10 exceeds the set value, the pressure PA described above gradually increases and overcomes the spring force of the spring unit 203 of the check valve 200, and the valve unit 202 of the check valve 200. Is automatically opened, and the valve port 201 of the check valve 200 is opened. That is, since the check valve 200 is a pressure response type, the valve portion 202 of the check valve 200 is automatically opened in response to the water pressure based on the amount of water remaining in the bottom surface 100 of the chamber 10r of the condensing unit 10. The water on the bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10 is automatically collected in the water tank 6 through the discharge port 120 and the discharge path 140 by gravity. This prevents excessive water from staying on the bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10, secures the volume of the chamber 10 r above the bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10, and supplies off-gas supplied to the chamber 10 r of the condensing unit 10. Can be dried by condensation.
[0022]
  When the amount of staying water in the chamber bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10 becomes less than the set value, h1 decreases, so that the spring force of the spring part 203 of the check valve 200 overcomes the pressure PA described above. For this reason, the valve portion 202 of the check valve 200 is automatically closed by the spring force of the spring portion 203, and the valve port 201 is closed. That is, the valve portion 202 of the check valve 200 is automatically closed in response to the amount of water remaining on the bottom surface 100 of the chamber 10r of the condensing unit 10. For this reason, an amount of water required for the water seal remains on the bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10. Accordingly, since the discharge port 120 is covered and sealed with the remaining water, the off-gas of the hydrogen-containing gas in the chamber 10r of the condensing unit 10 flows from the discharge port 120 on the chamber bottom surface 100 to the discharge path 140 and the water tank 6. Leakage is suppressed.
[0023]
  As described above, according to the fuel cell device of the present embodiment, unlike the prior art, an electric high level sensor that detects the high level of the water level in the condensing unit 10, and the low water level in the condensing unit 10. An electric low level sensor for detecting the level, and an electromagnetic valve that opens based on detection signals from these sensors can be eliminated. Therefore, it is advantageous in reducing power consumption and reducing the size. In particular, the solenoid valve is equipped with an excitation solenoid, which is disadvantageous in reducing power consumption and reducing the size. However, according to the fuel cell device of the present invention, the solenoid valve having the excitation solenoid can be eliminated. This is advantageous both in terms of power consumption reduction and size reduction.
[0024]
  (Second embodiment)
  A second embodiment embodying the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. The second embodiment has a reforming system for reforming fuel gas. The second embodiment has basically the same configuration as the first embodiment, and basically has the same function and effect. In the following, different parts will be mainly described. As shown in FIG. 2, the fuel cell device includes a fuel cell 8 that generates electricity based on a hydrogen-containing gas and air, a condensing unit 10 as a gas passage member, and a drainage unit provided below the condensing unit 10. And a discharge passage 140 that extends downward from the condenser 10 and connects the condenser 10 and the water tank 6. The condensing unit 10 has a box shape and has a cooling function, and a chamber 10r through which off-gas of a hydrogen-containing gas containing moisture passes, and a chamber bottom 100 that forms the bottom of the chamber 10r and retains water. And a discharge port 120 formed on the bottom surface 100 of the chamber. Since a part 31e of the heat exchange passage 31 through which a cooling medium such as cooling water flows is disposed in the chamber 10r of the condensing unit 10, the inside of the chamber 10r of the condensing unit 10 is cooled. The chamber bottom surface 100 formed on the bottom surface of the condensing unit 10 is inclined downward toward the discharge port 120 so that water can flow down. The discharge path 140 extends downward from the discharge port 120 on the bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10, and discharges water accumulated on the bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10 from the discharge port 120 to the water tank 6. It is.
[0025]
  In this embodiment, a reforming system 1M that performs a reforming reaction of fuel gas is provided. The reforming system 1M includes a combustion unit 13 that is supplied with combustion fuel gas and burns, and a reforming unit 1 that is provided in the vicinity of the combustion unit 13 and is heated by the combustion unit 13 to a temperature range suitable for the reforming reaction. And a CO removing unit 5 for removing CO and an evaporation unit 2 for generating water vapor used for the reforming reaction from water. The manifold 85 of the fuel electrode of the fuel cell 8 and the condensing part 10 are connected by a fuel off-gas passage 12 via a valve 10a. The fuel off-gas passage 12 is a passage for supplying off-gas after power generation of the fuel electrode of the fuel cell 8 to the condensing unit 10. The fuel off-gas passage 12 connects the condensing unit 10 and the combustion unit 13 of the reforming system 1M through a valve 10c. The water inlet 6x of the water tank 6 is connected to the evaporation section 2 of the reforming system 1M through the raw water supply passage 7, the water transfer pump 7f, and the open / close control valve 7h.
[0026]
  When a reforming fuel gas such as city gas is supplied to the reforming unit 1, the fuel gas reacts with the water vapor from the evaporation unit 2, a reforming reaction occurs in the reforming unit 1, and a hydrogen-containing gas is generated. Generated. The generated hydrogen-containing gas is supplied to the fuel electrode of the fuel cell 8 through the hydrogen supply passage 9 and the valve 9a. Air (oxidant gas) that is an oxygen-containing gas is supplied to the air electrode of the fuel cell 8 through the air supply passage 16. Electric power is generated in the fuel cell 8 using the hydrogen-containing gas supplied to the fuel electrode of the fuel cell 8 and the air supplied from the air supply passage 16 to the air electrode of the fuel cell 8. The off-gas after power generation of the hydrogen-containing gas discharged from the outlet 85e of the manifold 85 of the fuel electrode of the fuel cell 8 is supplied into the condensing unit 10 through the fuel off-gas passage 12 and the valve 10a. Since the off-gas of the hydrogen-containing gas supplied into the condensing unit 10 is cooled in the heat exchange passage 31, the moisture contained in the off-gas is condensed into water and stays on the bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10. That is, the off gas is dried after the moisture is removed by the condensing unit 10. The off-gas of the hydrogen-containing gas whose moisture has been reduced in the condensing unit 10 is supplied to the combustion unit 13 through the fuel off-gas passage 12 and the valve 10c, and is consumed as a combustion reaction in the combustion unit 13. As described above, since the moisture of the off-gas of the hydrogen-containing gas is removed by the condensing unit 10, even if this off-gas is supplied to the combustion unit 13, the temperature of the combustion unit 13 can be maintained well, and the combustion reaction in the combustion unit 13. Can be maintained well.
[0027]
  Also in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, a check valve 200 that opens and closes in response to water pressure is provided in the discharge port 120 formed on the bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10. The check valve 200 has a valve portion 202 that can open and close the valve port 201 communicating with the discharge passage 140, and a spring portion 203 as an elastic portion that biases the valve portion 202 in the closing direction. In a normal state, since the spring force F of the spring portion 203 of the check valve 200 is set so as to overcome the above-described pressure PA, the check valve 200 is normally closed and the valve portion 202 is a valve port. 201 is closed. When the check valve 200 is closed in this way, water staying on the bottom surface 100 of the chamber 10r of the condensing unit 10 is prevented from being discharged from the discharge port 120 to the discharge path 140. For this reason, the amount of water necessary for sealing is retained on the bottom surface 100 of the chamber 10r of the condensing unit 10. As described above, if water stays on the bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10, the discharge port 120 is covered and sealed with the remaining water, so the off-gas of the hydrogen-containing gas in the chamber 10 r of the condensing unit 10 is The leakage from the discharge port 120 on the bottom surface 100 to the discharge path 140 and the water tank 6 is suppressed.
[0028]
  When the operation of the fuel cell 8 is continued, off-gas of hydrogen-containing gas is successively supplied from the fuel electrode of the fuel cell 8 to the chamber 10r of the condensing unit 10, so that the accumulated water in the bottom surface 100 of the chamber 10r of the condensing unit 10 The amount of water gradually increases. When the amount of staying water in the chamber bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10 exceeds the set value, the pressure PA described above gradually increases and overcomes the spring force of the spring unit 203 of the check valve 200, and the valve unit 202 of the check valve 200. Is automatically opened, and the valve port 201 of the check valve 200 is opened. That is, the valve portion 202 of the check valve 200 is automatically opened in response to the water pressure based on the amount of water remaining on the bottom surface 100 of the chamber 10r of the condensing unit 10, and the water on the bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10 is The water is recovered in the water tank 6 through the discharge port 120 and the discharge path 140. This prevents excessive water from staying on the bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10, secures the volume of the chamber 10 r above the bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10, and supplies off-gas supplied to the chamber 10 r of the condensing unit 10. Can be dried by condensation.
[0029]
  When the amount of staying water in the chamber bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10 becomes less than the set value, the pressure PA described above becomes small, so the spring force of the spring part 203 of the check valve 200 overcomes the pressure PA. For this reason, the valve portion 202 of the check valve 200 is automatically closed by the spring force of the spring portion 203, and the valve port 201 is closed. That is, the valve portion 202 of the check valve 200 is automatically closed in response to the amount of water remaining on the bottom surface 100 of the chamber 10r of the condensing unit 10. Therefore, a necessary amount of water remains on the bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10, and the discharge port 120 is covered and sealed with the remaining water, so that the hydrogen-containing gas in the chamber 10 r of the condensing unit 10 is sealed. The off gas is suppressed from leaking from the discharge port 120 on the bottom surface 100 to the discharge path 140 and the water tank 6.
[0030]
  As described above, in the fuel cell device according to the present embodiment as well, unlike the first embodiment, unlike the prior art, an electric high level sensor, a low level sensor, and detection from these sensors. The solenoid valve that opens based on the signal can be eliminated. Therefore, it is advantageous in reducing power consumption and reducing the size. In particular, the solenoid valve is equipped with an excitation solenoid, which is disadvantageous in reducing power consumption and reducing the size. However, according to the fuel cell device of the present invention, the solenoid valve having the excitation solenoid can be eliminated. This is advantageous both in terms of power consumption reduction and size reduction.
[0031]
  (Third embodiment)
  FIG. 3 shows a third embodiment embodying the present invention. The third embodiment has basically the same configuration as the second embodiment, and basically has the same functions and effects. In the following, different parts will be mainly described. According to the present embodiment, the check valve 200 is provided in the discharge passage 140 that extends downward from the discharge port 120 on the bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10. Further, in the fuel cell 8, a second discharge port 120B is formed on the bottom surface 100B of the second chamber, which is the bottom of the manifold 85 of the fuel cell 8 through which the off-gas after the generation of the hydrogen-containing gas passes, and the second discharge port 120B is formed. A second discharge passage 140B extends downward from the port 120B toward the water tank 6. The second discharge passage 140B is provided with a pressure-responsive second check valve 200B that opens and closes in response to water pressure. The second check valve 200B has the same configuration as the above-described check valve 200, and the second valve portion 202B capable of opening and closing the second valve port 201B communicating with the second discharge passage 140B, and the second It has the 2nd spring part 203B as an elastic part which urges | biases the valve part 202B to a closing direction. In the second valve portion 202B, the pressure in the chamber 85r of the manifold 85 of the fuel cell 8, the water pressure based on the height of the water remaining in the second chamber bottom surface 100B of the manifold 85, the pressure in the second chamber bottom surface 100B of the manifold 85, A total water pressure based on the height of water from the second discharge port 120B to the second valve portion 202B of the second check valve 200B is defined as a pressure PB. This pressure PB acts as a valve opening force on the second valve portion 202B of the second check valve 200B. In a normal state, since the spring force F2 of the second spring portion 203B of the second check valve 200B is set so as to overcome the pressure PB, the second check valve 200B is normally closed, The second valve portion 202B of the second check valve 200B closes the second valve port 201B. As described above, when the second check valve 200B is closed, the water staying in the second chamber bottom surface 100B of the chamber 85r of the manifold 85 of the fuel cell 8 flows into the second discharge port of the manifold 85 of the fuel cell 8. It is not discharged from 120B to the water tank 6 through the second discharge path 140B. For this reason, a required amount of water remains on the second chamber bottom surface 100B of the chamber 85r of the manifold 85 of the fuel cell 8. If the second discharge port 120B of the manifold 85 is covered and sealed with the remaining water if it stays on the second chamber bottom surface 100B of the manifold 85 of the fuel cell 8 in this way, the chamber 85r of the manifold 85 is sealed. The off-gas of the hydrogen-containing gas is prevented from leaking from the second discharge port 120B of the second chamber bottom surface 100B of the manifold 85 to the second discharge path 140B and the water tank 6 side.
[0032]
  When the amount of retained water in the second chamber bottom surface 100B of the chamber 85r of the manifold 85 gradually increases and the amount of retained water in the second chamber bottom surface 100B of the manifold 85 exceeds the set value, the pressure PB gradually increases, and the second check valve The spring force of the spring portion 203 of 200B is overcome. At this time, the second valve portion 202B of the second check valve 200B is automatically opened, and the second valve port 201B of the second check valve 200B is opened. Then, the water in the second chamber bottom surface 100B of the chamber 85r of the manifold 85 is automatically collected in the water tank 6 through the second discharge port 120B and the second discharge path 140B. As a result, it is possible to prevent excess water from remaining on the second chamber bottom surface 100B of the manifold 85.
[0033]
  When the amount of accumulated water in the second chamber bottom surface 100B of the manifold 85 becomes less than the set value, the spring force of the second spring portion 203B of the second check valve 200B overcomes the pressure PB, and the second valve portion of the second check valve 200B. 202B is automatically closed by the spring force of the second spring portion 203B, and the second valve port 201B is closed. That is, the second valve portion 202B of the second check valve 200B is automatically closed in response to the water pressure of the amount of water remaining in the second chamber bottom surface 100B of the chamber 85r of the manifold 85. Therefore, since a necessary amount of water remains on the second chamber bottom surface 100B of the manifold 85, the second discharge port 120B is covered and sealed with the remaining water, and the off-gas of the hydrogen-containing gas in the chamber 85r of the manifold 85 is sealed. Is prevented from leaking from the second discharge port 120B of the second chamber bottom surface 100B to the discharge path 140B and the water tank 6 side.
[0034]
  As described above, in the fuel cell device according to the present embodiment as well, unlike the first embodiment, unlike the prior art, an electric high level sensor, a low level sensor, and detection from these sensors. The solenoid valve that opens based on the signal can be eliminated. Therefore, it is advantageous in reducing power consumption and reducing the size. In particular, the solenoid valve is equipped with an excitation solenoid, which is disadvantageous in reducing power consumption and reducing the size. However, according to the fuel cell device of the present invention, the solenoid valve having the excitation solenoid can be eliminated. This is advantageous both in terms of power consumption reduction and size reduction.
[0035]
  Further, according to the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, a water flow resistance portion 160 is formed in the discharge path 140 by bending the discharge path 140. The water flow resistance portion 160 is provided below the check valve 200 in the discharge passage 140. According to the present embodiment, even when the closing operation of the valve portion 202 of the check valve 200 is delayed due to circumstances, or even when the pressure in the chamber 10r of the condensing unit 10 is instantaneously excessive. Since the water flow resistance portion 160 is formed in the discharge passage 140, it is possible to suppress the excessive discharge of the sealing water remaining on the bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10 from the discharge port 120. . Therefore, it is advantageous for the amount of water required for sealing to stay on the chamber bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10.
[0036]
  Further, as shown in FIG. 3, a second water flow resistance portion is formed by bending the second discharge path 140B also in the second discharge path 140B extending from the second chamber bottom surface 100B of the manifold 85 of the fuel cell. 160B is formed. The second water flow resistance portion 160B is provided below the second check valve 200B in the second discharge path 140B. According to the present embodiment, even when the closing operation of the second valve portion 202B of the second check valve 200B is delayed due to circumstances, or when the pressure in the manifold 85 becomes momentarily excessive. In addition, since the second water flow resistance portion 160B is formed in the second discharge path 140B, the sealing water staying on the second chamber bottom surface 100B of the manifold 85 of the fuel cell 8 is supplied from the second discharge port 120B. Excessive discharge can be suppressed, which is advantageous for retaining sealing water on the bottom surface 100B of the second chamber 85 of the manifold 85 of the fuel cell 8.
[0037]
  (Fourth embodiment)
  FIG. 4 shows a fourth embodiment embodying the present invention. The fourth embodiment has basically the same configuration as the third embodiment, and basically has the same operational effects. In the following, different parts will be mainly described. According to the present embodiment, the discharge path 140 is formed with a throttle 180 that functions as a water flow resistance portion. Even when the closing operation of the valve portion 202 of the check valve 200 is delayed, or even when the pressure in the chamber 10r of the condensing portion 10 becomes momentarily excessive, the throttle 180 as a water flow resistance portion. Is formed in the discharge path 140, it is possible to suppress excessive discharge of the sealing water remaining on the bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10 from the discharge port 120, and the bottom surface of the condensing unit 10. It is advantageous to retain the sealing water at 100.
[0038]
  Further, a second throttle 180B that functions as a water flow resistance portion is also formed in the second discharge path 140B extending from the second chamber bottom surface 100B of the manifold 85 of the fuel cell. Even when the closing operation of the second valve portion 202B of the second check valve 200B is delayed due to circumstances, or even when the pressure in the manifold 85 becomes momentarily excessive, the water resistance portion Since the second throttle portion 180B is formed in the second discharge passage 140B, the sealing water staying on the second chamber bottom surface 100B of the manifold 85 of the fuel cell 8 is excessively discharged from the second discharge port 120B. Can be suppressed. Therefore, it is advantageous for retaining a necessary amount of sealing water on the bottom surface 100B of the second chamber of the manifold 85 of the fuel cell 8. The throttle 180 is provided below the check valve 200 in the discharge path 140, and the second throttle 180B is provided below the second check valve 200B in the second discharge path 140B. However, the present invention is not limited to this.
[0039]
  (5th Example)
  FIG. 5 shows a fifth embodiment embodying the present invention. The fifth embodiment has basically the same configuration as the first embodiment, and basically has the same function and effect. In the following, different parts will be mainly described. The check valve 200C that functions as a discharge valve includes a valve portion 202C that can open and close the valve port 201C communicating with the discharge passage 140, and an elastic portion that urges the valve portion 202C in a direction to close the valve port 201C. Coil-shaped spring part 203C, and a base part 205C that holds the valve part 202C and the spring part 203C and has a valve port 201C. When the water pressure received by the pressure receiving surface 204C of the valve portion 202C overcomes the spring force of the spring portion 203C, the valve portion 201C operates in the opening direction to open the valve port 201C of the base portion 205C. When the water pressure received by the pressure receiving surface 204C of the valve portion 202C decreases, the valve portion 202C operates in the closing direction to close the valve port 201C of the base portion 205C.
[0040]
  (Sixth embodiment)
  FIG. 6 shows a sixth embodiment embodying the present invention. The sixth embodiment has basically the same configuration as that of the first embodiment, and basically has the same functions and effects. In the following, different parts will be mainly described. The check valve 200D that functions as a discharge valve includes a valve portion 202D that can open and close the valve port 201D communicating with the discharge passage 140, and an elastic portion that urges the valve portion 202D in a direction to close the valve port 201D. And a base portion 205D which holds the valve portion 202D and the spring portion 203D and has a valve port 201D. When the water pressure received by the pressure receiving surface 204D of the valve portion 202D overcomes the spring force of the spring portion 203D, the valve port 202D of the base portion 205D is opened by operating in the direction in which the valve portion 202D opens. When the water pressure received by the pressure receiving surface 204D of the valve portion 202D decreases, the valve portion 202D operates in the closing direction to close the valve port 201D of the base portion 205C. The male screw portion 208D of the movable portion 207D is screwed to the female screw portion 206D of the base portion 205D so as to be able to advance and retract. If a tool is put in the groove 209D of the movable part 207D to rotate the movable part 207D and the male screw part 208D is screwed back and forth as appropriate, the position of the movable part 207D can be adjusted in the direction of the spring force of the spring part 203D. Thus, the spring force of the spring portion 203D can be adjusted, and consequently the amount of water pressure when the check valve 200D is opened can be adjusted.
[0041]
  (Seventh embodiment)
  FIG. 7 shows a seventh embodiment embodying the present invention. The seventh embodiment has basically the same configuration as the first embodiment, and basically has the same function and effect. In the following, different parts will be mainly described. The check valve 200E functioning as a discharge valve includes a valve portion 202E mainly formed of rubber or resin as an elastically deformable polymer organic material capable of opening and closing the valve port 201E communicating with the discharge passage 140. And a base portion 205E having a valve port 201E and holding the valve portion 202E. When the water pressure received by the pressure receiving surface 204E of the valve portion 202E increases, the valve portion 202E is elastically deformed in response to the water pressure, and the valve port 201E is opened. When the water pressure received by the pressure receiving surface 204E of the valve portion 202E decreases, the valve portion 202E operates in the closing direction to close the valve port 201E of the base portion 205E.
[0042]
  (Application example)
  Hereinafter, application examples of the present invention will be described. FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram of a stationary fuel cell device. As shown in FIG. 8, the fuel cell device according to this example is provided with a reforming system 1M that generates a hydrogen-containing gas suitable for power generation by causing a reforming reaction between fuel gas as fuel and water vapor. . The reforming system 1M includes a reforming unit 1 that generates a hydrogen-containing gas suitable for power generation by causing a reforming reaction by reacting a fuel gas and steam, and steam used for the reforming reaction by evaporating raw water. The generated evaporation unit 2, the reforming unit 1 is composed of a combustion unit 13 for heating the reforming unit 1 to a temperature range suitable for the reforming reaction, and a CO removing unit 5. Since the heat of the combustion unit 13 is transmitted to the reforming unit 1, the reforming unit 1 is set to a high temperature so as to be suitable for the reforming reaction. The CO removing unit 5 removes carbon monoxide contained in the hydrogen-containing gas generated in the reforming unit 1. The CO removal unit 5 includes a CO shift unit that reduces carbon monoxide by a shift reaction and a CO selective oxidation unit that reduces carbon monoxide using air, but is not limited thereto.
[0043]
  A fuel gas supply passage (fuel supply passage) 4 for supplying the fuel gas to the reforming section 1 through the heat exchange section 3 is provided. The upstream end of the fuel gas supply passage 4 is connected to a fuel gas source 15 (city gas pipe), and supplies fuel gas containing at least one of methane, propane, butane and the like as a main component. The fuel gas supply passage 4 is provided with a dual valve 29 composed of two valves 27 and 28 arranged side by side, a fuel gas transfer pump 4p, a desulfurization section 4a, a valve 4b, and a junction section 4c. The merging section 4 c merges and mixes the fuel gas from the fuel gas supply passage 4 and the water vapor evaporated in the evaporation section 2, and supplies the mixed gas to the reforming section 1 through the heat exchange section 3.
[0044]
  A combustion unit communication passage 14 for supplying combustion fuel gas to the combustion unit 13 is provided. The combustion part communication path 14 connects the fuel gas supply path 4 and the combustion part 13 via the branch part 4m. The combustion unit communication passage 14 is provided with a pump 14 p as a gas transport source that transports combustion fuel gas toward the combustion unit 13. The fuel gas supplied from the fuel gas supply passage 4 is supplied to the combustion portion 13 via the combustion portion communication passage 14 by the pump 14p and is used for the combustion reaction in the combustion portion 13, so that the combustion portion 13 becomes high temperature. Since the reforming unit 10 is heated by the combustion unit 13, the temperature of the reforming unit 1 can be maintained in a temperature range so as to be suitable for the reforming reaction. Can be effectively generated.
[0045]
  As shown in FIG. 8, a fuel cell 8 is provided. The fuel cell 8 generates power using air (oxidant gas) as an oxygen-containing gas and a hydrogen-containing gas. The fuel cell 8 is of a polymer electrolyte type, and is composed of a stack in which a plurality of cells using proton conductive polymer membranes as electrolytes are stacked. A hydrogen supply passage 9 (fuel supply passage) for supplying the hydrogen-containing gas generated in the reforming unit 1 to the fuel electrode of the fuel cell 8 through the valve 9a is provided.
[0046]
  As shown in FIG. 8, an air supply passage 16 (oxidant supply passage) for supplying power generation air as an oxygen-containing gas to the air electrode of the fuel cell 8 is provided. The air supply passage 16 is provided with a filter 16a for air cleaning, a fan 16b for air conveyance, and a humidifying unit 20 for air humidification. The humidifying unit 20 humidifies air that is an oxygen-containing gas supplied to the fuel cell 8. If the electrolyte membrane of the fuel cell 8 is excessively dried, the power generation efficiency of the fuel cell 8 is reduced, so that the air supplied to the air electrode of the fuel cell 8 is humidified.
[0047]
  A fuel off-gas passage 12 is provided for flowing the off-gas of the hydrogen-containing gas after power generation discharged from the outlet 8 e of the fuel electrode of the fuel cell 8 to the combustion unit 13. The fuel off-gas passage 12 is provided with a valve 10a, a condensing part 10 on the fuel electrode side, and a valve 10c. The condensing unit 10 on the fuel electrode side is provided between the combustion unit 13 and the fuel cell 8 in the fuel off-gas passage 12, and the hydrogen-containing gas discharged from the fuel electrode outlet 8 e of the fuel cell 8. Remove moisture contained in the off-gas. As a result, the off-gas from which moisture has been removed is supplied to the combustion section 13 via the fuel off-gas passage 12 and used as a combustion reaction. Since the off-gas from which moisture has been removed is supplied to the combustion unit 13 and used as a combustion reaction, the off-gas of the hydrogen-containing gas can be reused. At this time, since the moisture contained in the off-gas of the hydrogen-containing gas is removed, the temperature drop of the combustion part 13 is suppressed, and the combustion reaction in the combustion part 13 can be performed satisfactorily.
[0048]
  An air off-gas passage (oxidant off-gas passage) 18 through which the off-gas of the generated air discharged from the air electrode of the fuel cell 8 flows and is discharged into the atmosphere is provided. A humidifying unit 20 is provided in the air off-gas passage 18.
[0049]
  A raw material water supply passage 7 for connecting a water pipe as a water supply source and the evaporation unit 2 is provided. The water supplied to the evaporation unit 2 from the raw water supply passage 7 is heated in the evaporation unit 2 to become water vapor, and is used for the reforming reaction in the reforming unit 1. The raw water supply passage 7 includes a raw water purification filter 7a, a valve 7b and a valve 7c, a water purification device 7d for increasing the purification degree of the raw water, a water tank 6, a raw water feed pump 7f, and an open / close control valve 7h. Is provided. The water tank 6 is disposed below the condensing unit 10, and the condensing unit 10 and the water tank 6 are connected via the discharge path 140. Water staying in the condensing unit 10 at the bottom surface 100 moves to the water tank 6 through the discharge path 140 and the check valve 200.
[0050]
  Further, as shown in FIG. 8, a cooling passage 22 for the battery through which the cooling water that takes the heat of the fuel cell 8 flows is provided. The battery cooling passage 22 is provided with a pump 22p and a heat exchange section 23. A hot water storage section 26 that deprives the heat generated in the entire fuel cell device and stores it as hot water is provided together with a hot water temperature sensor 26n. A heat exchange passage 31 extending from the discharge port 26i of the hot water storage section 26 is provided with a pump 31p for conveying cooling water and a condensing section 10 on the fuel side, and a plurality of unillustrated heats at appropriate portions. An exchange unit is provided. Therefore, the cooling water that has flowed from the hot water storage section 26 through the heat exchange passage 31 passes through the fuel-side condensing section 10, and further flows through a plurality of heat exchange sections (not shown) provided at appropriate portions, and is heated by heat exchange, It returns to the inlet 26o of the hot water storage section 26 through the exchange section 23. For this reason, the cooling water stored in the hot water storage section 26 is heated and becomes hot water. Hot water that is the cooling water of the hot water storage section 26 can be used as a hot water supply source for other purposes. The hot water storage section 26 is replenished with water from a water supply source through a supply passage 26k. Various signals (S1, S2, etc.) are input to the control device 39.
[0051]
  Also in this example, the check valve 200 serving as the discharge valve is closed at the normal time. When the check valve 200 is closed in this way, water staying on the bottom surface 100 of the chamber 10r of the condensing unit 10 is prevented from being discharged from the discharge port 120 to the discharge path 140. For this reason, a necessary amount of water stays on the bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10. As described above, if water stays on the bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10, the discharge port 120 of the bottom surface 100 is covered and sealed with the remaining water, so that the hydrogen-containing gas of the condensing unit 10 is sealed. The off gas is suppressed from leaking from the discharge port 120 on the bottom surface 100 to the discharge path 140 and the water tank 6 side.
[0052]
  When the operation of the fuel cell 8 is continued, the off gas of the hydrogen-containing gas is supplied to the condensing unit 10 one after another from the outlet 8e of the fuel electrode of the fuel cell 8, so that the amount of accumulated water in the chamber bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10 gradually increases. To increase. When the amount of accumulated water in the chamber bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10 exceeds the set value, the valve unit 202 of the check valve 200 is automatically opened, and the valve port 201 of the check valve 200 is opened. That is, the valve portion 202 of the check valve 200 is automatically opened in response to the water pressure based on the amount of water remaining on the bottom surface 100 of the chamber 10r of the condensing unit 10, and the water on the bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10 is The water is recovered in the water tank 6 through the discharge port 120 and the discharge path 140. This prevents excessive water from staying on the bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10, secures the volume of the chamber 10 r above the bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10, and supplies off-gas supplied to the chamber 10 r of the condensing unit 10. Can be dried by condensation. The water collected in the water tank 6 is sent to the evaporation unit 2 and reused as water vapor used for the reforming reaction.
[0053]
  When the amount of staying water in the chamber bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10 becomes less than the set value, the valve unit 202 of the check valve 200 is automatically closed by the spring force of the spring unit 203. That is, the check valve 200 is automatically closed in response to the amount of water remaining on the bottom surface 100 of the chamber 10r of the condensing unit 10. Therefore, a necessary amount of water remains on the bottom surface 100 of the condensing unit 10, and the discharge port 120 is covered and sealed with the remaining water, so that the off-gas of the hydrogen-containing gas in the condensing unit 10 is The leakage from the discharge port 120 on the bottom surface 100 to the discharge path 140 and the water tank 6 side is suppressed.
[0054]
  As described above, also in the fuel cell device according to this example, unlike the prior art, an electric high level sensor, a low level sensor, and an electromagnetic valve that is opened based on detection signals from these sensors are provided. Can be abolished. Therefore, it is advantageous in reducing power consumption and reducing the size. In particular, the solenoid valve is equipped with an excitation solenoid, which is disadvantageous in reducing power consumption and reducing the size. However, according to the fuel cell device of the present invention, the solenoid valve having the excitation solenoid can be eliminated. This is advantageous both in terms of power consumption reduction and size reduction.
[0055]
  (Other)
  In the first embodiment described above, the check valve 200 is provided in the discharge passage 140 extending from the condensing unit 10 through which the hydrogen-containing gas or off-gas flows. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the hydrogen-containing gas or off-gas flows. A discharge path connecting the gas passage member other than the condensing unit 10 provided in the path and the water tank 6 may be provided, and a check valve may be provided in the discharge path.
[0056]
  In the first embodiment described above, the fuel gas source 15 is a city gas pipe. However, the fuel gas source 15 is not limited to this and may be a gas tank loaded with a fuel gas such as hydrogen gas. Although fuel gas (city gas etc.) is used as a fuel, it is not restricted to this. Although air is used as the oxygen-containing gas that is an oxidizing agent, the present invention is not limited to this. In the first embodiment described above, the check valve 200 is provided in the discharge passage 140 extending downward from the discharge port 120. However, the check valve 200 may be provided in the discharge port 120 itself. . In this case, it is necessary to retain water on the bottom surface 100 for applying water pressure for opening the check valve 200.
[0057]
  In the first embodiment described above, the water generated in the chamber 10r of the condensing unit 10 is retained on the bottom surface 100 of the chamber 10r of the condensing unit 10 as described above. Water may be retained only between the discharge port 120 and the check valve 200 in the passage 140, and the discharge port 120 may be sealed with the retained water.
[0058]
  The fuel cell device according to the present invention is not limited to the example having the piping system shown in the above-described embodiments and application examples. Moreover, although the application example described above is applied to a stationary fuel cell device, the present invention is not limited thereto, and may be applied to a fuel cell device mounted on a vehicle. In addition, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be implemented with appropriate modifications within a range not departing from the gist.
[0059]
  The following technical idea can also be grasped from the above description.
(Additional Item 1) A fuel cell having a fuel electrode and an oxidant electrode;
A chamber bottom surface in which water generated based on water contained in at least one of the fuel gas, the off gas, the oxidant gas, and the off gas thereof can stay, and a discharge port formed on the chamber bottom surface; A gas passage member having
  Water discharged from the discharge port of the gas passage member toward the drainage portion provided below the discharge port on the bottom surface of the chamber of the gas passage member and collected in the bottom surface of the chamber. In the fuel cell device comprising a discharge path for discharging from the drainage section to the drainage section, the discharge path or the discharge port includes:
  It is normally closed, and the discharge of water from the discharge passage to the drainage portion is prevented with the closing, and the drain is opened in response to the water pressure and the water is discharged to the drainage portion through the discharge passage with the opening. A fuel cell device comprising a water pressure responsive discharge valve.
(Additional Item 2) A fuel cell having a fuel electrode supplied with fuel and an oxidant electrode supplied with oxidant gas;
  A chamber bottom surface in which water generated based on water contained in at least one of the fuel gas, the off gas, the oxidant gas, and the off gas thereof can stay, and a discharge port formed on the chamber bottom surface; A gas passage member having
  To the drainage part such as a water tank provided below the discharge port on the bottom surface of the chamber of the gas passage member, extending downward from the discharge port on the bottom surface of the chamber of the gas passage member, A fuel cell device comprising a discharge passage for discharging water accumulated on the bottom surface of the chamber from the discharge port to the water tank;
  The discharge passage or the discharge port is normally closed, and the discharge port on the bottom surface of the chamber is sealed with water along with the closing, and is opened in response to the water pressure of the accumulated water on the bottom surface of the chamber. Accordingly, a fuel cell apparatus is provided with a water pressure responsive discharge valve for discharging water on the bottom surface of the chamber to the water tank through the discharge path.
(Additional Item 3) In each claim and each additional item, a water flow resistance portion is provided in the discharge passage. Excessive discharge of the remaining water can be suppressed.
[0060]
【The invention's effect】
  According to the fuel cell device of the present invention, the water pressure response type discharge valve is provided in the discharge path or the discharge port. This discharge valve is normally closed, and when the discharge valve is closed,Condensing partThe fuel gas supplied to the chamber or off gasCondensing partLeakage from the discharge port on the bottom of the chamber to the drain is suppressed. When the amount of accumulated water increases and the water pressure increases, the discharge valve opens in response to the increased water pressure, and the accumulated water is discharged to the drainage part such as a water tank through the discharge path, thereby discharging excess accumulated water. be able to.
[0061]
  According to such a fuel cell device of the present invention, the conventionally used electric high level sensor, low level sensor, and further, the solenoid valve that opens based on the detection signals from these sensors are eliminated. be able to. Therefore, it is advantageous in reducing power consumption and reducing the size. In particular, the solenoid valve is equipped with an excitation solenoid, which is disadvantageous in reducing power consumption and reducing the size. However, according to the fuel cell device of the present invention, the solenoid valve having the excitation solenoid can be eliminated. This is advantageous both in terms of power consumption reduction and size reduction.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel cell device according to a first embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel cell device according to a second embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel cell device according to a third embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel cell device according to a fourth embodiment.
FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the inside of a check valve according to a fifth embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the inside of a check valve according to a sixth embodiment.
FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the inside of a check valve according to a seventh embodiment.
FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram of a fuel cell device according to an application example.
[Explanation of symbols]
  In the figure, 6 is a water tank (drainage part), 8 is a fuel cell, 10 is a condensing part, 10r is a chamber, 100 is a chamber bottom, 120 is a discharge port, 140 is a discharge path, and 200 is a check valve (discharge valve). , 210 is a valve port, 202 is a valve portion, and 203 is a spring portion.

Claims (3)

A fuel cell having a fuel electrode and an oxidant electrode;
A chamber for passing the fuel gas Oh Fugasu, a chamber bottom water produced is capable residence by condensing the moisture contained in the chamber of the fuel gas Oh Fugasu, formed in the chamber bottom surface And a condensing part that seals the discharge port by retaining water necessary for sealing at the bottom of the chamber ,
The extended from the discharge port of the condenser section downward toward the drainage portion provided below the said discharge port of said chamber bottom surface of the condensing unit, the accumulated water in the chamber bottom surface from said discharge port A discharge path for discharging to the drainage part,
The chamber bottom surface of the condensing part is inclined downward toward the discharge port so that water flows down toward the discharge port,
In the discharge path,
It is closed during normal, in co when blocking the discharge of water from the discharge passage with the closing to the drainage unit, the water with the then open open in response to water pressure on the water discharge portion via the discharge passage A water pressure response type discharge valve is provided.
The discharge valve includes a valve port communicating with the discharge passage, a valve portion capable of opening and closing the valve port, and the valve portion against a water pressure of the discharge passage in a direction in which the valve portion closes the valve port. And an elastic part that biases
The gas pressure in the chamber of the condensing part is P1, the water pressure based on the height h1 of the water staying on the bottom surface of the condenser is P2, and the height of water from the discharge port to the valve part When the water pressure based on h2 is P3 and the total pressure of P1 + P2 + P3 is pressure PA,
The pressure PA acts as a valve opening force for opening the valve portion of the discharge valve, and in a normal state, the urging force of the elastic portion of the discharge valve is set to overcome the pressure PA, The valve portion of the discharge valve normally closes the valve port,
The fuel cell device according to claim 1, wherein when the pressure PA overcomes the urging force of the elastic portion of the discharge valve, the valve portion of the discharge valve opens the valve port . Fuel cell apparatus Oite to claim 1, the hydraulic resistance unit which gives resistance to the water flow, characterized in that provided below the discharge valve of the discharge passage. 3. The fuel cell device according to claim 2 , wherein the water flow resistance portion is formed by bending a part of the discharge passage or formed by a throttle.

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