WO2007046249A1

WO2007046249A1 - Polyelectrolyte fuel cell

Info

Publication number: WO2007046249A1
Application number: PCT/JP2006/320049
Authority: WO
Inventors: Shinsuke Takeguchi; Hiroki Kusakabe; Yoichiro Tsuji
Original assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
Priority date: 2005-10-18
Filing date: 2006-10-06
Publication date: 2007-04-26

Abstract

A polyelectrolyte fuel cell which is formed with a supply-side heat transfer medium manifold (94I) and a discharge-side heat transfer medium manifold (94E) that extend through cells in the laminated direction of the cells, and is formed with heat transfer medium flow paths (26, 36) at joint potions between adjacent cells so that their starting ends are connected with the supply-side heat transfer medium manifold (94I) and their terminating ends are connected with the discharge-side heat transfer medium manifold (94E), wherein tubular members (41I, 41E) consisting of a heat-insulating material are disposed in at least either one heat transfer medium manifold of the supply-side heat transfer medium manifold (94I) and the discharge-side heat transfer medium manifold (94E) so as to extend in the laminated direction, the heat transfer medium manifold is formed by being partitioned into an in-tubular member region and an out-tubular member region (95I, 95E), and a penetration portion (42) for allowing the in-tubular member region and an out-tubular member region (95I, 95E) to communicate is formed continuously in the laminated direction in the tubular members (41I, 41E).

Description

Specification

Polymer electrolyte fuel cell

Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a polymer electrolyte fuel cell. In particular, the present invention relates to a polymer electrolyte fuel cell having a so-called inner-moulded stack as a main body in which a hole for heat transfer medium is formed at the peripheral edge of an anode separator and a force-saw separator.

Background art

[0002] A polymer electrolyte fuel cell (hereinafter referred to as PEFC!) Has MEA (Membrane-Electro de-Assembly) and each main surface of MEA contains hydrogen. This is a device that generates electric power and heat by exposing the anode gas and a power sword gas containing oxygen such as air to electrochemical reaction between the anode gas and the power sword gas.

[0003] A PEFC generally has a stack formed by stacking cells.

The cell is composed of a MEA sandwiched between a pair of flat separators, specifically an anode separator and a force sword separator. The MEA is composed of a polymer electrolyte membrane and a pair of electrodes formed by laminating both sides of the polymer electrolyte membrane, and electrode surfaces are formed on both main surfaces of the MEA. The separator is made of a conductive material such as resin or metal containing conductive carbon, and is in contact with the electrode surface of the MEA and takes part of the electric circuit.

[0004] Here, since the electrochemical reaction in the cell is an exothermic reaction, it is necessary to cool the cell so that the inner surface of the cell reaches the catalyst activation temperature during the PEFC operation. Also, during PEFC start-up operation, it is necessary to preheat the cell so that the inner surface of the cell is at the catalyst activation temperature. In addition, appropriate temperature control is required during PEFC operation. That is, when the cell is not sufficiently cooled, the temperature of the MEA rises and water is evaporated from the polymer electrolyte membrane. As a result, it is known that the deterioration of the polymer electrolyte membrane is promoted and the durability of the cell stack is lowered, or the electric resistance of the polymer electrolyte membrane is increased and the electric output of the cell is lowered. Yes. On the other hand, if the cell stack is cooled more than necessary, the reaction gas flowing in the gas flow path As a result, water in the liquid state is condensed, and the amount of liquid water contained in the reaction gas increases. Liquid water adheres as droplets to the gas flow path of the separator plate due to surface tension. When the amount of droplets is large, water adhering to the gas flow path blocks the gas flow path, obstructing the gas flow and causing flooding. As a result, it is known that the performance area of the PEFC is lowered, for example, the reaction area of the electrode decreases and the electric output becomes unstable.

[0005] Furthermore, by effectively utilizing the heat of electrochemical reaction generated in the cell outside, that is, by configuring a combined heat and power system centering on PEFC, the thermal efficiency of PEFC can be improved.

[0006] For these reasons, generally, a heat transfer medium flow path is formed between the stacked cells of the PEFC stack, the heat transfer medium flows between the stacked cells, and the heat transfer medium flows. Heat medium power It is configured to circulate inside and outside the S stack. And the separator has good heat conductivity! The material is used.

[0007] Here, generally, a so-called internal hold type stack is used as a stack of PEFC. The internal hold type stack is formed by integrating a pair of heat transfer medium supply manifolds that communicate with both ends of the heat transfer medium flow path between the cells. In other words, a pair of heat transfer medium hold-holes penetrating in the thickness direction of each separator is formed at the peripheral portions of the anode separator and the force sword separator, and heat transfer is performed on the outer surfaces of the anode separator and the force sword separator. A flow path groove of the medium flow path is formed, and the heat transfer medium flow path groove is formed so as to connect the edge of the pair of heat transfer medium manifold holes. Alternatively, a flat plate-shaped heat transfer member having a pair of heat transfer medium manifold holes and having a built-in heat transfer medium flow path connecting the pair of heat transfer medium manifold hold holes is arranged between the cells. It is installed. In the stack assembly state, these merge holes are connected to form a pair of heat transfer medium markers extending in the cell stacking direction. With this configuration, the heat transfer medium supplied to the stack from the end of one heat transfer medium manifold (supply-side heat transfer medium manifold) passes through the supply-side heat transfer medium manifold. Then, it branches into each heat transfer medium flow path and circulates toward the other heat transfer medium manifold (discharge-side heat transfer medium merge).

[0008] In the case of such an internal hold-type stack, the inside of the cell in the cell stacking direction As a result, the temperature distribution across the stack became difficult, making it difficult to manage the temperature appropriately throughout the stack, leading to a decline in PEFC performance.

[0009] As an examination intended to solve the above-described problem of temperature non-uniformity of the stack in the cell stacking direction, for example, focusing on the temperature non-uniformity between the end and the center of the stack, By adopting a configuration that reduces the thermal emissivity at both ends of the stack, such as a plate insulating plate, it is intended to suppress temperature drop at both ends of the stack and improve temperature non-uniformity in the cell stacking direction. A fuel cell has been proposed. (For example, see Patent Document 1).

[0010] Further, Patent Document 2 proposes a PEFC in which a heat insulator is disposed on the inner periphery of a heat transfer medium holder.

[0011] On the other hand, Patent Document 3 proposes a PEFC in which a cylindrical penetrating material is disposed in a hold. This makes it possible to supply fluid equally to each cell.

Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 8-130028

Patent Document 2: JP-A-2005-209526

Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2002-252021

Disclosure of the invention

Problems to be solved by the invention

[0012] By the way, PEFC has different effects of outside air temperature depending on the installation form, and there is a possibility that the temperature distribution of PEFC will be different. For example, PEFCs mounted on mobile devices such as automobiles may not have sufficient insulation around the PEFC, and the degree of influence of outside air temperature may vary depending on the location or direction of PEFC installation. In other words, even if PEFCs have the same design, the temperature distribution of the PEFC will differ depending on the installation form. Need arises. In this case, changes in the PEFC structure will lead to a cost increase in PEFC production.

[0013] It should be noted that the PEFC of Patent Document 2 has a structure in which the end of the heat transfer medium flow channel is located inside the heat insulator, and therefore, the flow distribution of the heat transfer medium in the cell stacking direction cannot be adjusted. I can't. Further, in Patent Document 2, [Claim 6], paragraphs [0023] and [Fig. 4] show the cross section of the heat insulator. PEFCs have been proposed that reduce the volume of the heat transfer medium with a small flow rate. However, the flow rate of the heat transfer medium can be made uniform by changing the cross-sectional area of the heat insulator, but the flow distribution of the heat transfer medium cannot be adjusted more than that. That is, if the cross-sectional area of the heat insulator is changed, the pressure and flow velocity in the heat insulator can be changed, but it is not easy to adjust the flow distribution of the heat transfer medium flowing into the heat transfer medium flow path. . It is difficult to obtain a desired heat transfer medium flow rate distribution in the cell stacking direction.

[0014] The PEFC of Patent Document 3 has a structure in which the flow of fluid is made uniform by a gap between the cylindrical penetrating material and the peripheral wall of the cylinder. Heat exchange with the wall surface cannot be suppressed. Also, it is not intended to obtain the desired flow rate distribution of the heat transfer medium in the cell stacking direction.

[0015] The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, suppresses heat exchange between the heat transfer medium and the heat transfer medium medium wall surface, and heat transfer in the cell stacking direction. An object of the present invention is to provide a polymer electrolyte fuel cell in which the flow rate distribution of the medium can be easily adjusted.

Means for solving the problem

[0016] The PEFC of the first aspect of the present invention that solves the above problem has a cell laminate in which cells are formed by sandwiching MEA between a pair of plate-like separators, and the cell laminate has A supply-side heat transfer medium manifold and a discharge-side heat transfer medium manifold extending through the cell in the stacking direction are formed, and a starting end is connected to the supply-side heat transfer medium manifold, and a termination is A polymer electrolyte fuel cell in which a heat transfer medium flow path is formed at a junction between adjacent cells connected to the discharge-side heat transfer medium manifold,

At least one of the supply-side heat transfer medium manifold and the discharge-side heat transfer medium manifold is disposed so as to extend in the stacking direction in any one of the heat transfer medium manifolds. Having a cylindrical member made of a functional material,

The heat transfer medium manifold is divided into a cylindrical member inner region and a cylindrical member outer region, and the cylindrical member has a penetrating portion that communicates the cylindrical member inner region and the cylindrical member outer region. It is continuously formed in the stacking direction.

[0017] With this configuration, it is possible to suppress heat exchange between at least one of the wall surfaces of the heat transfer medium, the supply side heat transfer medium manifold, and the discharge side heat transfer medium manifold. In addition, in the supply side heat transfer medium manifold, the region force in the tubular member also flows out to the region outside the tube member, and in the discharge side heat transfer medium manifold, the region force outside the cylinder member in the side tube member Since the flow distribution in the stacking direction of at least one of the heat transfer media flowing into the region can be adjusted by the number or size of the through portions, the heat transfer medium in the stacking direction of the cells can be obtained by replacing the cylindrical member. The flow distribution of the can be easily adjusted.

[0018] In the PEFC of the second aspect of the present invention, it is preferable that the size of the through portion increases as the cylindrical member moves away from a supply end to which the heat transfer medium is supplied. If comprised in this way, the nonuniformity of the flow volume of the heat-transfer medium in the lamination direction of a cell can be suppressed.

[0019] In the PEFC of the third aspect of the present invention, it is preferable that the size of the through portion is reduced as the cylindrical member moves away from a supply end to which the heat transfer medium is supplied. With this configuration, the heat transfer medium flow rate on the supply end side of the stack can be increased. In other words, it is suitable in the PEFC installation mode in which the supply end side is further cooled by the outside air.

[0020] In the PEFC of the fourth aspect of the present invention, it is preferable that the size of the through portion increases as the cylindrical member moves away from the central portion in the stacking direction. With this configuration, the heat transfer medium flow rate at both ends of the stack can be increased. In other words, it is suitable for the installation form of PEFC in which both ends of the stack are further cooled by the outside air.

In the PEFC of the fifth aspect of the present invention, it is preferable that the size of the through portion is reduced as the cylindrical member moves away from the central portion in the stacking direction. With this configuration, the heat transfer medium flow rate at the center of the stack can be increased. In other words, it is suitable for PEFC installations where the heat insulation around the stack is sufficient and the heat of the stack is not released to the surroundings.

[0022] In the PEFC of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the through-portion is a plurality of through-holes formed continuously in the stacking direction, and the distribution density of the through-holes and the size of the through-holes At least one of them should change continuously. With this configuration, the through hole is sparse. The heat transfer medium flowing out from the cylindrical member inner region to the outer region of the cylindrical member and the discharge side heat transfer medium manifold in the supply side heat transfer medium manifold depending on the density or the size, and the side cylindrical member from the outer region of the cylindrical member The flow rate distribution in the stacking direction of at least one cell of the heat transfer medium flowing into the inner region can be adjusted.

[0023] In the PEFC of the seventh aspect of the present invention, the through portion may be a crack extending in the stacking direction, and the size of the crack may be continuously changed in the stacking direction. With this configuration, depending on the shape of the crack, the heat transfer medium flowing from the cylindrical member inner region to the cylindrical member outer region in the supply side heat transfer medium manifold and the discharge side heat transfer medium manifold from the cylindrical member outer region in the supply side heat transfer medium manifold. It is possible to adjust the flow rate distribution in the stacking direction of at least V of the heat transfer medium flowing into the side cylinder member inner region, or any of the cells.

[0024] In the PEFC of the eighth aspect of the present invention, the cylindrical member may be engaged with a wall surface of the heat transfer medium holder. With this configuration, the cylindrical member can be prevented from rotating or moving in the heat transfer medium manifold due to some cause such as stress due to the heat transfer medium. It is possible to suppress the deviation of the positional relationship between the beginning or end of the road and the penetrating part.

[0025] In the ninth aspect of the present invention, the heat insulating material is preferably resin, glass, rubber, or ceramics. If comprised in this way, it can be set as the cylinder member excellent in electrical insulation, heat insulation, and environmental resistance. Here, the cylindrical member includes a cylindrical member in which the surface of a metal cylindrical body is coated with resin, glass, rubber or ceramics.

The above object, other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings.

The invention's effect

[0027] As described above, the PEFC of the present invention suppresses heat exchange between the heat transfer medium and the heat transfer medium holder wall surface, and easily adjusts the flow distribution of the heat transfer medium in the cell stacking direction. If you can!

Brief Description of Drawings

FIG. 1 is a partially exploded perspective view showing a laminated structure of PEFC cells according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing a laminated structure between cells of the stack of FIG.

FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view showing a structure of an end portion of the stack of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a supply side cylinder member or a discharge side cylinder member.

[FIG. 5] FIG. 5 is a view as seen from the direction of the arrow V in FIG.

6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the supply-side cylinder member or the discharge-side cylinder member of Modification 1. 7] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the supply-side cylinder member or the discharge-side cylinder member of Modification 2. 8] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the supply-side cylinder member or the discharge-side cylinder member of Modification 3. 9] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the supply-side cylinder member or the discharge-side cylinder member of Modification 4. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the supply-side cylinder member or the discharge-side cylinder member of Modification 5.圆 11] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a supply-side cylinder member or a discharge-side cylinder member of Modification 6.圆 12] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the supply-side cylinder member or the discharge-side cylinder member of Modification 7.圆 13] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a supply-side cylinder member or a discharge-side cylinder member of Modification 9.

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view on the outer surface side of the anode separator of the stack of Modification 9.

[15] FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing the marker and the cylindrical member used in the simulation analysis.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing the results of simulation analysis.

Explanation of symbols

5 Membrane electrode assembly (MEA)

6 Gasket

7 MEA material

9A anode separator

9C, 9CE force sword separator

10 cells

121, 221, 321 Supply side anode gas hold hole

12E, 22E, 32E Discharge side anode gas hold hole

131, 231, 331 Supply side force sword gas hold hole

13E, 23E, 33E Discharge side sword gas hold hole

141, 241, 341 Supply side heat transfer medium manifold hole E, 24E, 34E Exhaust side heat transfer medium hold hole, 25, 35, 55, 65, 75 Bonore

30 MEA contact surface

Anode gas channel groove

Force sword gas flow channel

36 Heat transfer medium flow channel

1 Supply side cylinder

E Discharge side tube member

Hole

Crack

Open end

Recess

51 collector plate

61 insulation plate

71 End plate

1, 621, 721 Supply side anode gas flow hole E, 62E, 72E Discharge side anode gas flow hole 1, 631, 731 Supply side force sword gas flow hole E, 63E, 73E Discharge side force sword gas flow hole 1, 641, 741 Supply Side heat transfer medium flow hole

E, 64E, 74E Discharge side heat transfer medium flow hole Terminal

Bonoleto

Washer

Nut

nozzle

1 Supply side anode gas manifold hold

E Discharge side anode gas hold 931 Supply side sword gas hold

93E Discharge side sword gas hold

941 Supply side heat transfer medium manifold

94E Exhaust heat transfer medium manifold

951 Space

95E space

96 Convex

99 cell laminate

100 stacks

201 Manihold

202 Tube member

202A crack

203 Heat transfer medium channel hole

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0031] (First embodiment)

First, the simulation analysis that became the background for the first embodiment will be described. In the simulation analysis, we analyzed how the temperature distribution of the heat transfer medium changes depending on the presence or absence of a heat insulating cylinder in the manifold.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing the hold and the cylindrical member used for the simulation analysis.

As shown in FIG. 15, the analysis mold 201 has a total length of 280 mm, and 27 heat transfer medium flow passage holes 203 for analysis are formed at equal intervals in the extending direction. . A cylindrical member 202 for analysis is disposed along the wall surface of the manifold 201. The cylindrical member 202 has a crack 202A having a width of 8 mm extending in the extending direction. The crack 202A is formed facing the heat transfer medium flow path hole 203. The wall thickness of the cylindrical member 202 is 1. Omm.

[0034] As a setting condition for the analysis, the heat transfer medium was water, and the heat transfer medium was supplied at a flow rate of 2. llZmin toward one end of the malle 201 and the other end. It is assumed that the temperature of the heat transfer medium is 60 ° C, the wall temperature of the malleable 201 is 63 ° C, and the material of the cylindrical member 202 is epoxy resin. The thermal conductivity was 0.19 WZmK. Under these conditions, the temperature T of the heat transfer medium flowing out from the heat transfer medium passage hole 203 at a distance X from the heat transfer medium supply end was analyzed. As a comparative example, analysis was also performed under the same conditions with the analysis cylinder member 202 removed.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing the results of simulation analysis. As shown in FIG. 16, the temperature without the cylindrical member 202 was higher than that with the cylindrical member 202. That is, it has been found that heat exchange between the heat transfer medium in the holder 201 and the wall surface of the holder 201 is suppressed.

[0036] In addition, it was confirmed that the temperature increases with increasing distance from the heat transfer medium supply end. However, it was found that the temperature deviation is suppressed more than when the cylindrical member 202 is not provided. Further, it has been considered that the temperature deviation of the heat transfer medium in the direction of stretching the mold 201 can be further suppressed depending on the size of the crack 202A which is the penetrating portion.

FIG. 1 is a partially exploded perspective view showing a laminated structure of PEFC cells according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 1, the PEFC main body includes a cell laminate 99 in which 100 rectangular flat-plate cells 10 are laminated to form a rectangular parallelepiped shape.

[0039] Further, the cell 10 is configured by sandwiching the MEA member 7 between a pair of flat plate-like anode separator 9A and cathode separator 9C (both are collectively referred to as a separator).

[0040] Supply side anode gas marker hold holes 121, 221 are formed at the peripheral portions of the separators 9A and 9C and the MEA member 7 to form the supply side anode gas marker hold 921 connected to the cell stack 99, respectively. 321 and exhaust side anode gas marker holes 92E forming the exhaust side anode gas marker 92E are drilled so as to penetrate the main surface. Similarly, supply-side force sword gas hold holes 131, 231 and 331 that form supply-side force sword gas hold 931 and discharge-side force sword gas hold 93E that are connected to each other in cell stack 99 are formed. Discharge side force sword gas hold hole 13E, 23E, 33E forces are drilled through the main surface. Further, similarly, in each of the cell laminates 99, supply-side heat transfer medium marker holes 141, 241, 341, which form supply-side heat transfer medium marker 941, and Exhaust side heat transfer medium marker holes 14E, 24E, 34E forming the discharge side heat transfer medium marker 94E are drilled so as to penetrate through their main surfaces.

[0041] The MEA member 7 is configured by sandwiching a polymer electrolyte membrane extending around the periphery of the MEA 5 between a pair of fluororubber gaskets 6. Therefore, MEA 5 is exposed on both sides of the central opening of gasket 6. Also, it penetrates through the gasket 6, supply side anode gas holder hole 121, discharge side anode gas marker hold hole 12 E, supply side force sword gas hold hole 131, discharge side force sword gas hold hole 13 E, supply side heat transfer medium The mulch hole 141 and the discharge side heat transfer medium mer hold hole 14E are formed.

[0042] MEA 5 is mainly composed of a polymer electrolyte membrane composed of an ion exchange membrane that selectively permeates hydrogen ions, and a carbon powder carrying a platinum group metal catalyst formed so as to sandwich the polymer electrolyte membrane. A pair of anode side catalyst layers and force sword side catalyst layers, and a pair of anode side gas diffusion layers and force sword side gas diffusion layers disposed on the outer surfaces of the pair of catalyst layers. . These catalyst layer and gas diffusion layer constitute an electrode. That is, the MEA 5 is composed of a polymer electrolyte membrane and a pair of electrodes, an anode electrode and a force sword electrode, which are laminated at the center of both main surfaces thereof. An electrode surface is formed on the surface.

Here, as the polymer electrolyte membrane, a commercially available product of perfluorosulfonic acid (Nafionl 12 (registered trademark) membrane manufactured by DuPont) is used.

[0044] The catalyst layer is produced as follows. A catalyst body (50 wt% is Pt) is prepared by supporting platinum on Ketjen Black (Ketjen Black EC, Ketjen Black International Co., Ltd., particle size 30 nm), which is carbon powder. Then, 66 parts by mass of this catalyst body was mixed with 33 parts by mass (polymer dry mass) of perfluorocarbon sulfonic acid ionomer (5 mass ⁰ / oNafion dispersion manufactured by Aldrich, USA). The resulting mixture is formed into a catalyst layer having a thickness of about 10-20 / ζ πι.

[0045] Further, the gas diffusion layer has a porous structure so as to have both air permeability and electronic conductivity. For example, the gas diffusion layer is produced as follows. The base material is a carbon woven fabric having a diameter of 20 to 70 μm of 80% or more of the pores. For example, GF-20-E manufactured by Nippon Carbon Co., Ltd. can be used as the base material. Next, a pure water / surfactant mixed solution Prepare a PTFE dispersion by dispersing polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). The substrate is immersed in this PTFE dispersion. The base material soaked in the dispersion is passed through a far-infrared drying oven and baked at 300 ° C for 60 minutes. The density of the water-repellent resin (PT FE) on the surface of the substrate after firing is about 1. OmgZcm ² . Next, carbon black is dispersed in a solution in which pure water and a surfactant are mixed to prepare a carbon black dispersion. Add PTFE and water to this carbon black dispersion and knead for about 3 hours to prepare the coating material for the coating layer. The coating material for the coat layer is applied to the base material after baking as described above using a coating machine. The coated substrate is baked at 300 ° C for 2 hours using a hot air dryer to form a gas diffusion layer. The density of the water-repellent resin (PTFE) contained in this gas diffusion layer is about 0.8 mg / cm ² . As the surfactant, those commercially available under the trade name Triton X-100 can be used. In addition, carbon black can be dispersed in the solution by using a planetary mixer for about 3 hours.

[0046] The gas diffusion layer and catalyst layer obtained as described above can be joined to both surfaces of the central portion of the polymer electrolyte membrane by hot pressing to produce MEA5.

[0047] Anode separator 9A and force sword separator 9C (hereinafter, both are collectively referred to as a separator) are made of a conductive material. Here, each of the separators 9A and 9C is a graphite plate impregnated with phenol resin, and has a flat plate shape of 150 mm square and 3 mm thickness. On the inner surface of the anode separator 9A, a flat MEA contact surface 20 is formed at a position where the MEA member 7 contacts the MEA 5. The MEA contact surface 20 is formed with a step on the inner surface of the anode separator 9A so as to contact one main surface of the MEA 5 when the MEA member 7 and the anode separator 9A are joined. Similarly, in the force sword separator 9C, a planar MEA contact surface 30 is formed on the inner surface of the force sword separator 9C at a position in contact with the other main surface of the MEA 5. The MEA contact surface 30 is formed with a step on the inner surface of the force sword separator 9C so as to contact the other main surface of the MEA 5 when the MEA member 7 and the force sword separator 9C are joined. Accordingly, in the cell 10, the anode separator 9A and the force sword separator 9C are joined to the MEA 5 with the MEA 5 sandwiched from the front and back, and the separators 9A and 9C are made of a conductive material. The generated electrical energy can be taken out via separators 9A and 9C.

[0048] Also, an anode gas flow channel 21 is formed on the inner surface of the anode separator 9A so as to connect the supply-side anode gas marker hold hole 221 and the discharge-side anode gas marker hold hole 22E. The anode gas channel groove 21 is formed over substantially the entire MEA contact surface 20. Here, the anode gas flow path groove 21 has a single groove force having a width of 2. Omm and a depth of 1. Omm.

Similarly, a force sword gas passage groove 31 is formed on the inner surface of the force sword separator 9C so as to connect between the supply side force sword gas hold hole 331 and the discharge side force sword gas hold hole 33E. ing. The force sword gas flow channel 31 is formed over substantially the entire MEA contact surface 30. Here, the force sword gas passage groove 31 has three grooves having a width of 2. Omm and a depth of 1. Om in parallel.

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing a stacked structure between cells of the stack of FIG.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 2, heat transfer is performed on the outer surface of the anode separator 9A so as to connect the supply-side heat transfer medium manifold hole 241 and the discharge-side heat transfer medium mall hold hole 24E. A medium flow path groove (heat transfer medium flow path) 26 is formed. The heat transfer medium flow channel groove 26 is formed so as to meander around the entire back surface of the MEA contact surface 20. Similarly, the outer surface of the force sword separator 9C is connected to the heat transfer medium flow channel groove (by connecting the supply side heat transfer medium manifold hole 341 and the discharge side heat transfer medium manifold hole 34E). A heat transfer medium flow path) 36 is formed. The heat transfer medium flow path groove 36 is formed so as to meander the entire back surface of the MEA contact surface 30. In the cell laminate 99, the heat transfer medium flow channel 26 and the heat transfer medium flow channel 36 are formed to be joined. That is, the flow path shapes of the heat transfer medium flow channel 26 and the heat transfer medium flow channel 36 are formed so as to be plane-symmetric with each other. As a result, the heat transfer medium flow paths 26 and 36 are adjacent to each other so that the start end is connected to the supply-side heat transfer medium manifold 941 and the end is connected to the discharge-side heat transfer medium manifold 94E. It is formed at the junction between cells 10.

[0052] Here, the heat transfer medium flow channel grooves 26, 36 are configured by two parallel grooves having a width of 2. Omm and a depth of 1. Omm. [0053] The anode gas flow channel 21, the force sword gas flow channel 31, and the heat transfer medium flow channel 26, 36 are each composed of a straight portion extending in the horizontal direction and a turn portion connecting the adjacent straight portions. However, the number of parallel grooves and the number of turn portions are not limited to each other, and can be set as appropriate without departing from the effects of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view showing the structure of the end portion of the stack of FIG.

The stack 100 is configured by arranging a pair of end members on the outermost layers at both ends of the cell stack 99 in which the cells 10 are stacked. That is, a current collector plate, an insulating plate, and an end plate having the same shape as the cell 10 are laminated on the outermost layers at both ends of the cell 10. The power collector plate, insulation plate, and end plate are formed with 4 holes and 55, 65, 75 force is formed! In FIG. 3, only one end where the current collector plate 50, the insulating plate 60, and the end plate 70 are disposed is shown.

[0056] Here, the stack 100 constitutes the main body of the PEFC. Although not shown, the stack 100 is connected to an anode gas and power sword gas supply and discharge system, an electrical output system, and a heat transfer medium circulation system including a heat transfer medium cooling system or an exhaust heat utilization system. A fuel cell system is configured.

[0057] The current collector plate is made of a conductive material such as copper metal, and terminals 55 are formed respectively. And one current collector plate 50 is formed with a through hole penetrating the main surface. Specifically, the force sword separator 9CE that contacts the current collector plate 50, that is, the force sword separator 9CE constituting one end face of the stacked cells 10 communicates with the supply side heat transfer medium marker hole 3 41. Supply side heat transfer medium flow hole 541, discharge side heat transfer medium circulation hole 54E communicating with discharge side heat transfer medium manifold hole 34E, supply side anode gas circulation hole 521 communicating with supply side anode gas manifold hold hole 321, To the discharge side anode gas flow hole 52E communicating with the discharge side anode gas marker hold hole 32E, the supply side force sword gas flow hole 531 communicating with the supply side force sword gas hold hole 331, and the discharge side force sword gas hold hole 33E A discharge-side force sword gas circulation hole 53E that is in communication is formed.

[0058] The insulating plate and the end plate also have an electrically insulating material force. One insulating plate 60 has a supply-side anode gas circulation hole 621 and a discharge-side anode gas circulation hole 62E communicating with the circulation holes 521, 52E, 531, 53E, 541, 54E formed in the current collector plate 50, respectively. Supply side force A sword gas flow hole 631, a discharge side force sword gas flow hole 63E, a supply side heat transfer medium flow hole 641 and a discharge side heat transfer medium flow hole 64E are formed. One end plate 70 is formed on the insulating plate 60. Supply side anode gas flow hole 721, discharge side anode gas flow hole 72E, supply side force sword gas flow hole 731, discharge side force sword gas flow hole 73E A supply-side heat transfer medium flow hole 741 and a discharge-side heat transfer medium flow hole 74E are formed. The end holes 70 on the outer side of the end plate 70 are respectively fitted with nose and nore 83 forces ^ in the flow holes 721, 72E, 731, 73E, 741, 74E. The nozzle 83 is a connection member with external piping. Although not shown, the other current collecting plate, insulating plate, and end plate have the same configuration as the current collecting plate 50, insulating plate 60, and end plate 70 except that these flow holes are not formed. Thus, in the stack 100, anode gas, power sword gas, and heat transfer medium are respectively supplied to the supply side circulation holes 521, 621, 721, 531, 631, 731, 541, 641, 741 and the supply side manifold. After holding 921, 931, 941 and diverting to the channel groove 21, 31, 26, 36 between supply side hold 921, 931, 941 and cell 10 or cell 10, outlet side manifold 92E, 93E and 94E join together to form a flow path from the discharge side hold 92E, 93E, 94E to the discharge side circulation holes 52E, 62E, 72E, 53E, 63E, 73E, 54E, 64E, 74E.

[0059] The pair of end members are fastened by the fastening member. Here, the bolt 80 1S is bored through 11, 25, 35, 55, 65, 75 and penetrates both ends of the stack 100. A washer 81 and a nut 82 are attached to both ends of the bolt 80, and a pair of end plates 70 and 71 are fastened by a bolt 80, a washer 81 and a nut 82. Here, it is fastened with a force of lOkgf / cm ² per separator area.

[0060] Note that the heat transfer medium flow channel 36 is not formed on the outer surface of the force sword separator 9CE constituting one end face of the stacked cells 10. Further, although not shown, the heat transfer medium flow channel 36 is not formed on the outer surface of the anode separator constituting the other end face.

[0061] Here, the structure of the supply-side heat transfer medium holder 941 and the discharge-side heat transfer medium holder 94E (hereinafter, both are collectively referred to as the heat transfer medium holder), which is a feature of the present invention, is described. Detailed description.

As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the supply side heat transfer medium manifold 941 has a supply side cylindrical member ( (Cylinder) 411 and discharge-side heat transfer medium manifold 94E are respectively inserted with discharge-side cylinder members (cylinders) 41E (hereinafter, both are collectively referred to as cylinder members as appropriate).

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the supply side cylinder member or the discharge side cylinder member. In the figure, the arrow 50 indicates the direction in which the current collector plate 50 exists. The same applies to FIGS. 6 to 13 below.

[0064] The cylindrical members 411 and 41E are cylindrical members having shapes or sizes that fit into the heat transfer medium holders 941 and 94E, respectively, and at least one end is a non-covered end portion 44. It has a length equivalent to the layer length. The cylindrical members 411 and 41E have shapes that are fitted into the heat transfer medium holders 941 and 94E. Here, it is a flat cylindrical member having a thickness of 1. Omm with rounded corners, and is made of epoxy resin. Although not shown, the other ends of the cylindrical members 411 and 41E may be covered or uncovered. If it is not covered, the manufacturing cost of the cylindrical members 411 and 41E can be saved, and if it is covered, the heat transfer medium hold 941 and 94E between the current collector plate and the cylindrical members 4 II and 41E at the other end It is possible to prevent the heat transfer medium from flowing out to the heat sink, or to suppress unnecessary heat exchange between the current collector plate and the heat transfer medium.

[0065] It is effective to use a material that is chemically stable and has lower thermal conductivity for the cylindrical members 411 and 41E. For example, resin or glass, rubber or ceramics can be used. In addition, any material that can ensure sufficient heat insulation and electrical insulation may be used. For example, it is possible to use a metal cylinder whose surface is covered with resin, glass, rubber or ceramics.

[0066] More specifically, as the resin, for example, polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), poly vinylidene, polyether imide, polyether ether ketone, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyamide imide, polyimide, polyamide, At least one selected from the group consisting of polybenzoimidazole, polyethylene and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) can be used. When PTFE is used, it is preferable to use a high-purity polyimide that can use My power as a filler for reinforcement. As the polyethylene, ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene is preferred. Here, the thermal conductivity WZ (m′K) of each material is 10 to 150 of the resin-containing carbon that is preferably used as the material of the separators 9A and 9C, while the epoxy ίMA 0.19, PPSi 0.08 to 0.29, Polyetheroleimide, ίMA, 0.07, Ρ Thermal conductivity WZ (m · K) of ΕΤίma 0.24, polyimide ίma 0.10 to 0, 18, polyethylene 0.33, PTFEO.25, which is 1/10 of the thermal conductivity of the separator It becomes the following!

[0067] Examples of rubbers include nitrile rubber (NBR), hydrogenated hydrogen-tolyl rubber (HNBR), fluorine rubber (FKM), ethylene propylene rubber (EPDM), butinole rubber (IIR), chloroprene rubber (CR), chloro At least one selected from the group consisting of sulfone polyethylene (CSM) can be used. These thermal conductivities WZ (m'K) are 0.25 for NBR, 0.36 for EPDM, 0.13 for IIRi, 0.19 for CRi, 0.11 for CSMi, and 0.11 for CSMi. The number of rates is less than one-tenth.

[0068] In addition, a material suitable for the cylindrical members 411 and 41E can be selected based on the thermal conductivity. In other words, the heat transfer medium is heated by the wall surface of the supply-side heat transfer medium manifold 941 during the operation of the stack 100. Therefore, if the thickness of the cylindrical member 4 II is insufficient, the temperature rise of the heat medium will eventually increase. Similarly, the heat transfer medium is cooled by the wall surface of the discharge side heat transfer medium manifold 94E during the operation of the stack 100. Therefore, if the thickness of the tubular member 41E is insufficient, the temperature drop width of the heat medium will increase as a result. Therefore, depending on the thermal conductivity of the material, the temperature difference between the inner and outer surfaces of the cylindrical members 411 and 41E during the operation is greater than the temperature difference when the cylindrical members 411 and 41E are not provided. The thickness of members 411 and 41E can be calculated. For example, in the stack 100 of this embodiment, the thermal conductivity 15 WZm'K of the resin-containing carbon that is the material of the separators 9A and 9C, and the shortest distance 20 mm between the supply side heat transfer medium hold hole 141 and the MEA 5 is 20 mm. Under the conditions, the temperature difference between the MEA 5 and the MEA 5 during the operation is about 1 ° C. between the MEA 5 and the exhaust side heat transfer medium holder 94E when the cylindrical members 411 and 41E are not provided. On the other hand, when the cylindrical members 411 and 41E made of epoxy resin having a thermal conductivity of 0.19 WZm'K are provided, the temperature differential force between the cylindrical members 411 and 41E and the MEA 5 is more than Sl ° C. Therefore, the thickness of 0.25mm or more is calculated by using Fourier's law.

[0069] From the above, from the viewpoint of more reliably obtaining the operational effects of the present invention, it is preferable that the material of the cylindrical members 411 and 41E has a thermal conductivity of 5% or less of the thermal conductivity of the material of the separators 9A and 9C. is there [0070] In addition, a plurality of holes (penetrating portions) 42 are formed side by side in the extending direction of the cylindrical members 411 and 41E on the peripheral walls of the cylindrical members 411 and 41E. Here, the holes 42 are formed at equal intervals, corresponding to the number of junctions between adjacent separators 10, that is, 99, and the size is 1.5 mm in width and 3. Om in length.

As shown in FIG. 3, the cylindrical members 411 and 41E are arranged such that the non-cover end portion 44 is located on the current collector plate 50 side. The non-cover end portion 44 only needs to be close to the current collector plate 50. Therefore, even if both are in contact, a gap may be formed between them.

FIG. 5 is an arrow view as seen from the direction V in FIG.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 5, the cylindrical members 411 and 41E have spaces (with respect to the heat transfer medium manifolds 941 and 94E, respectively, such that the non-covered end portion 44 is positioned on the current collector plate 50 side. Cylinder member outer region) 95 I and 95E are formed and inserted. That is, the cylindrical members 411 and 41E are arranged to extend in the stacking direction of the cells 10 in a part of the heat transfer medium molds 941 and 94E. Further, the heat transfer medium manifolds 941 and 94E are configured to be divided into areas inside the cylindrical members 411 and 41E and areas 951 and 95E outside the cylinder members.

[0074] Further, the heat transfer medium holders 941 and 94E have a flat cross section in the extending direction, the long diameter is longer than the cylindrical members 411 and 41E, and the short diameter is the cylindrical member 411, like the cylindrical members 411 and 41E. 41E is long enough to be inserted. Here, a clearance may be provided between the short diameter of the cylindrical members 4 II and 41 E and the short diameter of the heat transfer medium molds 941 and 94 E. The heat transfer medium holders 941 and 94E are formed by stacking dozens of separators 9A and 9C. Therefore, the heat transfer medium manifold holds due to the dimensional tolerance of the separators 9A and 9C and the positional deviation during stacking. The wall surfaces of 941 and 94E often have irregularities. Therefore, if there is a clearance between the cylindrical members 411 and 41E and the wall surfaces of the heat transfer medium holders 941 and 94E to avoid these effects, the cylindrical members 411 and 94E are provided in the heat transfer medium holders 941 and 94E. 41E can be inserted smoothly.

[0075] Further, the start end and the end of the heat transfer medium flow channel groove 26 are either in the major axis direction on the hole walls of the supply side heat transfer medium manifold hole 241 and the discharge side heat transfer medium manifold hole 24E. (Fig. 5 shows the positions on both sides). The cylindrical members 411 and 41E are portions where the start end and the end of the heat transfer medium flow channel 26 are not formed (in FIG. ) In contact with the heat transfer medium manifolds 941 and 94E, and the holes 42 are arranged so as to face the start and end of the heat transfer medium flow channel 26. As a result, spaces 951 and 95E are formed between the start and end of the heat transfer medium flow channel grooves 26 and 36 and the holes 42 of the cylindrical members 411 and 41E. That is, the inner regions of the tubular members 411 and 41E, the spaces 951 and 95E, and the heat transfer medium flow channel grooves 26 and 36 can be communicated with each other.

[0076] Here, on the wall surfaces of the heat transfer medium holders 941 and 94E, the start ends or end points of the heat transfer medium flow channel grooves 26 and 36 having the number of junctions between the adjacent separators 10 are arranged in parallel at equal intervals. Is formed. The holes 42 of the cylindrical members 411 and 41E are formed at positions close to the start ends or the end ends of the heat transfer medium flow channel grooves 26 and 36, respectively. As a result, the moving distance of the heat transfer medium between the hole 42 and the heat transfer medium flow channel grooves 26 and 36 can be minimized, so that heat exchange between the separators 9A and 9C and the heat transfer medium can be achieved. It can be suppressed more.

Next, the operation of the stack 100 configured as described above will be described.

As shown in FIG. 3, an external pipe is connected to the nozzle 83, and anode gas, power sword gas, and a heat transfer medium are supplied to the stack 100.

[0079] The anode gas is supplied from the outside to the supply-side anode gas holder 921 through the nozzle 83 and the supply-side anode gas circulation holes 721, 621, 521. Similarly, the force sword gas is also supplied to the supply side force sword gas hold 931 via the nozzle 83 and the supply side force sword gas circulation holes 731, 631, 531. The heat transfer medium is supplied into the supply side cylindrical member 4 II via the external force nozzle 83 and the supply side heat transfer medium flow holes 741, 641, 541. Here, water is used as the heat transfer medium. However, the heat transfer medium is not limited to water as long as it has excellent chemical stability, fluidity and heat transfer characteristics. For example, silicon oil may be used. Here, the heat transfer medium is supplied to the stack 100 at a flow rate of 4 liters Z at a temperature of 70 ° C. Also, hydrogen gas is used for the anode gas and air is used for the power sword gas. The anode gas and power sword gas are each moistened to a dew point of 70 ° C and supplied to the stack 100 at a temperature of 70 ° C. In addition, the anode gas has an anode gas utilization rate, that is, the proportion of hydrogen supplied to the electrochemical reaction in the supplied hydrogen is 70%, and the power sword gas has a power sword gas utilization rate, that is, the oxygen to be supplied in the electrochemical reaction. Each was supplied to the stack 100 at a flow rate such that the proportion of supplied oxygen was 40%. It is.

[0080] As shown in FIG. 1, the force sword gas in the supply-side force sword gas manifold 931 branches to the force sword gas flow path 31 of the cathode separator 9C, and flows through the cell 10, so that excess cathode gas and The reaction product flows out to the discharge side force sword gas hold 93E. Similarly, the anode gas in the supply side anode gas holder 921 branches to the anode gas flow path 21 of the anode separator 9A and flows through the cell 10, and the surplus anode gas is sent to the discharge side anode gas holder 92E. And leaked.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 5, the heat transfer medium in the supply-side cylindrical member 411 passes through the hole 42 and flows into the space 951, and each heat transfer between the space 951 and the neighboring cells 10 is performed. It flows separately into the medium flow channel grooves 26 and 36, cools the outer surfaces of the separators 9A and 9C, in other words, is heated by the separators 9A and 9C, and flows out into the space 95E. As a result, the heat transfer medium flows through the supply side cylindrical member 411 without directly contacting the wall surface of the supply side heat transfer medium holder 941, and flows out of the hole 42 of the supply side cylindrical member 411. The heat medium flows into the nearby heat transfer medium channel grooves 26 and 36. As a result, heating to the heat transfer medium from the wall surface of the supply-side heat transfer medium holder 941 is suppressed by the supply-side cylindrical member 411, so that the heat transfer medium flow paths 26 and 36 in the stacking direction of the cells 10 The temperature change of the inflowing heat transfer medium can be suppressed.

[0082] The heat transfer medium in the space 95E flows into the discharge side cylinder member 41E from the hole 42 of the discharge side cylinder member 41E.

As shown in FIG. 3, the anode gas in the discharge-side anode gas manifold 92E is discharged to the outside via the discharge-side anode gas circulation holes 52E, 62E, 72E and the nozzle 83. Similarly, the power sword gas in the discharge side force sword gas hold 93E is discharged to the outside through the discharge side force sword gas circulation holes 53E, 63E, 73E and the nozzle 83. The heat transfer medium in the discharge side tubular member 41E is discharged to the outside through the discharge side heat transfer medium circulation holes 54E, 64E, 74E, and the nozzle 83. As a result, since the heat radiation of the heat transfer medium to the outside due to the wall force of the discharge side heat transfer medium holder 94E is suppressed by the discharge side cylindrical member 41E, the heat transfer medium flow path in the stacking direction of the cells 10 The temperature change of the heat transfer medium flowing out from 26 and 36 can be suppressed. [0084] The heat transfer medium discharged to the outside is cooled by exchanging heat with an external heat transfer medium using a heat exchanger (not shown), and then supplied again to the supply side cylindrical member 4 of the supply side heat transfer medium holder 941. Supplied in II.

[0085] The above operation is continued while the temperature of the stack (temperature distribution) is in a thermally steady state (for example 24) while generating the power generation output (for example, the power generation output having a current density of 0.3 AZcm ² ). If continued, the temperature in the vicinity of the other current collector plate of the supply side heat transfer medium holder 941 is compared to the temperature under the same operating conditions in the stack without the conventional supply side cylindrical member 411. (For example, about several degrees C lower).

[0086] In addition, the temperature difference between the vicinity of one of the current collector plates 50 and the vicinity of the other current collector plate of the discharge side heat transfer medium holder 94E is similar to that in the stack without the conventional discharge side cylindrical member 41E. The temperature is lower than the operating temperature (for example, it is about 1 to 2 ° C lower).

[0087] Further, while the power sword gas utilization rate is lowered and maintained (for example, maintained at 20%), the operation as described above is continued for a predetermined time (for example, 6 hours), and every predetermined time (for example, 10%). When the voltage is sampled every second), the standard deviation of the sampled voltage is less varied (eg, several mV) than the standard deviation under similar operating conditions in the stack without the conventional supply side cylinder 411. The degree of variation will be small).

[0088] Further, when the above operation is continued for a longer time (for example, 1000 hours), the decrease in the average voltage per cell is the same as that in the stack without the conventional supply side tubular member 411. Smaller than the decrease in average voltage per cell under operating conditions (for example, about several mV).

[0089] As described above, the structure of the heat transfer medium holders 941 and 94E, which is a feature of the present invention, allows the heat transfer medium in the heat transfer medium holders 941 and 94E to be separated from the separators 9A and 9C. Heat exchange can be suppressed. The present invention also relates to a heat transfer medium that flows from the inner region of the supply-side cylindrical member 411 to the outer region 951 of the cylindrical member in the supply-side heat transfer medium marker 941, and a cylinder in the discharge-side heat transfer medium marker 94E. The force distribution in the stacking direction of at least one of the cells 10 of the heat transfer medium flowing into the inner region of the discharge side tubular member 41E can also be adjusted by the number or size of the through portions 42. That is, according to the present invention, the flow of the heat transfer medium in the stacking direction of the cells 10 is changed by replacing the tubular members 411 and 41E. The quantity distribution can be easily adjusted.

[0090] More specifically, since heat exchange between the heat transfer medium in the supply-side heat transfer medium holder 941 and the separators 9A and 9C is suppressed, the temperature distribution inside the cell in the stacking direction of the cells 10 is not uniform. Suppressing the condition, facilitating appropriate temperature control throughout the stack, and suppressing degradation of the polymer electrolyte membrane in the MEA 5 due to drying and the performance degradation of the PEFC, which seems to be caused by flooding in the MEA 5. it can.

[0091] Also, in a PEFC system that effectively uses the heat stored in the heat transfer medium, such as a cogeneration system! /, The heat transfer medium and separator in the discharge side heat transfer medium manifold 94E Because heat exchange with 9A and 9C is suppressed, the heat of the heat transfer medium possessed by the separators 9A and 9C is also prevented from radiating to the outside, and the thermal efficiency of the PEFC system can be improved.

Here, as shown in FIG. 5, the cylindrical members 411 and 41E are arranged so as to be sandwiched between the wall surfaces of the heat transfer medium holders 94I and 94E, respectively. That is, the cylindrical members 411 and 41E are substantially fixed in the heat transfer medium manifolds 941 and 94E by frictional resistance with the wall surfaces of the heat transfer medium manifolds 941 and 94E. As a result, the cylindrical members 411 and 41E can be prevented from rotating or moving in the heat transfer medium holders 941 and 94E due to some cause such as stress caused by the heat transfer medium. Therefore, it is possible to suppress a shift in the positional relationship between the heat transfer medium flow channel grooves 26 and 36 and the hole 42.

Next, the cylindrical members 411 and 41E can be configured as in the following modifications. In addition, this invention is not limited to the following modifications.

[0094] [Variation 1]

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a supply-side cylinder member or a discharge-side cylinder member of Modification 1.

[0095] The cylindrical members 411 and 41E are formed so as to be gradually shortened as the distance between the holes 42 formed side by side in the extending direction is increased. That is, the size of the penetrating portion increases as the distance from the supply end to which the heat transfer medium is supplied. As a result, the influence of the pressure loss generated in the cylindrical members 411 and 41E is reduced, and the non-uniform flow rate of the heat transfer medium in the extending direction of the cylindrical members 411 and 41E, that is, the stacking direction of the cells 10 is suppressed. be able to. More specifically, in the supply-side cylinder member 411, the non-covered end portion 44 is disposed on the current collector plate 50 side, and the heat transfer medium is introduced from the heat transfer medium flow hole 541 of the current collector plate 50. did Accordingly, as the distance from the current collector plate 50 increases, the pressure of the heat transfer medium in the supply-side cylindrical member 411 decreases, and the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing out the same hole area force decreases and nonuniformity occurs. However, by increasing the density of the holes 42, unevenness in the outflow rate of the heat transfer medium is suppressed. Similarly, in the discharge-side cylinder member 41E, as the force on the current collector plate 50 increases, the pressure in the discharge-side cylinder member 41E increases, and the flow rate of the heat transfer medium flowing into the same hole area force decreases. The unevenness of the inflow flow rate of the heat transfer medium is suppressed by increasing the density of the holes 42 in which the nonuniformity is generated. It should be noted that the number and size of the holes 42 are formed so that the heat transfer medium can flow in and out in accordance with the design of the supply and discharge pressure and flow rate of the heat transfer medium.

[0096] [Variation 2]

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the supply-side cylinder member of Modification 2 and the discharge-side cylinder member.

The cylindrical members 411 and 41E are formed such that the distance between the holes 42 becomes shorter than the distance between the holes 42 in the central part as approaching both ends. As a result, the heat transfer medium flow rate at both ends of the cylindrical members 411 and 41E can be increased. This modification is suitable for a PEFC installation configuration in which both ends of the stack are cooled by outside air.

[0098] [Modification 3]

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the supply-side cylinder member of Modification 3 and the discharge-side cylinder member.

The cylindrical members 411 and 41E are formed such that the distance between the holes 42 becomes longer than the distance between the holes 42 in the central part as it approaches both ends. As a result, the heat transfer medium flow rate in the central part of the cylindrical members 411 and 41E can be increased. In this modification, the PEFC is installed in such a way that the cooling effect at the center is insufficient, in other words, the insulation around the stack is sufficient and the heat dissipated around the stack is small. Ni! / Is suitable.

[0100] [Variation 4]

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the supply-side cylinder member of Modification 4 and the discharge-side cylinder member.

[0101] The cylindrical members 411 and 41E are formed with cracks (penetrating portions) 43 so as to connect both ends of the cylindrical members 411 and 41E in place of the holes 42 formed side by side in the extending direction. That is, the cylinder members 411 and 41E have a C-shaped cross section. Thereby, the cylindrical member 411, 41E can be produced more simply than the formation of the hole 42. [0102] [Variation 5]

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a supply-side cylinder member or a discharge-side cylinder member of Modification 5.

[0103] The cylindrical members 411 and 41E are formed such that the size of the crack 43 gradually increases as the non-lid end 44 side force increases. As a result, the effect of pressure loss generated in the cylindrical members 411 and 41E is reduced as in the first modification, so that the extending direction of the cylindrical members 411 and 41E, i.e., this modified example is the stacking direction of the cells 10. It is possible to suppress unevenness in the flow rate of the heat transfer medium.

[Modification 6]

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a supply-side cylinder member or a discharge-side cylinder member of Modification 6.

[0105] The cylindrical members 411 and 41E are formed such that the size of the crack 43 is smaller than that of the central portion as it approaches the both end portions. As a result, the heat transfer medium flow rate in the central part of the cylindrical members 411 and 41E can be increased. This modification is an installation configuration in which the cooling effect in the central part is insufficient, in other words, the PEFC has a sufficient heat insulation around the stack and less heat is dissipated around the stack. It is suitable for the installation mode.

[Variation 7]

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a supply-side cylinder member or a discharge-side cylinder member of Modification 7.

[0107] The cylindrical members 411 and 41E are formed so that the size of the crack 43 gradually decreases as the non-lid end 44 side force increases. Thereby, the heat transfer medium flow rate on the supply end side of the cylindrical members 411 and 41E can be increased. This modification is suitable for the installation form of PEFC in which the supply end side is further cooled by the outside air.

[Variation 8]

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a supply-side cylinder member or a discharge-side cylinder member of Modification 8. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view on the outer surface side of the anode separator of the stack of this modification.

As shown in FIG. 14, in this modification, the cylindrical members 411 and 41E are configured to engage with the irregularities of the wall surfaces of the heat transfer medium molds 941 and 94E, respectively.

Here, as shown in FIG. 14, convex portions 96 extending in the cell 10 stacking direction are formed on part of the wall surfaces of the heat transfer medium holders 941 and 94E. Then, as shown in FIG. 13, the concave portions 45 having a shape that engages with the convex portions 96 are also formed on the peripheral walls of the cylindrical members 411 and 41E. It is formed by stretching in the stretching direction. Thereby, the cylindrical members 411 and 41E are more securely fixed in the heat transfer medium markers 941 and 94E, respectively.

[0111] It should be noted that a concave portion may be formed on a part of the wall surface of the heat transfer medium holders 941 and 94E, and a convex portion may be formed on the peripheral wall of the cylindrical members 4II and 41E.

[0112] Further, as shown in FIGS. 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, and 12, the cylindrical members 411 and 41E have the holes 42 formed and the sizes of the cracks 43 adjusted. Thus, the flow rate of the heat transfer medium in the extending direction of the cylindrical members 411 and 41E, that is, the stacking direction of the cells 10 can be easily adjusted. Alternatively, although not shown, the flow rate of the heat transfer medium in the stacking direction of the cells 10 can also be adjusted by adjusting the size of the holes 42. Therefore, by selecting and using the cylindrical members 4 II and 41E in FIGS. 6, 7, 8, 8, 10, 11, and 12 according to the stack installation mode, the stacking of the cells 10 can be performed. The flow distribution of the heat transfer medium in the direction can be optimized.

[0113] The cylindrical members 411 and 41E that can easily adjust the flow distribution of the heat transfer medium in the stacking direction of the cells 10 are particularly effective for stacks having a high output density for electric vehicles. In other words, a stack with a high output density generates a large amount of heat because it is operated with a large number of layers and a large current density. In addition, PEFCs mounted on mobile devices such as automobiles may have a large difference in the effect of outside air on the stack depending on the stack installation position and installation direction. That is, the optimum flow distribution of the heat transfer medium that suppresses the temperature deviation in the stacking direction of the cells 10 varies depending on the stack installation position and installation direction. Therefore, the present invention that can easily adjust the flow distribution of the heat transfer medium by exchanging the cylindrical members 411 and 41E is extremely effective.

[0114] While the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments. From the above description, many modifications and other embodiments of the present invention are obvious to one skilled in the art. Accordingly, the foregoing description should be construed as illustrative only and is provided for the purpose of teaching those skilled in the art the best mode of carrying out the invention. As long as the effects of the present invention can be obtained, the details of the structure and Z or function can be changed.

[0115] In the first embodiment, the supply-side heat transfer medium holder 941 includes the supply-side cylindrical member. 411 is disposed, and a discharge side tubular member 41E is disposed on the discharge side heat transfer medium holder 94E. However, the effect of the present invention can be obtained only by arranging the cylindrical member in any one of the heat transfer medium holders.

[0116] In the first embodiment, the heat transfer medium flow channel grooves 26, 36 are formed on the outer surfaces of all the separators 9A, 9C except for both ends. That is, the heat transfer medium flow channel grooves 26 and 36 are formed between the cells 10. For example, the heat transfer medium flow channel grooves 26 and 36 may be formed on the outer surfaces of the separators 9A and 9C every two to three cells. That is, the heat transfer medium flow channel grooves 26 and 36 may be formed between the two to three cells 10.

[0117] In the first embodiment, the heat transfer medium flow channel grooves 26 and 36 are formed on the outer surfaces of the separators 9A and 9C. In the cell laminate 99, the heat transfer medium flow channel groove 26 and the heat transfer medium The medium channel groove 36 is formed to be joined. However, the heat transfer medium channel grooves 26 and 36 may be formed only in one of the separators 9A and 9C.

[0118] In the first embodiment, the heat transfer medium channel grooves are formed on the outer surfaces of the force sword separator 9CE (see Fig. 3) and the anode separator (not shown) at both ends of the stack. Not. However, a heat transfer medium flow channel may be formed on the outer surfaces of the force sword separator and the anode separator at both ends of the stack.

[0119] The shape and the number of grooves of the heat transfer medium flow channel grooves 26, 36 are not limited to those of the first embodiment, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0120] Further, the cross-sectional shape of the heat transfer medium holders 941 and 94E is not limited to the horizontally long flat shape as in the first embodiment, but the heat transfer medium holders 941 and 94E may be heat transfer. Since the cylindrical members 411 and 41E can be disposed so as to be sandwiched between the wall surfaces of the medium holders 941 and 94E, the present invention can be implemented.

[0121] In the first embodiment, the separators 9A and 9C may be made of a force metal made of a resin containing carbon.

[0122] In the first embodiment, the current collector plate 50, the insulating plate 60, and the end plate 70 are provided with the supply-side flow holes 521, 621, 721, 531, 631, 731, 541, 641, 741, and Discharge-side circulation Deposition 52E, 62E, 72E, 53E, 63E, 73E, 54E, 64E, 74E force ^ Formed! Straining force Current collector plate 50, insulation plate 60 and end plate 70 supply side circulation hole 521, 621, 721, 531, 631 , 731, 541, 641, 741 are formed, and the other current collector plate, insulation plate and end plate (not shown) have outlet flow holes 52E, 62E, 72E, 53E, 63E, 73E, 54E, 64E, 74E It may be made. Accordingly, the heat transfer medium, the anode gas, and the power sword gas are supplied from one end plate 70 side, and the other end plate side force is also discharged. In this case, the discharge-side cylinder member 41E in the first embodiment is disposed with the non-cover end portion 44 facing the other current collector plate side.

[0123] The PEFC using the stack 100 of the above embodiment is a home cogeneration system, a motorcycle, an electric vehicle, a hybrid electric vehicle, a home electric appliance, a portable computer device, a mobile phone, a portable acoustic device, a portable device. Used in PEFC systems such as portable electrical devices such as information terminals.

Industrial applicability

[0124] The present invention is useful as a PEFC that can suppress heat exchange between the heat transfer medium and the heat transfer medium manifold wall surface and can easily adjust the flow distribution of the heat transfer medium in the cell stacking direction. It is.

Claims

The scope of the claims

[1] A cell laminated body in which cells are formed by sandwiching a MEA between a pair of plate-like separators, and the supply-side heat transfer medium that extends through the cell laminated direction in the cell laminating direction is provided. A second hold and a discharge-side heat transfer medium manifold are formed, and a starting end is connected to the supply-side heat transfer medium manifold and a terminal is connected to the discharge-side heat transfer medium manifold. A polymer electrolyte fuel cell in which a heat transfer medium flow path is formed at a joint between adjacent cells,

The heat transfer medium manifold is divided into a cylindrical member inner region and a cylindrical member outer region, and the cylindrical member has a through portion that communicates the cylindrical member inner region and the cylindrical member outer region. 2. The polymer electrolyte fuel cell according to claim 1, wherein the polymer electrolyte fuel cell is continuously formed in a direction.

[2] The polymer electrolyte fuel cell according to [1], wherein the size of the through portion increases as the cylindrical member moves away from a supply end to which the heat transfer medium is supplied.

[3] The polymer electrolyte fuel cell according to [1], wherein the size of the through portion decreases as the cylindrical member moves away from a supply end to which the heat transfer medium is supplied.

[4] As the cylindrical member moves away from the central portion in the stacking direction, the size of the penetrating portion increases! 2. The polymer electrolyte fuel cell according to claim 1, wherein

[5] The polymer electrolyte fuel cell according to [1], wherein the size of the penetrating portion decreases as the cylindrical member moves away from the central portion in the stacking direction.

[6] The through portion is a plurality of through holes formed continuously in the stacking direction, and at least one of the distribution density of the through holes and the size of the through holes continuously changes. The polymer electrolyte fuel cell according to claim 1.

[7] The polymer electrolyte form according to [1], wherein the penetrating portion is a crack extending in the stacking direction, and the size of the crack continuously changes in the stacking direction. Fuel cell.

8. The polymer electrolyte fuel cell according to claim 1, wherein the cylindrical member is engaged with a wall surface of the heat transfer medium manifold.

9. The polymer electrolyte fuel cell according to claim 1, wherein the heat insulating material is resin, glass, rubber or ceramics.