Calculation of minimum standard ventilation rate and investigation of practical parameters in ventilation system at a fuel cells research laboratory

Fuel cell technology is cleaner, quieter, and more efficient when compared to internal combustion engines. The fuel of PEMFC technology is hydrogen that is one of the most dangerous gases according to flammability and the ability of explosion. Therefore, design of a secure FC laboratory for manufacturing and PEMFC testing is essential. According to NFPA 853 and IEC 60079, one of the main issues that should be considered for PEMFC power system is suitable ventilation system for preventing emission and explosion of hydrogen. In this paper the fundamental of standard and secure ventilation is explained and the most important design parameter of security instrument for FC lab is investigated. As a case study, a test station with 54 slpm inlet flow rate an optimized calculating algorithm is presented and discharge time of hydrogen is estimated. As well as, the minimum hydrogen discharge flow rate (cfm) is predicted. Also the effect of pressure, temperature and cross section leakage on ventilation rate and volume of danger zone is investigated. The result of this research is applied and used in National research Fuel Cell laboratory of Fuel cell center of Malek Ashtar University of technology.

Calculation of minimum standard ventilation rate and investigation of practical parameters in ventilation system at a fuel cells research laboratory Keywords:

Standard Ventilation , Cross Section Leakage , Minimum Discharge Flow Rate , Hydrogen Laboratory , Fuel Cell Test Station