WO2007018156A1 - 燃料電池用セパレータ及び燃料電池 - Google Patents
燃料電池用セパレータ及び燃料電池 Download PDFInfo
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- WO2007018156A1 WO2007018156A1 PCT/JP2006/315524 JP2006315524W WO2007018156A1 WO 2007018156 A1 WO2007018156 A1 WO 2007018156A1 JP 2006315524 W JP2006315524 W JP 2006315524W WO 2007018156 A1 WO2007018156 A1 WO 2007018156A1
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- flow
- protrusions
- fuel cell
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Classifications
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
- H01M8/00—Fuel cells; Manufacture thereof
- H01M8/02—Details
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
- H01M8/00—Fuel cells; Manufacture thereof
- H01M8/02—Details
- H01M8/0202—Collectors; Separators, e.g. bipolar separators; Interconnectors
- H01M8/0258—Collectors; Separators, e.g. bipolar separators; Interconnectors characterised by the configuration of channels, e.g. by the flow field of the reactant or coolant
- H01M8/026—Collectors; Separators, e.g. bipolar separators; Interconnectors characterised by the configuration of channels, e.g. by the flow field of the reactant or coolant characterised by grooves, e.g. their pitch or depth
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
- H01M8/00—Fuel cells; Manufacture thereof
- H01M8/02—Details
- H01M8/0202—Collectors; Separators, e.g. bipolar separators; Interconnectors
- H01M8/0258—Collectors; Separators, e.g. bipolar separators; Interconnectors characterised by the configuration of channels, e.g. by the flow field of the reactant or coolant
- H01M8/0263—Collectors; Separators, e.g. bipolar separators; Interconnectors characterised by the configuration of channels, e.g. by the flow field of the reactant or coolant having meandering or serpentine paths
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
- H01M8/00—Fuel cells; Manufacture thereof
- H01M8/02—Details
- H01M8/0202—Collectors; Separators, e.g. bipolar separators; Interconnectors
- H01M8/0258—Collectors; Separators, e.g. bipolar separators; Interconnectors characterised by the configuration of channels, e.g. by the flow field of the reactant or coolant
- H01M8/0265—Collectors; Separators, e.g. bipolar separators; Interconnectors characterised by the configuration of channels, e.g. by the flow field of the reactant or coolant the reactant or coolant channels having varying cross sections
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
- H01M8/00—Fuel cells; Manufacture thereof
- H01M8/10—Fuel cells with solid electrolytes
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
- H01M8/00—Fuel cells; Manufacture thereof
- H01M8/10—Fuel cells with solid electrolytes
- H01M2008/1095—Fuel cells with polymeric electrolytes
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E60/00—Enabling technologies; Technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to GHG emissions mitigation
- Y02E60/30—Hydrogen technology
- Y02E60/50—Fuel cells
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a fuel cell separator and a fuel cell.
- a polymer electrolyte fuel cell (hereinafter referred to as "PEFC" as required) is an electrochemical cell that uses a fuel gas containing hydrogen and an oxidant gas containing oxygen such as air. By reacting, electric power and heat are generated simultaneously.
- a fuel cell has a membrane electrode assembly called MEA.
- the MEA is sandwiched between a pair of conductive separators (specifically, a pair of separators composed of an anode separator and a force sword separator) such that gaskets are disposed on both peripheral edges of the MEA.
- a PEFC generally has a configuration in which a plurality of MEA units are stacked between a pair of conductive separators.
- the surface of the anode separator is a serpentine type fuel gas flow area force through which fuel gas (a gas containing the reducing agent supplied to the anode among the reaction gases) flows.
- Fuel gas supply path (fuel gas supply It is formed by connecting the fuel hole and the fuel gas discharge passage (fuel gas discharge hole).
- This fuel gas flow region is composed of a plurality of fuel gas flow channel grooves formed so as to connect the fuel gas supply channel and the fuel gas discharge channel.
- the plurality of fuel gas channel grooves are bent in a serpentine shape so as to be along each other, thereby forming the serpentine type fuel gas flow region described above.
- a serpentine type oxidant gas flow region through which an oxidant gas (a gas containing an oxidant supplied to the anode among the reaction gases) flows is provided on the surface of the force sword separator. It is formed by connecting a supply path (oxidant gas supply hole) and an oxidant gas discharge path (oxidant gas discharge hole).
- the oxidant gas flow region is composed of a plurality of oxidant gas flow grooves formed so as to connect the oxidant gas supply path and the oxidant gas discharge path.
- the plurality of oxidant gas channel grooves are arranged along each other and are supported. This is bent in the shape of a single pentane, thereby forming the serpentine type oxidant gas flow region described above.
- a reaction gas merging region for merging the flow channel grooves is provided at the folded portion of the plurality of flow channel grooves, and sufficient drainage performance of condensed water generated in the flow channel grooves is improved.
- a separator intended to improve the gas diffusion performance of the reaction gas from the gas to the gas diffusion electrode and reduce the flow resistance (pressure loss) has been proposed (for example, Patent Document 2 and Patent Document 4).
- a plurality of protrusions are provided on the bottom surface of the recesses communicating with the plurality of flow channel grooves.
- Patent Document 1 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-250923
- Patent Document 2 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-106594
- Patent Document 3 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2000-294261
- Patent Document 4 Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2000-164230
- the folded portion (lattice groove; confluence region) described in Patent Document 2 covers the entire width of a plurality of flow channel grooves (at both ends) for the purpose of improving the gas mixing promotion of the reaction gas.
- Grid-like grooves are formed so as to extend between the channel grooves.
- the lattice grooves are provided so as to form a straight boundary perpendicular to the plurality of flow channel grooves (to form a quadrilateral merge region), in the lattice grooves, there is no reaction. Gas may accumulate.
- reaction gas distribution property to the plurality of flow channel grooves located downstream of the lattice-shaped grooves is reduced due to the staying state of the reaction gas, and as a result, the flow groove between each flow channel here.
- the reaction gas flow rate may become uneven.
- the present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and can sufficiently improve the uniformity of the reaction gas flow rate (sufficiently reduce the reaction gas flow rate noise),
- An object of the present invention is to provide a fuel cell separator and a fuel cell that can appropriately and sufficiently suppress flooding due to excessive condensate.
- a serpentine formed in a plate shape and having a reactive gas flow region in which a reactive gas flows on at least one main surface has a plurality of straight portions and one or more folded portions provided between the plurality of straight portions. Formed in a shape,
- a plurality of flow dividing regions each including at least the straight portion of the plurality of straight portions and the one or more folded portions, and having a channel groove group to which the reaction gas is divided;
- a recessed portion that is formed in at least one of the one or more folded portions and serves as a space in which the reaction gas is mixed; and a plurality of protrusions that are erected from the bottom surface of the recessed portion and arranged in an island shape And is disposed between a flow path groove group of the adjacent flow division area on the adjacent upstream side of the plurality of flow division areas and a flow path groove group of the flow division area on the downstream side, and the upstream
- the reaction gas flowing in from the channel groove group of the flow dividing region on the side is merged at the recess, and the combined reaction gas is re-divided into the flow dividing region on the downstream side.
- the pair of the upstream-side flow channel grooves and the downstream side communicated with the hollow portion in the folded portion of the reaction gas flow region. Is formed so as to be partitioned by an oblique boundary between the channel groove group on the side and the outer end of the folded portion,
- a fuel cell separator is provided.
- the groove of the flow channel groove in the diversion area located upstream of the merging area adjacent to the merging area Since the number of flow channels is larger than the number of flow channel grooves in the shunt region located downstream of the flow channel, the amount of reaction gas consumed when the reaction gas flows through the flow channel grooves is taken into consideration.
- the variation in the reaction gas flow rate of the reaction gas is sufficiently reduced, and the reaction gas flow rate can be set appropriately and close to the state of the conventional separator.
- the boundary between the merging region of the reaction gas and the pair of upstream-side channel groove groups and downstream-side channel groove groups communicating with the recesses is in the direction of the channel groove group. Due to the slanted section, the reaction gas flows uniformly in this confluence region, and the distribution of the reaction gas to the flow channel on the downstream side is not lowered, and the uniformity of the reaction gas flow rate is maintained.
- the recess of the confluence region and the recess is the outer edge of the merging area as the bottom, and the upstream diversion from both ends of the bottom to the depression. It is preferable that it is formed so as to project into an arcuate shape toward the apex located in the vicinity of the boundary line between the region and the downstream flow dividing region connected to the depression part! /.
- the reaction gas can be made to flow uniformly over substantially the entire area of the indented portion (for example, the reaction gas is appropriately supplied to the corner of the indented portion).
- the reaction gas distribution to the channel groove on the downstream side of the recess is reduced, and the uniformity of the reaction gas flow rate is further improved (the variation in the reaction gas flow rate is further reduced). That's right.
- the shape protruding in the above-mentioned bow shape is a substantially triangular shape. More preferred to be.
- each side of the triangle may not be a strict straight line as long as the effect of the present invention can be obtained. For example, it may be a curve that swells in a bow shape outside the triangle, or may be a step-like discontinuous line that may be a curve that is bowed inside the triangle.
- the shape protruding in the above-described bow shape is substantially semicircular. More preferred to be.
- the reaction gas can be made to flow uniformly over substantially the entire area of the hollow portion (for example, the reaction gas can be appropriately supplied to the corner of the hollow portion).
- the uniformity of the reaction gas flow rate is further improved (the variation in the reaction gas flow rate is further sufficiently reduced) without reducing the distribution of the reaction gas to the flow channel downstream of the recess. Is possible.
- the shape of the substantially semicircular shape may not be a strict semicircle as long as the effect of the present invention can be obtained.
- a semicircular (or semielliptical) curved portion that may be semi-elliptical may be a step-like discontinuous line other than a smooth curve.
- the diversion region includes the linear portion and the folded portion.
- the number of grooves in the straight portion and the number of grooves in the folded portion connected to the straight portion are the same. It is preferable to be formed as follows (see FIGS. 2 and 6 described later).
- a relatively long channel groove can be formed. That is, the flow path length per one of each flow path groove included in the branch area disposed between the two merge areas can be increased.
- the flow channel groove having such a long flow channel length has a large difference between the gas pressure exerted on the upstream side of the water droplet and the gas pressure exerted on the downstream side even when water droplets are generated in the flow channel groove. Excellent drainage can be obtained.
- the reactive gas flow area force a gas outlet mold for discharging the discharged gas to the outside;
- the straight line portion of the shunt region arranged at the most upstream side among the plurality of shunt regions is connected to the gas inlet manifold U.
- the merging region in the present invention is not disposed immediately after the gas inlet mall, and is not disposed immediately before the gas outlet mall.
- a part of the reaction gas must flow into the gap formed between the outer peripheral edge of the MEA gas diffusion electrode and the inner peripheral edge of the annular gasket arranged outside the MEA. Can be easily reduced. Further, it is possible to simplify the configuration for preventing a part of the reaction gas from flowing into the gap.
- the flow path for supplying the reaction gas from the gas inlet manifold to the reaction gas flow region is as follows. Cross the gap.
- the gap there is a gap between the gas inlet manifold and the reaction gas flow region, and the flow path for discharging the gas discharged to the reaction gas flow region force is the gap.
- a configuration for gas sealing is required so that the flow path for supplying the reaction gas does not communicate with the gap. If there is no configuration for gas sealing! In the case of the gas inlet hold force, the reaction gas supplied is not supplied to the reaction gas flow area but flows into the gap and proceeds through the gap. As a result, a lot of useless gas (gas not used in MEA) flows into the gas outlet manifold.
- the gas diffusion electrode and gasket made of synthetic resin
- the gasket synthetic material
- the contact surface of the resin will sag and increase the flow resistance (pressure loss). Therefore, like the separators described in Patent Document 2 and Patent Document 4 described above, the merging region (described as “inlet-side flow groove” in Patent Document 2 and Patent Document 4) is located immediately after the gas inlet manifold.
- the straight line portion of the flow dividing region arranged on the most downstream side among the plurality of flow dividing regions is connected to the gas outlet manifold.
- the merging region in the present invention is not disposed immediately after the gas inlet mall, and is not disposed immediately before the gas outlet mall.
- a part of the reaction gas must flow into the gap formed between the outer peripheral edge of the MEA gas diffusion electrode and the inner peripheral edge of the annular gasket arranged outside the MEA. Can be more easily reduced.
- the configuration for preventing a part of the reaction gas from flowing into the gap can be simplified, and the configuration can be easily formed.
- the plurality of flow split regions are not provided.
- the shunt region arranged on the most downstream side may have the folded portion where the merge region is not formed, and the folded portion may be connected to the gas outlet manifold.
- the configuration for preventing a part of the reaction gas from flowing into the gap can be simplified and the configuration can be easily formed.
- a gas inlet manifold for supplying the reaction gas from the outside to the reaction gas flow area
- the reactive gas flow area force a gas outlet mold for discharging the discharged gas to the outside;
- the shunt region arranged on the most upstream side is formed with the joining region, and has the folded portion, and the folded portion is connected to the gas inlet manifold. Well, okay.
- the configuration for preventing a part of the reaction gas from flowing into the gap can be simplified, and the configuration can be easily formed.
- the merging region is not arranged immediately after the gas inlet manifold in this manner (when the folded portion is arranged without the merging region immediately after the gas inlet manifold), It is preferable that the straight line portion of the flow dividing region arranged on the most downstream side among the plurality of flow dividing regions is connected to the gas outlet mall U.
- the configuration for preventing a part of the reaction gas from flowing into the gap can be simplified and the configuration can be easily formed.
- a shunt region arranged on the most downstream side of the plurality of shunt regions has the folded portion where the merge region is not formed, and the folded portion is connected to the gas outlet manifold.
- the configuration for preventing part of the reaction gas from flowing into the gap can be simplified and the configuration can be easily formed.
- the surface of the separator corresponding to the diverting region crosses the flow channel group.
- a concave-convex pattern comprising a plurality of concave portions having a uniform width, a uniform pitch, and a uniform step, and a plurality of convex portions having a uniform width, a uniform pitch, and a uniform step, wherein the concave portion is the channel groove group.
- the convex portion is a rib that supports the electrode portion in contact with the main surface.
- the electrode portion (gas diffusion electrode) hangs down equally inside the flow channel groove (concave portion) arranged with a uniform pitch, a uniform width, and a uniform step.
- the non-uniformity (variation) of the flow resistance (pressure loss) of the reaction gas between the flow channel grooves can be sufficiently suppressed.
- the plurality of protrusions when viewed from a substantially normal direction of the main surface, have one or more protrusions spaced in the extending direction of the outer end. A plurality of consecutive rows are formed, and at least one of the protrusions is arranged in a direction perpendicular to the extending direction of the outer end so as to form a plurality of consecutive steps.
- the imaginary line parallel to the extending direction is drawn through the center of the protrusion that constitutes the protrusion, the center of the protrusion adjacent to the protrusion constituting the one stage in the extending direction is the imaginary line.
- Line force U preferably biased in the vertical direction.
- the plurality of protrusions when viewed from a substantially normal direction of the main surface, have one or more protrusions spaced in the extending direction of the outer end. A plurality of consecutive rows, and one or more of the protrusions are spaced in a direction perpendicular to the extending direction of the outer end to form a plurality of consecutive steps.
- the center of the protrusion adjacent in the perpendicular direction to the protrusion constituting the one row is the imaginary line. It is preferable to deviate from the line in the extending direction!
- the gas-liquid two-phase flow easily passes through the gap between the protrusions when the gas-liquid two-phase flow moves in the left-right direction or the up-down direction through the depression. This prevents the gas-liquid two-phase flow from hitting the projections properly several times and disturbing the flow. As a result, flooding due to excessive condensate in the fuel gas flow channel on the downstream side of the recess can be more reliably suppressed.
- each of the rows is composed of the protrusions constituting every other stage.
- the shape of the protrusion may be any shape as long as the effect of the present invention is exhibited.
- a substantially cylindrical shape a substantially triangular prism shape, and a substantially quadrangular prism shape. It has at least one kind of shape chosen.
- the substantially cylindrical shape in the present specification includes a circular cross section perpendicular to the standing direction including a substantially circular cylindrical shape and a distorted circular shape (for example, an elliptical shape).
- the substantially triangular prism shape in this specification refers to a triangle (for example, a right angle) that has three cross-sectional sections perpendicular to the standing direction and three line segments that connect the three points that are not on the same straight line.
- the substantially quadrangular prism shape in the present specification is a quadrilateral (rectangular, square) in which the circular cross section perpendicular to the standing direction is four points that are not on the same straight line and four line segments that connect them. Shape, parallelogram, trapezoid, etc.), including polygonal prisms with slightly rounded corners.
- staggered arrangement the above-described arrangement pattern of protrusions “consisting of the protrusions in which each of the columns constitute every other stage” is referred to as “staggered arrangement”.
- the protrusions are arranged at intervals corresponding to the diameter of the circular cross section of the protrusions at each step, and the protrusions are arranged at intervals of three times the diameter in each row.
- the protrusions are regularly arranged in a zigzag arrangement in the surface of the recess, and it is possible to contribute more effectively by realizing the uniform distribution of condensed water between the channel grooves (reducing non-uniform distribution).
- the outer end bends so as to form an outer end projecting piece projecting toward the recess.
- the first protrusion and the second protrusion having different width dimensions in the extending direction and Z or the perpendicular direction are in the extending direction of the outer end. It may be arranged so as to form a plurality of consecutive steps at intervals in the vertical direction.
- the center between the first protrusion and the second protrusion is the center.
- Lines extending in the extending direction or the perpendicular direction are bent in the longitudinal direction of the gap through which the gas-liquid two-phase flow flows.
- reaction gas mixing is promoted by such a bent flow of fuel gas.
- the bent flow of condensed water suppresses flooding due to excessive condensed water in the downstream reaction gas channel groove.
- the reaction gas flow path resistance in the recess can be adjusted to make the reaction gas flow velocity uniform.
- the shape of the first protrusion and the second protrusion may be any shape as long as the effect of the present invention is exhibited.
- a substantially cylindrical shape a substantially triangular prism shape, and a substantially triangular shape. It has at least one kind of shape selected from square pillars.
- the surface of the separator corresponding to the diversion region crosses the channel groove group.
- a concave-convex pattern comprising a plurality of concave portions having a uniform width, a uniform pitch, and a uniform step, and a plurality of convex portions having a uniform width, a uniform pitch, and a uniform step, wherein the concave portion is the channel groove group.
- the convex portion may be a rib that supports the electrode portion in contact with the main surface, and the protrusion may be disposed on an extension line of the rib.
- a separator having such a concavo-convex pattern can be manufactured by die molding (compression molding), whereby the separator is constituted by a single plate and manufacturing cost can be improved (reduced).
- the electrode portion (gas diffusion electrode) hangs down equally in the inside of the flow channel groove (concave portion) arranged with the uniform pitch, the uniform width, and the uniform step.
- the distance may be narrower than the second distance between the protrusions.
- each of the protrusions is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape, it is preferable to adopt this configuration.
- the flow path resistance that can achieve uniform distribution of the in-plane velocity of the reaction gas flowing through the depression by such distance. Can be adjusted appropriately.
- the first distance when the first and second distances are assumed to be constant is crossed.
- the product of the flow velocity of the reaction gas flowing in the first distance and the first distance is the flow velocity of the reaction gas flowing across the second distance and the second distance when the first and second distances are assumed to be constant. It is preferable that the first and second distances are set so as to substantially coincide with the product of the distance.
- the outer end is preferably an outer end projecting piece projecting toward the recessed portion.
- the protrusions are spaced in the extending direction of the outer end”.
- a plurality of continuous rows are formed with one or more protrusions arranged at intervals in a direction perpendicular to the extending direction of the outer end, and a plurality of continuous steps are formed.
- the present invention also provides:
- An anode separator, a force sword separator, and a membrane electrode assembly disposed between the anode separator and the force sword separator
- the fuel cell separator of the present invention described above is incorporated as the anode separator and the cathode separator,
- the reaction gas supplied to the anode separator is a reducing agent gas, and the reaction gas supplied to the cathode separator is an oxidant gas;
- a fuel cell is provided.
- the reducing agent gas flowing in the shunt region of the anode separator takes into consideration the reducing agent gas consumption and suppresses flooding due to excessive condensed water in the flow channel groove. It diffuses satisfactorily in the electrode portion on the anode separator side in a state of being nearly equal throughout almost the entire area of the anode separator.
- the oxidant gas flowing through the shunt region of the power sword separator takes into account the oxidant gas consumption, and suppresses flooding due to excessive condensed water in the flow channel groove, so that It spreads well in the electrode part on the side of the force sword separator in a state that is almost even throughout the entire area. Then, the power generation operation by the fuel cell is performed in a state that is almost uniform in almost the entire area of the electrode portion.
- the uniformity of the reaction gas flow rate can be sufficiently improved (the variation in the reaction gas flow rate can be sufficiently reduced), and the flooding due to excessive condensed water in the flow channel can be appropriately and appropriately prevented.
- a fuel cell separator and a fuel cell that can be sufficiently suppressed are obtained.
- FIG. 1 is an oblique view schematically showing an exploded structure of a fuel cell according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 1 is an oblique view schematically showing an exploded structure of a fuel cell according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 2 is a view showing a surface of an anode separator.
- FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the anode separator taken along line III-III in FIG.
- FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the anode separator taken along line IV-IV in FIG.
- FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of region C in FIG.
- FIG. 6 is a view showing the surface of a force sword separator.
- FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the force sword separator taken along line VII-VII in FIG.
- FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the force sword separator along the line VIII-VIII in FIG.
- FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of region C in FIG.
- Fig. 10 is a plan view of the configuration of the peripheral portion of the flow path folding of the second embodiment.
- FIG. 11 is a plan view of the configuration of the peripheral portion of the flow path folding of the third embodiment.
- FIG. 12 is a plan view of the configuration of the periphery of the flow path folding of the fourth embodiment.
- FIG. 13 is a plan view of the configuration of the first embodiment analysis model.
- FIG. 14 is a plan view of the configuration of a comparative analysis model.
- FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the analysis result output on the computer based on the flow data of each element by the comparative analysis model.
- FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the analysis result output on the computer based on the flow data of each element according to the analysis model of the first embodiment.
- FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of an analysis result output on a computer based on the flow data of each element according to the analysis model of the fourth embodiment.
- FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the relationship between a fuel cell and a fuel cell according to a fourth embodiment.
- FIG. 19 is a plan view of the configuration of the periphery of the flow path folding of the first modification.
- FIG. 20 is a plan view of the configuration of the periphery of the flow path folding in the second modification.
- FIG. 21 is a plan view of the configuration of the peripheral portion of the flow path folding of Modification 3.
- FIG. 22 is a plan view of the configuration of the peripheral portion of the flow path folding of Modification 4.
- FIG. 23 is a plan view of the configuration of the periphery of the flow path folding of Modification 5. Explanation of symbols
- FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing the structure of the fuel cell according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
- a fuel cell stack 100 as shown in FIG. 1 is configured by stacking a plurality of rectangular fuel cells 10. Note that end plates 40 are attached to the outermost layers at both ends of the fuel cell stack 100, and the fuel cells 10 are fastening bolts that pass through the bolt holes 4 at the four corners of the fuel cell 10 from the both end plates 40. (Not shown) and a nut (not shown). Here, for example, 60 fuel cells 10 are stacked.
- the MEA 1 of the fuel cell 10 is configured by providing a pair of rectangular electrode portions 5 (catalyst layer and gas diffusion layer) at the center of both surfaces of the polymer electrolyte membrane 6.
- the fuel cell 10 has a pair of conductive plate-like separators 2 and 3, and a rectangular and annular gasket (not shown) is disposed on the peripheral edge 6 a of the MEA 1.
- the electrode portion 5 and the force are sandwiched between a pair of the conductive separator (specifically, the anode separator 2 and the force sword separator 3). Note that the configuration of the MEA 1 is known, and detailed description thereof is omitted here.
- a fuel gas flow region 101 through which (reducing agent gas) flows is formed.
- the fuel gas flow region 101 is divided into a plurality of belt-like fuel gas flow channel grooves 25 (flow channel groove groups; a group of flow channel groups) for distributing the fuel gas as close as possible and flowing it as uniformly as possible at a flow rate of V.
- the fuel gas shunt region assembly 21 and the plurality of fuel gas flow channel grooves 25 are joined together to form an island shape (here, a substantially cylindrical shape, more accurately) Is configured to include a fuel gas merging region assembly 22 having a plurality of substantially cylindrical projections 27 (see, for example, FIG. 2).
- the protrusion 27 of the present embodiment is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape as shown in FIG. 2, but the shape of the protrusion 27 is not limited to this, and may be a substantially cylindrical shape, a substantially triangular prism shape, or a substantially quadrangular prism shape. It may be formed in at least one form selected from among them. Further, even if the ring-shaped cross section perpendicular to the standing direction of the protrusion 27 has an elliptical cylinder as described in Modification 2 below, in addition to the substantially true cylindrical shape of this embodiment, such a protrusion is It shall be a substantially cylindrical shape in the specification.
- an oxidant gas flow region 102 through which the oxidizing agent gas flows is formed on the surface (front surface; the contact surface with the other electrode portion 5) of the force sword separator 3. Speak.
- This oxidant gas flow region 102 is distributed as close as possible to the oxidant gas as evenly as possible.
- An oxidant gas branch region assembly 31 having a plurality of strip-like oxidant gas flow channel grooves 35 (flow channel groove group; see, for example, FIG. 6) for flowing at close flow rates, and a plurality of oxidant gas flow channel grooves 35
- the oxidant gas confluence region has a plurality of island-shaped projections 37 (see, for example, FIG. 6) for accelerating the mixing of the oxidant gas and promoting the mixing of the oxidant gas. It is composed of a collection of 32.
- the projection 37 of the present embodiment is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape as shown in FIG. 6 as in the case of the projection 27.
- the shape of the projection 37 is not limited to this, and is substantially cylindrical or substantially triangular. And at least one form selected from a substantially quadrangular prism shape.
- the separators 2 and 3 and the peripheral edge 6a of the MEA 1 are provided with a pair of fuel gas fold holes 12A and 12B for supplying and discharging the fuel gas so as to pass through them. And a pair of oxidant gas fold holes 13A and 13B for supplying and discharging oxidant gas and cooling water fold holes 14A and 14B for supplying and discharging cooling water are provided.
- these holes 12A, 12B, 13A, 13B, 14A, 14B, etc. are connected in order, and thereby extend in the stacking direction (screw fastening direction) of the fuel cell stack 100.
- a pair of elliptic gas column fuel gas folds, a pair of elliptic gas cylinder oxidant gas folds, and a pair of elliptic cylinder coolant water folds are formed.
- the fuel gas flow region 101 extends in a serpentine shape and a band shape, and is formed so as to connect the fuel gas fold hole 12A and the fuel gas fold hole 12B.
- the partial force of the fuel gas flowing through the fuel gas manifold is guided from the fuel gas manifold fold hole 12A of each anode separator 2 to the fuel gas flow region 101.
- the fuel gas thus led is consumed as a reaction gas in the MEA 1 while flowing through the fuel gas flow region 101.
- the fuel gas not consumed here flows out from the fuel gas flow region 101 to the fuel gas fold hole 12B of each anode separator 2, flows through the fuel gas fold, and is discharged to the outside of the fuel cell stack 100.
- the oxidant gas flow region 102 extends in a serpentine shape and a band shape, It is formed so as to connect between the gas fold hole 13A and the oxidant gas fold 13B.
- part of the oxidant gas flowing through the oxidant gas fold is introduced from the oxidant gas fold hole 13A of each force sword separator 3 to the oxidant gas flow region 102.
- the oxidant gas thus led is consumed as a reaction gas in the MEA 1 while flowing through the oxidant gas flow region 102.
- the oxidant gas that has not been consumed here flows out from the oxidant gas flow region 102 to the oxidant gas fold hole 13B of each sword separator 3 and flows through the oxidant gas fold to flow into the fuel cell stack. 100 is discharged to the outside.
- the cooling water for maintaining the temperature of the fuel cell 10 at an appropriate temperature is a plurality of cooling waters provided on the back surface (opposite surface of the surface) of the force sword separator 3 through a pair of cooling water manifolds. Although flowing through a groove (not shown), a detailed description of the cooling water flow structure is omitted here.
- FIG. 2 is a view showing the surface of the anode separator.
- FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the anode separator along the line III-III in FIG. 2
- FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the anode separator along the line IV-IV in FIG. 2
- FIG. FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of area A in FIG.
- first side and second side are “right or left direction” and “left or right direction”, respectively, in the installation state of the fuel cell stack 100 with the anode separator 2 inserted. Is shown.
- the fuel gas flow region 101 is formed in a serpentine shape in a region 201 on the surface of the anode separator 2 in contact with the electrode portion 5 (gas diffusion electrode) of the MEA 1.
- the fuel gas shunt region assembly 21 and the fuel gas confluence region assembly 2 2 (see FIG. 1).
- the assembly 21 of the fuel gas shunt region has first, second, third, and fourth fuel gas shunt regions 21A in which the number of grooves of the fuel gas passage groove 25 is changed from the top to the bottom. To 21B, 21C, 21D It is divided.
- the fuel gas merging region assembly 22 includes a first fuel gas merging region 22A interposed between the first fuel gas diverting region 21A and the second fuel gas diverting region 21B, and the first fuel gas merging region 22A. 2, the second fuel gas merging region 22B (intermediate merging region) interposed between the fuel gas diverting region 21B and the third fuel gas diverting region 21C, and the third fuel gas dividing region 21C and the fourth fuel gas. There is a third fuel gas confluence region 22C interposed between the fuel gas diversion region 21D.
- the first fuel gas branch region 21 A includes three straight portions 602 of the serpentine fuel gas flow channel grooves 25, two folded portions 601, It is formed by combining.
- the number of flow channel grooves of the straight portion 602 and the number of flow channel grooves of the folded portion connected to the straight portion 602 are the same. ing.
- each of the second fuel gas branch region 21B and the third fuel gas branch region 21C has three straight portions (not shown with reference numerals) and two folded portions (shown with reference symbols). (Not shown). Also in the second fuel gas diversion region 21B, the number of grooves in the straight line portion and the number of groove portions in the folded portion connected to the straight portion are the same. ing. Also in this third fuel gas diversion region 21C, the number of grooves in the straight portion and the number of grooves in the folded portion connected to the straight portion are the same. .
- the fourth fuel gas branch region 21D is also formed by combining six straight portions (not shown with reference numerals) and five folded portions (not shown with reference characters). RU Also in the fourth fuel gas diversion region 21D, the number of grooves in the straight portion and the number of grooves in the folded portion connected to the straight portion are the same. Yes.
- the first fuel gas merging region 22A is formed in a folded portion interposed between the first fuel gas diverting region 21A and the second fuel gas diverting region 21B. Further, the second fuel gas merging region 22B is formed in a folded portion interposed between the second fuel gas branch region 21B and the third fuel gas branch region 21C. Further, the third fuel gas merging region 22C is formed in a folded portion interposed between the third fuel gas diverting region 21C and the fourth fuel gas diverting region 21D. [0105] In this way, by forming the shunt regions (first, second, third and fourth fuel gas shunt regions 21A, 21B, 21C, 21D) including the straight portion and the folded portion, As described above, a relatively long channel groove can be formed.
- the flow path length per one of each flow path groove included in the diversion area disposed between the two merge areas can be increased.
- a channel groove having such a long channel length has a large difference between the gas pressure exerted on the upstream side of the water droplet and the gas pressure exerted on the downstream side even when water droplets are generated in the channel groove. It is difficult to obtain excellent drainage.
- the straight portion 602 of the first fuel gas branch region 21A arranged on the most upstream side among the four branch regions is a fuel gas manifold hold hole 12A (gas inlet
- the straight part of the 4th diversion area 21D, which is located on the most downstream side of the 4 diversion areas, is connected to the fuel gas mark hold hole 12B (gas outlet hold).
- the merging region is not arranged immediately after the fuel gas marker hold hole 12A (gas inlet romor hold), and the fuel gas marker hold hole 12B (gas inlet marker hold) is not provided.
- a configuration that is not arranged immediately before is adopted.
- the merging region is not arranged immediately after the fuel gas hold hole 12A (gas inlet hold)
- the case ⁇ turns back immediately after the fuel gas hold hole 12A (gas inlet hold)
- the fourth shunt region 21D arranged on the most downstream side of the four shunt regions has a folded portion (not shown) in which the joining region is not formed, The folded portion may be connected to the fuel gas mark hold hole 12B (gas outlet mark hold).
- the configuration for preventing a part of the reaction gas from flowing into the gap can be simplified and the configuration can be easily formed.
- the fuel gas shunt region assembly 21 sandwiches each of the first, second, and third fuel gas confluence regions 22A, 22B, and 22C, and upstream of these confluence regions 22A, 22B, and 22C.
- the number of the fuel gas flow channel grooves 25 in the fuel gas diverting region assembly 21 located on the side is greater than the number of the fuel gas flow channel grooves 25 in the fuel gas diverting region assembly 21 located on the downstream side.
- the fuel gas is divided into first, second, third and fourth fuel gas branch regions 21A, 21B, 21C and 21D.
- the number of grooves of the fuel gas flow channel groove 25 of 21D is determined by taking into account the power generation consumption of the fuel gas flowing through the fuel gas flow channel groove 25, the first, second, third and fourth fuel gas branch regions 21A,
- the flow velocity force of the fuel gas flowing through each of the fuel gas flow channel grooves 25 of 21B, 21C, and 21D is determined to be a speed suitable for condensate discharge and to be in agreement with each other.
- the in-plane supply of fuel gas to the electrode unit 5 can be made uniform, and the drainage performance of the condensed water generated by fuel cell power generation using the fuel gas can be reduced by the amount of fuel gas. Even on the downstream side where there is little condensate and condensate tends to accumulate (near the fuel gas fold hole 12B), it is adequately secured and suitable.
- the second fuel gas diversion region 21B on the downstream side of the first fuel gas confluence region 22A has the first fuel gas confluence region 22A in between.
- the first fuel gas branch region 21A on the upstream side is configured to be folded back, but the fuel gas merging region may be provided at all the folded portions located at both ends.
- the anode separator 2 is a fuel in which a plurality of protrusions 27 are formed in the depression (described later) from the viewpoint of aligning the flow velocity of the fuel gas flowing through the fuel gas passage groove 25 to a speed suitable for condensate discharge.
- a folded portion that is a gas merging region force and a folded portion that is formed by a plurality of fuel gas flow channel grooves 25 bent in a U-shape are mixed.
- first fuel gas branch region 21A in the first fuel gas branch region 21A, six rows of fuel gas flow channel grooves 25 are provided on the first side from the fuel gas fold hole 12A on the second side. It is configured to reach the first fuel gas merging region 22A by folding back 180 ° at two points. It is.
- the five rows of fuel gas flow channel grooves 25 have a downstream force of the first fuel gas merge region 22A located at the folded portion on the first side.
- the second fuel gas confluence region 22B is formed so as to extend 180 ° and bend 180 ° at two locations.
- the four rows of fuel gas flow channel grooves 25 have the downstream side force of the second fuel gas merge region 22B located at the second-side folded portion.
- the second fuel gas confluence region 22C is formed so as to extend 180 ° and bend 180 ° at two locations.
- the three rows of fuel gas flow channel grooves 25 have the downstream side force of the third fuel gas merge region 22C located at the first folded portion.
- the fuel gas fold hole 12B is formed so as to extend in the direction of 180 ° and bend 180 ° at five locations.
- the cross section of the first fuel gas branch region 21A as shown in Fig. 3 has a plurality of (six in this example) having an equal pitch P1, an equal width Wl, W2, and an equal step D1.
- a concave / convex pattern consisting of a concave portion 25 and a plurality of (in this case, six) convex portions 26 is formed.
- the concave portion 25 corresponds to the fuel gas flow channel groove 25, and the convex portion 26 is an electrode portion.
- the electrode portion 5 force of the MEA 1 abuts against the convex portion 26 of the first fuel gas diversion region 21A, whereby the electrode portion 5 has an equal pitch P 1 and an equal width W2 and a uniform step D1 are supported evenly on the top surface of the convex portion 26 arranged.
- the electrode portion 5 hangs equally into the fuel gas flow channel groove 25 provided with the uniform pitch P1, the uniform width W1, and the uniform step D1.
- the anode separator 2 having such a concavo-convex pattern is formed by molding (compression molding).
- the anode separator 2 can be constituted by a single plate, and as a result, the productivity of the anode separator 2 can be improved.
- the second fuel gas merging region 22B includes a recess 28 (concave region) communicating with the fuel gas channel groove 25 (concave 25), and A plurality of island-shaped (substantially columnar) protrusions 27 are provided on the bottom surface of the recess 28.
- the first fuel gas confluence region 22A and the third fuel gas confluence region 22C are also provided with depressions (not shown with reference numerals) similar to the depressions 28. ) And the same protrusion as the protrusion 27 (not shown).
- the configurations of the first fuel gas merging region 22A and the third fuel gas merging region 22C are the same as those of the second fuel gas merging region 22B except for the number of channel grooves communicating with them. The description is omitted.
- the recess 28 is formed on the surface of the anode separator 2 so as to be positioned at the folded portion on the second side of the serpentine-like fuel gas flow region 101.
- the recess 28 is a substantially right angle having a bottom side 28a extending in the vertical direction when viewed from the surface of the anode separator 2 and a pair of oblique sides 28b, 28c having a sandwich angle of about 45 degrees between the bottom side 28a. It is formed in a triangular shape.
- the bottom side 28a constitutes the outer end (side edge) of the folded portion of the fuel gas flow region 101
- the upper oblique side 28b constitutes the boundary with the second fuel gas branch region 21B
- the lower oblique side 28c constitutes a boundary with the third fuel gas branch region 21C.
- Each fuel gas channel groove 25 in the second fuel gas shunt region 21B communicates with the recess 28 on the upper oblique side 28b
- each fuel gas channel groove 25 in the third fuel gas shunt region 21C is on the lower side. It communicates with the depression 28 at the hypotenuse 28c.
- the recess 28 is formed at the same depth as the fuel gas flow channel groove 25 here.
- the protrusion 27 is on an extension line of the convex portions 26 (except for the convex portion 26 at the upper end) of the second and third fuel gas sub-distribution channels 21B and 21C.
- a plurality (15 in this case) are formed with a uniform pitch P2.
- the pitch P2 is the same as the pitch PI of the convex portions 26 of the fuel gas branch regions 21B and 21C.
- all the protrusions 27 It has the same height (step) D2 and the same shape.
- the protrusions 27 are arranged so that their centers coincide with each other in the extending direction (vertical direction) of the bottom side 28a of the recess 28 and the direction perpendicular to the extending direction (the left-right direction on the extension line of the convex portion 26). They are arranged side by side in an orthogonal grid.
- the protrusion 27 functions as a gas flow baffle that promotes the mixing of the fuel gas and the MEA
- the fuel gas mixing between the plurality of fuel gas passage grooves 25, the fuel gas flow velocity uniformity, and the fuel gas pressure uniformity are as follows. The following effects can be obtained.
- the first, second, and third fuel gas merging regions 22A, 22B, and 22C are formed so as to have an oblique linear boundary with respect to the fuel gas shunting region.
- the gas flows well in the second fuel gas confluence region 22B as shown by the arrow in FIG. 5 in a nearly uniform state, and the downstream side fuel gas passage groove 25 (third fuel gas shunt region)
- the uniformity of the fuel gas flow rate can be maintained in a good state (with the variation in the gas flow rate more sufficiently reduced) without the fuel gas distribution to the 21C fuel gas flow channel groove 25) decreasing.
- the first, second, and third fuel gas confluence regions 22A, 22B, and 22C are projected into the above-mentioned arcuate shape, more specifically, by being partitioned into substantially triangular shapes.
- the fuel gas can be made to flow uniformly over substantially the entire area of the recess so that the gas can be properly delivered to the corner of the recess 28. For this reason, the uniformity of the fuel gas flow rate can be improved (the variation in the gas flow rate can be more sufficiently reduced) without reducing the fuel gas distribution to the fuel gas flow channel groove 25 on the downstream side of the recess 28. it can.
- the flow lengths of the five rows of the fuel gas flow channel grooves 25 in the second fuel gas branch region 21B connecting the first fuel gas merge region 22A and the second fuel gas merge region 22B are as follows. They are set equal to each other, so that the uniform flow velocity of the fuel gas flowing through these fuel gas flow channel grooves 25 is not hindered.
- the second fuel gas merge region 22B and the third fuel gas merge region 22C are connected.
- the lengths of the four rows of the fuel gas flow channel grooves 25 in the third fuel gas branch region 21C are set to be equal to each other, so that the flow velocity of the fuel gas flowing through the fuel gas flow channel grooves 25 is equalized. Is not inhibited.
- the plurality of protrusions 27 arranged in an island shape in the recess 28 flow into the fuel gas confluence region assembly 22 from each fuel gas flow channel groove 25 of the fuel gas shunt region assembly 21. The flow of the fuel gas is disturbed, so that the fuel gas mixing between the fuel gas flow channel grooves 25 can be promoted.
- each of the fuel gas flow dividing grooves 21A, 21B, 21C, and 21D functions as a relay section in which the number of the fuel gas flow path grooves 25 required for each of the fuel gas branch areas 21A, 21B, 21C, and 21D can be arbitrarily changed.
- Fuel gas merging areas 22A, 22B, and 22C can be finely adjusted, and as a result, the fuel gas flow rate is finely adjusted in consideration of the amount of fuel gas consumed when the fuel gas flows through the fuel gas channel groove 25. Can be done.
- FIG. 6 is a view showing the surface of the force sword separator.
- FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the force sword separator along the line VII-VII in FIG. 6, and FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the force sword separator along the line VIII-VIII in FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of region C in FIG.
- “up” and “down” indicate “upward” and “downward”, respectively, in the installed state of the fuel cell stack 100 incorporating the force sword separator 3.
- “first side” and “second side” respectively indicate “right or left direction”, “left or left” in the installed state of the fuel cell stack 100 in which the force sword separator 3 is inserted. "Right direction”.
- the oxidant gas flow region 102 is formed in a serpentine shape in the region 202 on the surface of the force sword separator 3 and in contact with the electrode part 5 of the MEA1.
- the oxidant gas branch region assembly 31 and the oxidant gas confluence region assembly 32 are configured.
- the assembly 31 of the oxidant gas branch region has the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth, in which the number of grooves of the oxidant gas flow channel grooves 35 is different from each other by force from top to bottom. It is divided into oxidant gas diversion areas 31A, 31B, 31C, 31D, and 31E.
- the oxidant gas confluence region assembly 32 includes a first oxidant gas confluence region 31A interposed between the first oxidant gas diversion region 31A and the second oxidant gas diversion region 31B. 32A and the second oxidant gas diversion region 31B and the third oxidant gas diversion region 31C and the second oxidant gas diversion region 32B (intermediate merge region) interposed between the third oxidant gas diversion region 31C and the third oxidant gas diversion region 31C.
- the third oxidant gas diversion region 32C (intermediate merge region) interposed between the oxidant gas diversion region 31C and the fourth oxidant gas diversion region 31D, and the fourth oxidant gas diversion region 31D and the fifth oxidant gas diversion region 31D
- the first oxidant gas branch region 31 A is formed from one straight portion 702 in each oxidant gas flow channel groove 25 in the form of serpentine.
- the third oxidant gas branch region 31C is also formed with one linear force.
- the fifth oxidizing gas splitting region 31E is also formed from one straight portion of each serpentine oxidizing gas channel groove 25.
- the second oxidant gas branch region 31B is formed by combining two straight portions 702 of each serpentine-like oxidant gas flow channel groove 25 and one folded portion 701. .
- the number of grooves in the flow path groove of the straight portion 702 and the number of grooves in the flow path groove of the folded portion connected to the straight portion 702 are the same. Has been.
- the fourth oxidant gas branch region 31D is also formed by combining two straight portions (not shown with reference numerals) and one folded portion (not shown with reference characters). ing. Also in the fourth oxidant gas branch region 31D, the number of grooves in the straight part and the number of grooves in the folded part connected to the straight part are the same. ing.
- the first oxidant gas merging region 32A is formed in a folded portion interposed between the first oxidant gas diversion region 31A and the second oxidant gas diversion region 31B.
- the second The second oxidant gas merging region 32B is formed in a folded portion interposed between the second oxidant gas diversion region 3IB and the third oxidant gas diversion region 31C.
- the third oxidant gas confluence region 32C is formed in a folded portion interposed between the third oxidant gas diversion region 31C and the fourth oxidant gas diversion region 31D.
- the fourth oxidant gas confluence region 32D is formed in a folded portion interposed between the fourth oxidant gas diversion region 31D and the fifth oxidant gas diversion region 31E.
- shunt regions second and fourth oxidant gas shunt regions 31B and 31D
- a channel groove can be formed. That is, it is possible to increase the channel length per one of each channel groove included in the branch region disposed between the two merge regions.
- a channel groove having such a long channel length has a large difference between the gas pressure exerted on the upstream side of the water droplet and the gas pressure exerted on the downstream side even if water droplets are generated in the channel groove. Excellent drainage can be obtained.
- the straight portion 702 of the first oxidizing agent gas diversion region 31A arranged on the most upstream side of the five diversion regions is an oxidant gas mark hold hole. It is connected to 13A (gas inlet mull hold), and the straight part force of the fifth diverting region 31E arranged at the most downstream side of the five diverting regions Oxidant gas marker hold hole 13B (gas inlet marker) Connected).
- the merging region is not arranged immediately after the oxidant gas merge hole 13A (gas inlet mould) and the oxidant gas merge hole 13B (gas inlet mould hold). If it is not placed immediately before), the configuration is adopted.
- the outer peripheral edge of the electrode portion 5 (gas diffusion electrode, force sword) of the MEA 1 and the annular shape disposed outside the MEA 1 are used. It is possible to easily reduce a part of the oxidant gas from flowing into a gap (not shown) formed between the inner peripheral edge of the gasket and prevent the oxidant gas from flowing into the gap.
- the gas seal configuration can be simplified, and the configuration can be easily formed.
- the confluence region is not arranged immediately after the oxidant gas hold hole 13A (gas inlet mall)
- the folded part is not placed immediately after ⁇ , the lowest of the five shunt areas
- the fifth shunt region 3 IE arranged on the flow side is formed with a confluence region and has a small fold-back portion (not shown), and the fold-back portion is an oxidant gas hold hole 13B (gas input Roma-hold).
- the configuration for preventing a part of the reaction gas from flowing into the gap can be simplified and the configuration can be easily formed.
- Such first, second, third, and fourth oxidant gas confluence regions 32A, 32B, 32C, and 32D are disposed at the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth locations.
- the number of grooves in the oxidant gas flow channel 35 of the oxidant gas flow region 31 A, 31B, 31C, 31D, 3 IE is determined by taking into account the power generation consumption of the oxidant gas flowing through the oxidant gas flow channel 35. 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th oxidant gas flow regions 31A, 31B, 31C, 31D, 3 Flow rate force of oxidant gas flowing through oxidant gas flow channel 35 of each IE Condensation
- the flow rate is suitable for water discharge and is determined to match each other.
- the in-plane supply of oxidant gas to the electrode unit 5 can be made uniform, and the drainage performance by the oxidant gas of the condensed water generated due to the fuel cell power generation is oxidized.
- the amount of agent gas is small and condensate is easy to collect, and it is suitable and suitable for the downstream side (near the oxidant gas fold hole 13B).
- the second oxidant gas diversion region 31B downstream of the first oxidant gas merge region 32A is the first oxidant gas merge region 32A.
- the first oxidant gas diverting region 31A on the upstream side is configured to be folded back, with the oxidant gas merging region provided at all the folded portions located at both ends. Not.
- the force sword separator 3 has a plurality of protrusions 37 in the recess (described later) from the viewpoint of aligning the flow speed of the oxidant gas flowing through the oxidant gas flow channel groove 35 to a speed suitable for condensate discharge.
- the folded portion formed of the oxidant gas merging region formed and the folded portion formed of a plurality of the oxidizing agent gas flow channel grooves 35 bent in a U-shape are mixed.
- the first oxidant gas branch region 31 A 11 rows of oxidant gas flow channel grooves 35 are formed on the second side oxidant gas fold hole 13A.
- the first oxidant gas merge region 32A extends from the first side to the first side.
- ten rows of the oxidant gas flow channel grooves 35 are located downstream of the first oxidant gas confluence region 32A located at the folded portion on the first side. The force extends to the second side and is folded back 180 ° at one point to reach the second oxidant gas confluence region 32B.
- the third oxidant gas branch region 31C nine rows of oxidant gas flow channel grooves 35 are located downstream of the second oxidant gas confluence region 32B located at the folded portion on the first side. The force extends to the second side and reaches the third oxidant gas confluence region 32C.
- the fourth oxidant gas branch region 31D eight rows of oxidant gas flow channel grooves 35 are located downstream of the third oxidant gas confluence region 32C located at the folded portion on the second side.
- the first oxidant gas merging region 32D is formed so as to extend from the first side to the first side and bend 180 ° at one point.
- oxidant gas branch region 31E seven rows of oxidant gas flow channel grooves 35 are located downstream of the third oxidant gas confluence region 32D located at the second side folded portion. The force extends to the second side and reaches the oxidant gas fold hole 13B.
- the cross section of the first oxidant gas branch region 31A as shown in FIG. 7 has a plurality (11 in this case) having an equal pitch P2, an equal width W3, W4, and an equal step D3.
- the concave / convex pattern is composed of a plurality of concave portions 35 and a plurality of (in this case, eleven) convex portions 36, and the concave portion 35 corresponds to the oxidant gas flow channel groove 35.
- the electrode portion 5 of the MEA 1 abuts on the convex portion 36 of the first oxidant gas diverting region 31A, whereby the electrode portion 5 is evenly distributed.
- a uniform pitch P3, a uniform width W4, and a uniform step D3 are supported evenly on the top surface of the convex portion 36 disposed.
- the electrode portion 5 hangs equally into the inside of the oxidant gas channel groove 35 provided with the uniform pitch P3, the uniform width W3, and the uniform step D3.
- the force sword separator 3 having such a concavo-convex pattern can be manufactured by die molding (compression molding), whereby the force sword separator 3 can be constituted by a single plate, and as a result, the force sword separator 3 Can improve productivity.
- the third oxidant gas confluence region 32C includes a recess 38 (concave region) communicating with the oxidant gas flow channel groove 35 (concave portion 35), and A plurality of island-like (substantially cylindrical) projections 37 are provided on the bottom surface of the depression 38.
- the first oxidant gas confluence region 32A, the second oxidant gas confluence region 32B, and the fourth oxidant gas confluence region 32D are also provided with the above-described depressions.
- a recess similar to 38 (not shown) is formed, and a projection (not shown) similar to the projection 37 is formed.
- the configurations of the first oxidant gas merging region 32A, the second oxidant gas merging region 32B, and the fourth oxidant gas merging region 32D are configurations other than the number of flow channel grooves communicating therewith. Is the same as the third oxidant gas confluence region 32C, and the description thereof is omitted.
- the depression 38 is formed on the surface of the force sword separator 3 so as to be located at the second folded portion of the serpentine oxidant gas flow region 102.
- the depression 38 has a bottom 38a extending in the vertical direction when viewed from the surface of the force sword separator 3, and a pair of oblique sides 38b, 38c having a sandwich angle of about 45 degrees between the bottom 38a. It is formed in a right triangle shape.
- the bottom side 38a constitutes the outer end (side edge) of the folded portion of the oxidant gas flow region 102, and the upper oblique side 38b constitutes a boundary with the third oxidant gas flow region 31C.
- the hypotenuse 38c forms a boundary with the fourth oxidant gas branch region 31D.
- Each oxidant gas flow path groove 35 in the third oxidant gas branch region 31C communicates with the recess 38 in the upper oblique side 38b, and each oxidant gas flow path groove in the fourth oxidant gas branch region 31D. 35 communicates with the recess 38 on the lower hypotenuse 38c.
- the recess 38 is formed at the same depth as the oxidant gas flow channel 35.
- the projection 37 is an extension of the convex portions 36 (except the convex portion 36 at the upper end) of the third and fourth oxidizing gas sub-distribution flow paths 31C and 31D.
- Duplicate with equal pitch P4 on the line Numbers (63 here) are formed.
- the pitch P4 is the same as the pitch P3 of the convex portions 36 of the oxidant gas branch regions 31C and 31D.
- all the protrusions 37 have the same height (step) D4 and the same shape.
- the protrusions 37 are arranged so that their centers coincide with each other in the extending direction (vertical direction) of the bottom 38a of the recess 38 and in the direction perpendicular to the extending direction (left and right direction on the extension line of the convex part 36). They are arranged side by side in an orthogonal grid.
- the projection 37 functions as a gas flow baffle piece that promotes mixing of the oxidant gas and also functions as a support portion (rib) of the electrode portion 5 of the ME A1.
- the first and second and fourth oxidant gas confluence regions 32A, 32B, and 32D have the same cross-sectional and plan view configurations as those described here (the shape of the recess 38 is Exactly similar), description of these configurations is omitted.
- the first, second, third, and fourth oxidant gas confluence regions 32A, 32B, 32C, and 32D are formed so as to have an oblique linear boundary with respect to the oxidant gas diversion region.
- the oxidant gas flows satisfactorily in the third oxidant gas merge region 32C as shown by the arrow in FIG. 35 (4th oxidant gas splitting region 31D oxidant gas flow path groove 35 of oxidant gas flow path 35)
- the oxidant gas distribution performance should be reduced. In a sufficiently reduced state).
- the second, third, and fourth oxidant gas confluence regions 32B, 32C, and 32D are partitioned into the shape of the above-described arcuate shape, more specifically, substantially triangular.
- the oxidizing agent gas can be made to flow uniformly over substantially the entire area of the depression 38 so that the gas can be properly delivered to the corner of the depression 38.
- the uniformity of the oxidant gas flow rate is improved without reducing the oxidant gas distribution property to the oxidant gas flow channel groove 35 on the downstream side of the recess 38 (the variation in the gas flow rate is more adequate). Can be reduced).
- the respective channel lengths of the additive gas channel grooves 35 are set to be equal to each other, so that the uniform flow rate of the oxidant gas flowing through the acid agent gas channel grooves 35 is not hindered.
- each of the oxidant gas flow channels 35 is set equal to each other so that the flow rate of the oxidant gas flowing through these oxidant gas flow channel grooves 35 is not hindered.
- an oxidant gas confluence region aggregate is formed from each oxidant gas flow channel groove 35 of the oxidant gas confluence region aggregate 31 by a plurality of projections 37 arranged in an island shape in the recess 38. The flow of the oxidant gas flowing into 32 is disturbed, thereby promoting the mixing of the oxidant gas between the oxidant gas flow channel grooves 35.
- the number of grooves of the oxidant gas flow channel grooves 35 required for each of the oxidant gas branch regions 31 A, 31B, 31C, 31D, and 31E is a relay section that can arbitrarily change the number of grooves.
- the oxidant gas merging regions 32A, 32B, 32C, and 32D that perform the above functions it is possible to adjust the oxidant gas when the oxidant gas flows through the oxidant gas channel groove 35. Fine adjustment of the oxidant gas flow rate can be performed in consideration of consumption.
- the electrode portion 5 in contact with the anode separator 2 is configured so that each of the fuel gas flow channel grooves 25 is uniformly formed at the upper end openings of the plurality of fuel gas flow channel grooves 25 (recesses 25) as shown in FIG. Being exposed to fuel gas flowing at a flow rate! / Speak.
- the electrode portion 5 in contact with the force sword separator 3 has a plurality of oxidant gas flow channel grooves 35 at the upper end openings of a plurality of oxidant gas flow channel grooves 35 (recess portions 35) as shown in FIG. Each is exposed to an oxidant gas flowing at a uniform flow rate.
- the inventors of the present invention have condensed water and reaction gas (hereinafter referred to as “flow channel folding peripheral portion” t) in the vicinity of the reaction gas confluence region of the separator. (Air and fuel gas)
- flow channel folding peripheral portion t
- Air and fuel gas When designing a gas-liquid two-phase flow, an optimized design for the periphery of the channel wrapping that enables appropriate suppression of flooding due to excessive condensate in the gas channel groove I think it is essential.
- the gas-liquid two-phase flow flowing from each gas flow channel groove into the assembly (recessed portion) of the confluence region goes from top to bottom
- the gas-liquid two-phase flow can be easily mixed by, for example, easily passing through the gap between the arranged protrusions 27 (lattice grooves) shown in Fig. 2 or the gap between the protrusion 27 and the bottom 28a.
- the present inventors are concerned.
- FIG. 10 is a plan view of the configuration of the peripheral portion of the flow path folding of this embodiment.
- the recess 48 communicating with the fuel gas flow channel groove 45 has a bottom 48a extending linearly in the vertical direction as the outer end of the flow channel folding periphery.
- a pair of hypotenuses 48b and 48c as boundaries with the upstream and downstream fuel gas passage grooves 45 are partitioned into a substantially triangular shape.
- a plurality of island-like (here, substantially cylindrical, more precisely, substantially cylindrical) protrusions 47 erected on the bottom surface of the recess 48 are so-called staggered on the extended glands of the protrusion. Arrange them so that they line up regularly. Are lined up.
- the plurality of protrusions 47 are connected at an equal pitch in the extending direction (vertical direction) of the base 48a, and at an equal pitch in a direction perpendicular to the extending direction of the base 48a (the horizontal direction). It is formed to be connected.
- a series of protrusions 47 in the vertical direction (including one case) is referred to as a “row”, and a series of protrusions 47 in the left-right direction (including a single case) is referred to as a “stage”.
- the plurality of protrusions 47 are formed in 8 rows (referred to as the 1st to 8th rows in order from the apex side of the recess 48) and 9 steps (referred to as the 1st to 9th steps in order from the top).
- Each row is composed of protrusions 47 constituting one stage.
- each stage is composed of protrusions 47 that constitute every other row. That is, between the adjacent rows, the positions of the protrusions 47 in the extending direction (vertical direction) of the rows are shifted from each other by a half pitch. Further, between the adjacent steps, the positions of the protrusions 47 in the extending direction (left-right direction) of the steps are shifted from each other by a half pitch.
- the protrusions 47 are arranged at a pitch twice that diameter (with a gap between the diameters), and in each row, the protrusions 47 are arranged at a pitch that is four times the diameter (its It is placed at a distance of 3 times the diameter.
- the line connecting the centers of the protrusions 47 in the adjacent rows or the centers of the protrusions 47 in the adjacent steps is the vertical direction along the bottom 48a and the extended line of the convex part 46. In the left-right direction, it extends so as to fold into a square shape.
- the line connecting the centers of the protrusions 47 of adjacent rows in the vertical direction has an obtuse angle ( ⁇ is about 127 ° shown in Fig. 10) multiple times.
- a line (see the dotted line in FIG. 10) that extends in a zigzag so as to bend and connects the centers of adjacent protrusions 47 in the left-right direction (see the dotted line in FIG. 10) has an acute angle ( ⁇ shown in FIG. °) Jig so that it bends
- the gas-liquid two-phase flow when the gas-liquid two-phase flow goes from the top to the bottom of the depression 48, the gas-liquid two-phase flow creates a gap between the projections 47.
- the gas-liquid two-phase flow appropriately hits the projection 47 multiple times and disturbs the flow, thereby causing flooding due to excessive condensed water in the fuel gas passage groove 45 on the downstream side of the recess 48. It is expected that it can be suppressed. This effect of suppressing flooding is supported by the calculation results of fluid simulation and the measurement results at the actual machine level described later. Yes.
- the staggered arrangement of the protrusions 47 in this specification means that each row extending in parallel in the vertical direction constitutes every other step.
- 47 is an array pattern of protrusions 47 (in other words, each step extending in parallel in the left-right direction is an array pattern of protrusions 47 formed of protrusions 47 constituting every other row), for example
- the vertical arrangement of the protrusions 47 the gas-liquid two-phase flow force that passes between the protrusions 47 of one stage downward is avoided without passing through the next stage without any disturbance. From this point of view, it refers to a pattern in which the array of protrusions 47 is arranged in a zigzag manner between adjacent rows so that the protrusion 47 can be applied to the next stage.
- the protrusions 47 between adjacent rows are shifted by half from the pitch between the protrusions 47 on the same step.
- the arrangement pattern is a typical example of the staggered arrangement of the protrusions 47, the staggered arrangement is not necessarily limited thereto.
- the spacing between adjacent rows of protrusions may be 1Z4 with a pitch between protrusions of the same step.
- FIG. 11 is a plan view of the configuration of the peripheral portion of the flow path folding of the present embodiment.
- the configuration of the separator other than the configuration of the peripheral portion of the flow path folding in this embodiment is the same as the configuration described in the first embodiment, and the description of the configuration common to both is omitted or outlined.
- the recess 58 that communicates with the fuel gas flow channel groove 55 includes a bottom 58a that extends in the vertical direction as the outer end of the flow channel folded periphery, and the upstream and downstream sides.
- a pair of oblique sides 58b and 58c serving as a boundary with the fuel gas flow channel groove 55 is partitioned into a substantially triangular shape.
- a plurality of island-like (in this case, substantially cylindrical, more precisely, substantially cylindrical) projections 57 erected on the bottom surface of the recess 58 are formed in the extending direction (vertical direction) of the base 58a and Orthogonal to the direction perpendicular to the extension direction (left and right direction on the extension line of the convex part 56) Arranged side by side in a grid.
- the bottom 58a of the recess 58 has a plurality of (four) projecting pieces 58d (outer end projecting pieces) projecting toward the indentation 58 side and linear shapes sandwiched between these projecting pieces 58d.
- the base 58e is partially curved so as to be formed in the middle thereof.
- the gas-liquid two-phase flow is applied to the protrusion 57 and the bottom 58a when the gas-liquid two-phase flow is directed downward from the depression 58.
- the gas-liquid two-phase flow properly hits the protrusion 58d several times and the flow is disturbed, and the fuel gas passage groove 55 on the downstream side of the depression 58 is thereby prevented. It is expected that flooding due to excessive condensate inside can be suppressed. Such an effect of suppressing flooding is supported by the calculation results of fluid simulation and the measurement results at the actual machine level which will be described later.
- FIG. 12 is a plan view of the configuration of the periphery of the flow path folding of the present embodiment.
- the configuration of the separator other than the configuration of the peripheral portion of the flow path folding in the present embodiment is the same as the configuration described in the first embodiment, and the description of the configuration common to both is omitted or outlined.
- both the staggered projection 67 formed on the bottom surface of the recess 68 and the protrusion 68d formed on the bottom 68a of the recess 68 are employed.
- the optimum design is made for the uniform dispersion of condensed water in the gas channel groove.
- the recess 68 communicating with the fuel gas flow channel groove 65 has a bottom 68a extending in the vertical direction as an outer end of the folded portion of the flow channel, and the upstream and downstream sides.
- a pair of oblique sides 68b and 68c as a boundary with the fuel gas flow channel groove 55 is partitioned into a substantially triangular shape.
- a plurality (24) of island-like (here, substantially cylindrical, more precisely, substantially cylindrical) protrusions 67 are arranged so as to be regularly arranged in a so-called staggered manner.
- the plurality of protrusions 67 are connected at an equal pitch in the extending direction (vertical direction) of the base 68a and at an equal pitch in a direction perpendicular to the extending direction of the base 68a (the horizontal direction). It is formed to be connected.
- a series of protrusions 67 in the vertical direction (including one case) is referred to as a “row”, and a series of protrusions 67 in the left-right direction (including a single case) is referred to as a “stage”.
- the plurality of protrusions 67 are formed in 8 rows (referred to as first to eighth rows in order from the apex side of the recessed portion 48) and 9 steps (referred to as first to ninth steps in order from the upper side).
- Each row is composed of protrusions 67 constituting one stage.
- each stage is composed of protrusions 67 that constitute every other row. That is, between adjacent rows, the positions of the protrusions 67 in the extending direction (vertical direction) of the rows are shifted from each other by a half pitch. Further, between the adjacent steps, the positions of the protrusions 67 in the extending direction (left-right direction) of the steps are shifted from each other by a half pitch.
- the protrusions 67 are arranged with a pitch twice that diameter (with a gap between the diameters), and in each row, the protrusions 67 have a pitch that is four times the diameter (the It is placed at a distance of 3 times the diameter.
- the line connecting the centers of the protrusions 67 of the adjacent rows or the centers of the protrusions 67 of the adjacent steps is the vertical direction along the bottom 68a and the extended line of the convex part 66. In the left-right direction, it extends so as to fold into a square shape.
- the line connecting the centers of the protrusions 67 of adjacent rows in the vertical direction has an obtuse angle ( ⁇ is about 127 ° shown in Fig. 12) over multiple times.
- a line (see the dotted line in FIG. 10) that extends in a zigzag so as to bend and connects the centers of adjacent projections 67 in the left-right direction (see the dotted line in FIG. 10) has an acute angle ( ⁇ shown in FIG. °) Jig so that it bends
- the bottom 68a of the recess 68 shown in FIG. 12 is composed of a plurality of (four) projecting pieces 68d (outer end projecting pieces) projecting toward the recess 68 and these projecting pieces 68d.
- a straight base 68 e sandwiched between the two is partially curved so as to be formed in the middle thereof.
- the projections 67 arranged in a staggered manner in this manner when the gas-liquid two-phase flow goes from the top to the bottom of the depression 68, the gas-liquid two-phase flow easily creates a gap between the projections 67.
- the gas-liquid two-phase flow properly hits the projection 67 several times and the flow is disturbed, thereby causing flooding due to excessive condensed water in the fuel gas passage groove 65 on the downstream side of the recess 68. It is expected that it can be suppressed.
- the protrusion 68d formed on the bottom 68a when the gas-liquid two-phase flow is directed downward from the depression 68, the gas-liquid two-phase flow is generated between the protrusion 67 and the bottom 68a.
- the gas-liquid two-phase flow properly hits the projecting piece 68d several times and the flow is turbulent, which causes the flow of the fuel gas flow path on the downstream side of the recess 68. It is expected that flooding due to excessive condensed water in the groove 65 can be suppressed. This effect of suppressing flooding is supported by the calculation results of fluid simulation and the measurement results at the actual machine level described later.
- one lowermost (9th) projection 67 having a substantially cylindrical shape is
- the tenth-stage convex portion 66 and the base portion 68e are disposed so as to be positioned between the convex portion 66 and the base portion 68e with a distance L2 between them.
- one protrusion 67 on the uppermost stage (first stage) protrudes from the protrusion 66 so as to have a distance L2 between the protrusion 66 on the second stage and the protrusion 68d. Placed between 68d
- the two protrusions 67 in the second step and the eighth step are separated from each other by a distance L2 from the protrusion 66 and the base 68e in the third step and the ninth step.
- the convex portion 66 and the base portion 68e are arranged so as to be spaced apart from each other by a distance L1, and are arranged side by side in the left-right direction.
- the three protrusions 67 in the third and seventh stages are separated from each other by a distance L2 from the protrusion 66 and the protrusion 68d in the fourth and eighth stages.
- the convex portion 66 and the projecting piece 68d are arranged at a distance L1 from each other and arranged side by side in the left-right direction.
- the four protrusions 67 in the fourth step and the sixth step are separated from the convex portions 66 and the base 68e in the fifth step and the seventh step by a distance L2.
- the convex portion 66 and the base portion 68e are arranged so as to be spaced apart from each other by a distance L1, and are arranged side by side in the left-right direction.
- the four protrusions 67 in the fifth stage are formed so that the distance 66 between the convex part 66 and the protruding piece 68d in the sixth stage is separated from the protruding part 66 and the protruding piece 68d. Between them, they are spaced apart from each other by a distance L1 and arranged side by side in the left-right direction.
- protrusion 67 does not exist between the uppermost (first-stage) convex portion 66 and the base portion 68e, and both are disposed to face each other with a distance L2.
- the flow rate of the reaction gas increases between the protrusion 67 and the protrusion 66, between the protrusion 67 and the protrusion 68d, and between the protrusion 66 and the protrusion 68d. It has been found by analysis simulation. For this reason, as shown in FIG. 12, it is narrower than the distance L1 separating the substantially cylindrical projections 67 from each other. As a design guideline for the specific distances Ll and L2, the flow velocity of the reaction gas passing across the distance L1 when the distance L1 and the distance L2 are assumed to be the same.
- the distance L1 and the distance L2 are such that the product of the distance L1 and the distance L2 are approximately equal to the product of the flow velocity of the reactant gas passing across the distance L2 and the distance L2, assuming that the distance LI and the distance L2 are the same. It is set.
- the inventors of the present invention modeled on the computer the periphery of the flow path fold that causes a gas-liquid two-phase flow consisting of condensed water and reaction gas, and the thermal fluid simulation technology described in detail below.
- the flooding suppression effect of the protrusions and the protruding pieces on the flow path folding periphery described in the first embodiment and the fourth embodiment was verified.
- this FLUENT uses a discretization method called a finite volume method, and divides the analysis target area into fine spaces made up of predetermined elements, and subdivides them.
- a general equation governing the flow of fluid is solved based on the balance of fluid exchanged between various elements, and iterative calculation is performed by a computer until the result converges.
- an analysis model (hereinafter referred to as the “first embodiment analysis model”) that employs protrusions 27 that are erected on the bottom surface of 28 and are aligned on the extended line of the convex portion 26, and a staggered arrangement as shown in FIG.
- An analysis model (hereinafter, referred to as “fourth embodiment analysis model”) employing the protrusion 68d of the protrusion 67 and the bottom 68a of the depression is referred to as the first embodiment analysis model shown in FIG.
- an analysis model (hereinafter referred to as “comparison analysis model” t) where the protrusion 27 formed on the bottom surface of the recess 28 is eliminated is modeled! /.
- a gas-liquid two-phase flow (for example, flow velocity: 2.34 m / s) with a mixing ratio of condensed water and reaction gas of 1: 1 is input as the inflow condition, and the surface tension (7.3 X 10 " 2 N / m) is input as the water property data, and the contact angle (eg 0.1 °) is input as the physical property or surface data of the condensed water and the separator!
- the fluid outflow conditions include pressure (for example, 927. 33 Pa) and pressure loss coefficient (for example,
- downstream groove is extended by 40 mm from the upstream side as an amount corresponding to the increase in downstream flow resistance.
- the wall surface is treated as non-slip with respect to the flow velocity of the gas-liquid two-phase flow.
- 15, 16, and 17 are diagrams showing examples of analysis results output on a computer based on the flow data of each element according to each analysis model.
- the condensed water delivered from the gas flow channel upstream of the recess. It was confirmed that the flow of water was sufficiently disturbed by these protrusions and protrusions, and the dispersion of condensed water in the gas flow channel groove on the downstream side of the depression was extremely good. For example, the condensate is flowing evenly distributed between all the gas flow channel grooves on the downstream side of the depression. Force is visualized by the simulation result shown in FIG.
- the inventors of the present invention described a fuel cell (hereinafter referred to as a “first embodiment fuel cell”) in which the separator described in the first embodiment is incorporated as an anode separator and a force-sword separator, and the fourth embodiment.
- a fuel cell incorporating a separator as an anode separator and a force sword separator (hereinafter referred to as a “fourth embodiment fuel cell”) is prepared, and the fuel cell is operated by operating the fuel cell. The change of the cell voltage standard value of the cell with respect to the rate (Uf) was measured.
- FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the relationship between the fuel cell and the fourth embodiment fuel cell.
- the fuel cell of the fourth embodiment is more effective in suppressing flooding than the fuel cell of the first embodiment. Because of the excellent results, the present inventors have inferred that there is a difference in cell voltage standard values between the two as shown in FIG.
- FIG. 10 an example of the arrangement of protrusions in the periphery of the flow path fold (indented portion) in which a plurality of protrusions 27 typified by FIG. 5 (first embodiment) are arranged in an orthogonal lattice shape (hereinafter referred to as “grid array protrusions”) (Fig. 10) and a projection arrangement example of the periphery of the flow path fold (indentation) arranged so that a plurality of projections 47 represented by Fig. 10 (second embodiment) are regularly arranged in a staggered manner (hereinafter referred to as " Abbreviated “staggered protrusions”).
- FIG. 19 is a plan view of the configuration of the periphery of the flow path folding in the first modification.
- the recess 78 that communicates with the fuel gas flow channel groove 75 has a bottom 78a that extends in the vertical direction as the outer end of the folded portion of the flow channel, and the upstream and downstream sides.
- a pair of oblique sides 78b and 78c as a boundary with the fuel gas flow channel groove 75 is partitioned into a substantially triangular shape.
- the plurality of island-shaped protrusions 77 erected on the bottom surface of the recess 78 are formed in the extending direction (vertical direction) of the base 78a and the direction perpendicular to the extending direction (left and right on the extension line of the convex part 76). Are arranged side by side in an orthogonal grid so that their centers coincide with each other.
- Such a protrusion 77 is formed in at least one form selected from a substantially cylindrical shape, a substantially triangular prism shape, and a substantially quadrangular prism shape.
- a total of ten second protrusions 77b are alternately arranged.
- the first protrusion 77a and the second protrusion 77b having different vertical and horizontal width dimensions so that the shapes of the protrusions 77 adjacent to each other in the vertical and horizontal directions are different from each other. And force are alternately arranged.
- the first protrusion 77a having a small vertical dimension and a horizontal dimension in the vertical direction and the second protrusion 77b having a large vertical dimension and a horizontal dimension in the horizontal direction are vertically and vertically
- a line connecting the center 301 between the first protrusion 77a and the second protrusion 77b in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction is zigzag in the longitudinal direction of the gap (lattice groove) through which the gas-liquid two-phase flow consisting of fuel gas and condensed water flows.
- the gas-liquid two-phase flow is When the gas-liquid two-phase flow flows through the gap in the left-right direction and the vertical direction, the flow of the gas-liquid two-phase flow is bent and disturbed, and it is suppressed that the gas-liquid two-phase flow easily passes through the gap.
- the fuel gas flow path resistance in the recess 78 is reduced.
- the gas flow rate can be adjusted to be uniform.
- FIG. 20 is a plan view of the configuration of the periphery of the flow path folding of the second modification.
- the recess 88 communicating with the fuel gas flow channel groove 85 has a bottom 88a extending in the vertical direction as the outer end of the flow channel folded peripheral portion, and the upstream and downstream sides.
- a pair of hypotenuses 88b and 88c as a boundary with the fuel gas passage groove 85 is partitioned into a substantially triangular shape.
- the plurality of island-shaped protrusions 87 erected on the bottom surface of the recess 88 are formed in the extending direction (vertical direction) of the base 88a and the direction perpendicular to the extending direction (left and right on the extension line of the convex part 86). Are arranged side by side in an orthogonal grid so that their centers coincide with each other.
- Such a protrusion 87 is formed in at least one form selected from a substantially cylindrical shape, a substantially triangular prism shape, and a substantially quadrangular prism shape.
- the projection 87 has a substantially cylindrical shape or a substantially quadrangular prism shape.
- a total of 14 first protrusions 87a and a width dimension in the left-right direction are larger than the first protrusions 87a.
- a total of ten second protrusions 87b formed in a substantially cylindrical shape here, an elliptical column shape
- the first protrusions 87a and the second protrusions 87b having different width dimensions in the left-right direction are alternately arranged so that the shapes of the protrusions 87 adjacent in the vertical and horizontal directions are different. ing.
- the first protrusion 87a having a small width dimension in the left-right direction and the second protrusion 87b having a large width dimension in the left-right direction (length of the major axis) are A line connecting the centers 302 between the first protrusions 87a and the second protrusions 87b in the vertical direction by arranging them alternately in the vertical direction (a dotted line connecting the centers 302 is illustrated in FIG. 20 as an example of such a line. ) Is zigzag in the longitudinal direction of the gap (lattice groove) through which the gas-liquid two-phase flow that also has fuel gas and condensing hydraulic power flows.
- the gas-liquid two-phase flow is When the gas-liquid two-phase flow flows through the gap in the direction, the flow of the gas-liquid two-phase flow is bent and disturbed, and it is suppressed that the gas-liquid two-phase flow easily passes through the gap.
- the fuel gas mixing is further promoted by such a bent flow of the fuel gas.
- the fuel gas flow path resistance in the recess 88 can be made uniform, and the fuel gas flow velocity can be made uniform. Can be adjusted.
- FIG. 21 is a plan view of the configuration of the periphery of the flow path folding of the third modification.
- the recess 98 communicated with the fuel gas flow channel groove 95 has a bottom 98a extending in the vertical direction as the outer end of the flow channel folded periphery, and the upstream and downstream sides.
- a pair of oblique sides 98b and 98c as a boundary with the fuel gas flow channel groove 95 is partitioned into a substantially triangular shape.
- the plurality of island-shaped protrusions 97 erected on the bottom surface of the recess 98 are formed in the extending direction (vertical direction) of the base 98a and the direction perpendicular to the extending direction (left and right on the extension line of the convex part 96). Direction) They are arranged side by side in an orthogonal grid so that their centers coincide.
- Such a protrusion 97 is formed in at least one form selected from a substantially cylindrical shape, a substantially triangular prism shape, and a substantially quadrangular prism shape.
- the projection 97 has a substantially cylindrical shape or a substantially quadrangular prism shape.
- a total of 14 first protrusions 97a, a base 401 having the same shape as the first protrusions 97a, and a partial force 402 protruding from the right side (the direction of the base 98a) are also generated on the side surface of the base 401.
- a total of ten second protrusions 97b which are formed asymmetrically in the same direction by increasing the width dimension in the left-right direction.
- the first protrusion 97a and the second protrusion 97b having different width dimensions in the left-right direction are alternately arranged so that the shapes of the protrusions 97 adjacent to each other in the vertical and horizontal directions are different. It has been.
- the first protrusions 97a having a small width dimension in the left-right direction and the second protrusions 97b having a large width dimension in the left-right direction are alternately arranged in the left-right direction and the vertical direction. Therefore, the line connecting the center 303 between the first protrusion 97a and the second protrusion 97b in the vertical direction (the dotted line connecting the center 303 as an example of such a line is illustrated in FIG.
- the fuel gas flow path resistance in the recess 98 can be made uniform, and the fuel gas flow velocity can be made uniform. Can be adjusted.
- FIG. 22 is a plan view of the configuration of the periphery of the flow path folding of the fourth modification.
- the depression 108 communicating with the fuel gas flow channel groove 105 includes the bottom 108a extending in the vertical direction as the outer end of the flow channel folding periphery and the fuel on the upstream and downstream sides.
- a pair of oblique sides 108b and 108c as a boundary with the gas flow channel groove 105 is partitioned into a substantially triangular shape.
- the plurality of island-shaped protrusions 107 erected on the bottom surface of the recess 108 are formed by extending the base 108a in the extending direction (vertical direction) and the direction perpendicular to the extending direction (the right and left on the extension line of the convex part 106). Are arranged side by side in an orthogonal grid so that their centers coincide with each other.
- the projection 107 is formed in at least one form selected from a substantially cylindrical shape, a substantially triangular prism shape, and a substantially quadrangular prism shape.
- the projection 107 is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape or a substantially rectangular prism shape.
- the three first protrusions 107a constituting the first row and the width dimensions in both the upward and downward directions and the left-right direction of the first protrusion 107a are increased to form a substantially cylindrical shape or a substantially quadrangular prism shape.
- the five second protrusions 107b constituting the second row and the width dimension in both the vertical direction and the left-right direction are made larger than the second protrusions 107b to form a substantially cylindrical shape or a substantially quadrangular prism shape.
- the seven third protrusions 107c formed in the third row and the width dimensions in both the vertical direction and the left-right direction are made larger than the third protrusions 107c to form a substantially cylindrical shape or a substantially quadrangular prism shape.
- the shape of the protrusion 107 becomes larger from the second stage to the eighth stage on the right (the convex part 106 side) to the left (the base 108a side).
- the first protrusion 107a, the second protrusion 107b, the third protrusion 107c, and the fourth protrusion 107d which have different vertical and horizontal width dimensions, are appropriately selected and arranged.
- a first protrusion 107a adjacent to the convex portion 106, a second protrusion 107b adjacent to the first protrusion 107a, and a second protrusion 107b adjacent to the second protrusion 107b are arranged side by side so as to be adjacent in this order.
- the protrusions 107 As the right force is directed to the left, the upward and downward directions are increased.
- the protrusions 107 that increase in width in the horizontal direction, the distance between the protrusions 107, the distance between the protrusions 107 and the bottom surface 108a, and the distance between the protrusions 107 and the protrusions 106 are adjusted according to the flow rate of the fuel gas. It can be changed appropriately.
- the in-plane velocity distribution of the gas-liquid two-phase flow that flows through the depression 108 can be appropriately made uniform by adjusting the fuel gas flow path resistance exhibited by the change in the distance.
- FIG. 23 is a plan view of the configuration of the periphery of the flow path folding in the fifth modification.
- the recess 118 that communicates with the fuel gas flow channel groove 115 has a bottom 118a that linearly extends in the vertical direction as the outer end of the flow path folding peripheral portion, and the upstream and downstream sides.
- a pair of oblique sides 118b and 118c as a boundary with the fuel gas flow channel groove 115 is partitioned into a substantially triangular shape.
- a plurality of substantially cylindrical or substantially quadrangular prism-shaped projections 117 erected on the bottom surface of the recess 118 are connected at an equal pitch in the extending direction (vertical direction) of the base 118a, and It is formed so as to be connected at a constant pitch in a direction (left-right direction) perpendicular to the extending direction.
- a series of protrusions 117 in the vertical direction (including a single case) is referred to as a “row”, and a series of protrusions 117 in the left-right direction (including a single case) is referred to as a “stage”.
- the plurality of protrusions 117 are formed in 8 rows (referred to as the first row to the 8th row in order of the apex side force of the depression 118) and 9 rows (referred to as the 1st step to the 9th row in order from the upper side). Yes.
- Each row is composed of protrusions 117 constituting every other stage.
- each stage is composed of protrusions 117 that constitute every other row.
- the line connecting the projections 117 of adjacent rows or the projections 117 of adjacent steps is It is arranged so as to be regularly arranged in a so-called zigzag so as to be folded in a square shape.
- a line connecting the centers of adjacent protrusions 117 in the vertical direction bends at an obtuse angle ( ⁇ of about 152 ° shown in FIG. 23) multiple times.
- the projections 117a of the even-numbered stages such as the four projections 117a of the second stage, the fourth stage, the sixth stage, and the eighth stage along the virtual line 501 shown in FIG.
- the fifth row to be formed and the third row, the fifth row, and the seventh row of three projections 117b adjacent to the virtual line 5001, are formed with odd-numbered projections 117b.
- Six rows are offset by approximately 1Z4 pitch P5 between the protrusions 117 on the same step.
- the protrusions 117a and the protrusions 117b are alternately arranged on the left and right sides with the above-mentioned approximately 1Z4 pitch, and on the upper and lower sides with the width of the recess 115. If the amount of deviation reaches half of the pitch P2 of the protrusions 117, the protrusion arrangement pattern of this modification will be the same type of pattern as the arrangement shown in FIG.
- the separator for a fuel cell according to the present invention can improve the uniform performance of the reaction gas flow rate and flooding due to excessive condensate.
- the separator can be applied to a polymer electrolyte fuel cell.
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Abstract
Description
Claims
Priority Applications (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
CA2617733A CA2617733C (en) | 2005-08-05 | 2006-08-04 | Serpentine fuel cell separator with protrusions and fuel cell with the same |
CN2006800292817A CN101248549B (zh) | 2005-08-05 | 2006-08-04 | 燃料电池用隔板和燃料电池 |
EP06782382.3A EP1919016B1 (en) | 2005-08-05 | 2006-08-04 | Separator for fuel cell and fuel cell |
KR1020087005383A KR101318470B1 (ko) | 2005-08-05 | 2006-08-04 | 연료 전지용 격리판 및 연료 전지 |
US11/997,950 US8278008B2 (en) | 2005-08-05 | 2006-08-04 | Serpentine fuel cell separator with protrusions and fuel cell including the same |
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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JP2005-228782 | 2005-08-05 | ||
JP2005228782 | 2005-08-05 | ||
JP2006000883 | 2006-01-05 | ||
JP2006-000883 | 2006-01-05 |
Publications (1)
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WO2007018156A1 true WO2007018156A1 (ja) | 2007-02-15 |
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Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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PCT/JP2006/315524 WO2007018156A1 (ja) | 2005-08-05 | 2006-08-04 | 燃料電池用セパレータ及び燃料電池 |
Country Status (6)
Country | Link |
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US (1) | US8278008B2 (ja) |
EP (1) | EP1919016B1 (ja) |
KR (1) | KR101318470B1 (ja) |
CN (1) | CN101248549B (ja) |
CA (1) | CA2617733C (ja) |
WO (1) | WO2007018156A1 (ja) |
Cited By (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO2009084183A1 (ja) | 2007-12-28 | 2009-07-09 | Panasonic Corporation | 燃料電池用セパレータ及びそれを備える燃料電池 |
US20120231373A1 (en) * | 2009-11-25 | 2012-09-13 | Hiroki Kusakabe | Fuel cell separator and fuel cell including same |
CN101669244B (zh) * | 2007-04-27 | 2013-09-04 | 丰田自动车株式会社 | 燃料电池用电池组及搭载燃料电池的车辆 |
JP2018037284A (ja) * | 2016-08-31 | 2018-03-08 | 株式会社Ihi | セパレータ、燃料電池及び再生型燃料電池システム |
Families Citing this family (6)
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KR101683992B1 (ko) | 2014-10-29 | 2016-12-07 | 현대자동차주식회사 | 연료전지 스택의 매니폴더 장치 |
JP6258839B2 (ja) | 2014-11-13 | 2018-01-10 | トヨタ自動車株式会社 | 燃料電池用セパレータ、燃料電池用集電板、燃料電池、および燃料電池スタック |
CN107799787A (zh) * | 2017-09-28 | 2018-03-13 | 黑泰(上海)材料科技有限公司 | 燃料电池用流场板 |
CN112242535B (zh) * | 2019-07-16 | 2022-03-22 | 未势能源科技有限公司 | 可用于燃料电池的双极板结构、燃料电池及燃料电池车辆 |
CN117174982B (zh) * | 2023-11-02 | 2024-01-23 | 四川荣创新能动力系统有限公司 | 一种燃料电池的空气出入堆分配结构及其出入堆总成 |
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
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KR20080034192A (ko) | 2008-04-18 |
CN101248549A (zh) | 2008-08-20 |
CN101248549B (zh) | 2011-04-06 |
KR101318470B1 (ko) | 2013-10-16 |
US8278008B2 (en) | 2012-10-02 |
US20090162727A1 (en) | 2009-06-25 |
EP1919016A1 (en) | 2008-05-07 |
EP1919016A4 (en) | 2012-03-28 |
CA2617733A1 (en) | 2007-02-15 |
EP1919016B1 (en) | 2013-04-17 |
CA2617733C (en) | 2013-05-07 |
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