A Numerical Multiphase CFD simulation for PEMFC with Parallel and Sinusoidal flow fields

Flow field design has an important role in PEMFC (Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel cell) due to its effect on the distribution of pressure, current density, temperature, heat and water management and PEMFC performance. In this paper, the sinusoidal flow field is examined and compared with straight parallel configuration using a finite volume method based on an isothermal, steady-state and multiphase model. A set of continuity, momentum, energy, species and electrochemical equations is solved by CFD commercial code with SIMPLE algorithm as a solution approach. The simulation results are depicted as polarization and power density curves, and 2D and 3D contours of pressure and velocity in GDL (Gas Diffusion Layer)/CL (Catalyst Layer) interface. The obtained results reveal that at a certain voltage, the maximum velocity and pressure drop for sinusoidal flow field are 1.18 and 6 times more than straight parallel flow field at GDL/CL interface. Also, it is found that index current density and maximum power for sinusoidal flow field are 0.65 and 0.32 w/cm2, respectively. Ultimately the results indicated that, the sinusoidal flow field has better performance in compared with straight parallel flow field.

Keywords:

PEMFC , Flow Field , Sinusoidal , Parallel , CFD