Flow analysis based on cathodic current using different designs of channel distribution in PEM fuel cells

Abstract

In this work, a physical and numerical simulation of cathodic current for different designs of the channel distribution in PEM fuel cells was carried out. The first design consisted serpentine-type channels with abrupt changes in flow direction. On the other hand, Designs 2 and 3 were made of serpentine channels with a more gradual change in flow direction. The fourth design was a crisscross-type channel, which was based on continually redirecting the flow, while Design 5 was made with straight parallel channels. Designs 1-3 had one intake, while Designs 4 and 5 had three. The latter two produced more uniform electrical current distributions than Designs 1-3. It can be concluded that the intakes situated effectively within each design were as important as the shape of the channel configuration. Finally, the parallel channel flow field (Design 5) was the best alternative for current collectors due to its better performance.