Separator plates for electrochemical systems

Abstract

A separator plate (600) for an electrochemical system (1), comprising: at least one through opening (611) for forming a medium channel for medium feeding or medium discharging, at least one convex edge structure (612) arranged around the at least one through opening (611) to seal the through opening (611), and a distribution or collection structure (630) for medium distribution or medium collection, wherein at least one wing of the convex edge structure (612) has a plurality of passages for guiding the medium through the convex edge wing, wherein the distribution or collection structure (630) has a plurality of guide channels (631) and a plurality of openings (633), wherein the guide channels (631) are located at the outer side of the convex edge structure (612). A passage connected to a flange side wing, wherein the opening (633) is arranged at the side of the distribution or collection structure (630) facing away from the flange structure (612), and is fluidically connected to the flange internal space at least via the passage and the guide channel (631) in the flange side wing, and wherein the distribution or collection structure (630) has a first fluid path and a second fluid path, the first fluid path includes a first guide channel (631a) fluidically connected to the first opening (633a), and the second fluid path includes a second guide channel (631d) fluidically connected to the second opening (633d), characterized in that the minimum cross-section of the first fluid path is different from the minimum cross-section of the second fluid path.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a separator plate for an electrochemical system. Background Art

[0002] Known electrochemical systems generally include a plurality of separator plates arranged in a stack, so that an electrochemical cell or humidifier cell is contained between each two adjacent separator plates. Each separator plate, for example, includes two separate plates, which are connected to each other along their backs facing away from the electrochemical cell or humidifier cell. The separator plates are used, for example, for electrical contact of electrodes of a separate electrochemical cell (e.g., a fuel cell) and / or for electrical connection of adjacent cells (series connection of cells). The separator plates can also be configured to conduct heat generated in the cells between the separator plates. This heat is generated approximately when electrical energy or chemical energy is converted in the fuel cell. Bipolar plates are often used as separator plates in fuel cells.

[0003] Typically, the separator plate or the individual plates of the separator plate each have at least one through opening (through hole). In a stack of separator plates of an electrochemical system, the through openings of the stacked separator plates arranged in alignment or at least partially overlapping form a medium channel for medium feeding or medium discharge. In order to seal the through openings of the separator plate or the medium channel formed by the through openings, the known separator plates further have flange structures, which are arranged around the through openings of the separator plate.

[0004] The separator plate or the individual plates of the separator plate may also have a medium guide structure for supplying one or more mediums to the active area (effective area) of the separator plate and / or for transporting the medium away. The medium guide structure may, for example, include a channel and / or a web. The active area of ​​the separator plate may, for example, contain or adjoin an electrochemical cell or a humidifier cell. For example, the medium may be a fuel (such as hydrogen or methanol), a reaction gas (such as air or oxygen) or a coolant as a feed medium, while the reaction product and the heated coolant are used as the medium to be drained away. In a fuel cell, the reaction medium, i.e., the fuel and the reaction gas, are usually guided on the surfaces of the individual plates that are separated from each other, while the coolant is usually guided between the individual plates.

[0005] The flanks of the collar structure arranged around the through opening of the separator plate may have one or more passages. These passages are usually used to establish a fluid connection between the through opening of the separator plate or the media channel formed by the through opening and the active area of ​​the separator plate.

[0006] For example, publication DE 102 48 531 A1 discloses a separator plate having guide channels which are connected to passages in the flange flanks at the outside of the flange structure and are connected to the flange interior via passages in the flange flanks. With the aid of such guide channels, the medium can be guided through the flange structure in a more targeted manner. This can increase the efficiency of the electrochemical system.

[0007] However, known separator plates often do not adequately meet the ever-increasing efficiency requirements. Summary of the invention

[0008] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a separator plate for an electrochemical system which ensures the highest possible efficiency of the electrochemical system.

[0009] This object is achieved by a separator plate for an electrochemical system and an electrochemical system having a plurality of such separator plates as described below. Particular embodiments are described in the dependent claims.

[0010] Therefore, a separator plate for an electrochemical system is proposed, which has at least one through opening for forming a medium channel for medium feeding or medium discharge, has at least one flange structure arranged around at least one through opening to seal the through opening, wherein at least one flank of the flange structure has a plurality of passages for allowing the medium to pass through the flange flank, and has a distribution or collection structure for medium distribution or medium collection, wherein the distribution or collection structure has a plurality of guide channels and a plurality of openings. These guide channels are connected to the passages in the flange flank at the outer side of the flange structure. The passages passing through the flange flank can be formed, for example, by local deformation, such as an opening or a bulge (portion) of the separator plate in the region of the flange flank. Therefore, the passages passing through the flange flank or the passages in the flange flank are not necessarily openings. If necessary, the walls of the flange flank can be raised only, that is, eliminated, for example, the flange flank involved is eliminated in sections. It is only important that the passage can guide the medium through the flange flank and then the deformation or bulge (portion) forming the passage through the flange flank can form, for example, the wall of the guide channel connecting the passage. Then, the wall of the guide channel is usually integrated with the flange flank, and is integrated (transferred) therein. The opening is arranged on a side of the distribution or collection structure away from the flange structure, and is connected with the flange internal fluid at least by the passage in the guide channel and the flange flank. The flange interior is usually connected with the medium channel formed by the opening or the opening through the separator plate. The opening of the distribution or collection structure is usually provided by the groove on the separator plate, preferably by cutting or punching. This particularly relates to the reactant side, i.e. the surface of the separator plate that deviates from each other. As long as the separator plate is formed by two separate plates connected together, the opening can also be formed by the passage that ends or transitions to other flow regions, i.e. formed by the end of the wall that limits the passage, wherein the aforementioned two plates surround the cavity or the inner space of the separator plate, and this cavity or the inner space are for example used to guide the coolant.

[0011] The distribution or collection structure has a first fluid path, the first fluid path includes a first one of the guide channels connected to the first fluid in the opening, and the distribution or collection structure has a second fluid path, the second fluid path includes a second one of the guide channels connected to the second fluid in the opening. Here, the minimum cross-section (area) of the first fluid path is different from the minimum cross-section (area) of the second fluid path. Preferably, the first fluid path and the second fluid path do not overlap, do not intersect and / or do not cross.

[0012] The separator plate usually has an electrochemically active area, which is fluidically connected to the through opening of the separator plate or the medium channel formed by the through opening via a distribution or collection structure. Usually, the distribution or collection structure is arranged on the side of the flange structure away from the through opening. By making the minimum cross-section (area) of the first fluid path of the distribution or collection structure different from the minimum cross-section (area) of the second fluid path of the distribution or collection structure, the medium flow or the spatial distribution of the medium flow through the distribution or collection structure can be adjusted in a targeted manner, for example from the through opening to the active area of ​​the separator plate or from the active area to the through opening.

[0013] In known separator plates with distribution or collection structures of the type described herein, the distribution or collection structures are generally designed so that different fluid paths of the distribution or collection structures each have the same cross-section or the same minimum cross-section (area), so that the medium flow through the convex structure or the medium flow along the direction (extension) of the convex structure is generally uniform or substantially uniform. Depending on the special design of the separator plate, in particular through the geometry of the opening, the convex structure and / or the active area, such an arrangement may not result in a sufficiently good medium distribution, which sometimes significantly affects the efficiency of the electrochemical system containing the separator plate. With the design of the distribution or collection structure proposed here, the design includes fluid paths with correspondingly different minimum cross-sections (areas), and sometimes the medium distribution can be greatly improved in comparison. Compared with the system with the known separator plate, this can significantly improve the efficiency of the electrochemical system using the separator plate proposed here.

[0014] The distribution or collection structure may have at least one transverse channel, wherein at least two guide channels of the distribution or collection structure are fluidically connected to each other via at least one transverse channel. In a plane oriented parallel to the (flat surface) plane of the separator plate, the guide channel generally extends perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly to the extension direction or main extension direction of the convex edge structure. At least one transverse channel may include a plurality of transverse channels. One or more transverse channels are generally transverse to the guide channel or transverse to at least one or more extensions in the guide channel.

[0015] The distribution or collection structure of the separator plate proposed here can be formed aperiodically (irregularly) transversely to the channel. This can also help to improve the distribution or collection of the medium. The aperiodic design (irregular design) of the distribution or collection structure transversely to the guide channel can include: the (multiple) openings or at least some openings of the distribution or collection structure are arranged aperiodically transversely to the guide channel. For example, the distance between adjacent and successive openings of the distribution or collection structure can be irregular. Alternatively or in addition, the (multiple) openings or at least one opening can be arranged staggered (offset) from the guide channel in a direction transverse to the guide channel. This means that the outlet of the guide channel involved and the center of the opening to which it belongs, in particular the center of gravity of the area, do not coincide.

[0016] The minimum cross-section of the first fluid path of the distribution or collection structure is different from the minimum cross-section of the second fluid path of the distribution or collection structure, which may include: the cross-section (area) of the first opening as part of the first fluid path is different from the cross-section (area) of the second opening as part of the second fluid path.

[0017] Alternatively or additionally, the first opening of the first fluid path and the second opening of the second fluid path have different geometries. And alternatively or additionally, the openings of the distribution or collection structure can have one or more openings arranged at a first distance from the convex structure and one or more openings arranged at a second distance from the convex structure, wherein the first distance is different from the second distance. For example, the first opening of the first fluid path and the second opening of the second fluid path can be arranged at different distances from the convex structure.

[0018] The minimum cross-section (area) of the first fluid path of the distribution or collection structure is different from the minimum cross-section (area) of the second fluid path of the distribution or collection structure. Alternatively or additionally, it can be included that the minimum cross-section (area) of the first guide channel of the first fluid path is different from the minimum cross-section (area) of the second guide channel of the second fluid path, and alternatively or additionally, it can also be conceivable that the cross-sections of the first guide channel of the first fluid path and the second guide channel of the second fluid path have different geometric shapes. This can also have a targeted impact on the distribution or collection of the medium.

[0019] If the distribution or collection structure is non-periodic (irregular) in configuration transverse to the guide channel as described above, this may also include that the guide channels are arranged non-periodically. For example, the spacing between adjacent guide channels may be non-periodic (irregular). Similarly, the angles of adjacent guide channels relative to the flange flanks may also be non-periodic (irregular).

[0020] At least one guide channel of the distribution or collection structure may have at least one discharge opening, or the (multiple) openings of the distribution or collection structure or some of the openings may be formed in the guide channel. In addition to the openings formed at the edge of the distribution or collection structure, additional openings may also be provided in at least one guide channel or in at least one transverse channel, the function of which is, for example, to discharge water formed as a reaction product (which water is present in the dead space between the separator plate and the membrane electrode unit (MEA) adjacent to the separator plate or adjacent to the separator plate) into the guide channel or transverse channel and through the guide channel or transverse channel into the through opening of the separator plate fluidically connected thereto or into the medium channel formed by the through opening. In this way, freezing of water in the dead space can be avoided. For this purpose, the separator plate or the plate stack is preferably arranged or mounted so that the through opening is geographically lower than the dead space (position).

[0021] When the distribution or collection structure is non-periodic in configuration transversely to the guide channel, this can also include: at least one transverse channel is arranged non-periodically (irregularly). For example, the transverse channel can have sections with different cross-sectional areas, in particular with different heights. In this case, the transitions between sections with different heights can also extend with different inclinations. It can also be said that at least one transverse channel has sections with different cross-sectional shapes, for example strongly rounded and approximately trapezoidal cross-sectional shapes.

[0022] The convex structure and at least one transverse channel can be configured such that the height of at least one transverse channel determined perpendicular to the (flat surface) plane of the separator plate is less than the height of the convex structure determined perpendicular to the (flat surface) plane of the separator plate. For example, the height of at least one transverse channel can be at least ten percent less than the height or maximum height of the convex structure, or at least twenty percent less than the height or maximum height of the convex structure. When the separator plates are stacked and pressed (extruded) in a plate stack of an electrochemical system, at least one transverse channel (unlike the convex structure) is generally not pressed. The at least one transverse channel can then be used to support an edge or reinforced edge of a membrane or membrane electrode unit (MEA) arranged between adjacent separator plates of the electrochemical system.

[0023] The guide channel or at least some of the guide channels can be fluidly connected to each other by at least one transverse channel. The distribution or collection structure can also include one or more other guide channels, and other guide channels are connected to (one or more) transverse channels. At least one other guide channel can be, for example, arranged in a staggered manner (offset) with the guide channel. At least one other guide channel can alternatively or supplementarily have (other) extension directions that are different from the guide channel. The opening or at least some openings of the distribution or collection structure can be fluidly connected to the following guide channels via at least one other guide channel, and these guide channels are connected to the convex structure by convex flanks in the region of the passage.

[0024] The distribution or collection structure may also include at least one other transverse channel connected to at least one other guide channel. Thus, the (multiple) openings or at least some of the openings of the distribution or collection structure may be fluidically connected via at least one other transverse channel and via other guide channels to the passage through the flange flank or to the guide channel.

[0025] The passages for guiding the medium through the flange flanks are usually arranged in a row. The row of passages usually has a first terminal (end) passage and a second terminal passage, the first terminal passage forming the first end of the row of passages, and the second terminal passage forming the second end of the row of passages. Usually, the row of passages includes a plurality of other passages between the first terminal passage and the second terminal passage. These other passages usually include a first other passage and a second other passage, the first other passage is adjacent to the first terminal passage in the row of passages, and the second other passage is adjacent to the second terminal passage in the row of passages. Then, the first other passage forms the first end of the row of other passages, and the second other passage forms the second end of the row of other passages.

[0026] The distribution or collecting structure may be formed in a non-periodic manner (in an irregular manner) at least in a section of the distribution or collecting structure extending transversely to the guide channel and / or along the extension direction of the ridge structure from the first further passage to the second further passage.

[0027] The separator plate can be made of metal, preferably made of stainless steel. The separator plate can have two separate plates connected to each other. The separator plate may also have more than two separate plates connected to each other, such as two continuous plates and a heavily perforated (multi-perforated) plate located between them. The flange structure and / or the distribution or collection structure can then be constructed on at least one separate plate of the separator plate. Each separate plate is usually connected to each other by material matching (material bonding), preferably by welding, such as laser welding, by welding (braze) connection or by adhesive connection.

[0028] The flange structure and / or the distribution or collecting structure can be configured to be integral with the separator plate or with one of the separate plates. The flange structure and / or the distribution or collecting structure can be, for example, molded into the separator plate, for example by stamping (embossing) or deep drawing (deep drawing).

[0029] Typically, the separator plate proposed in the text has a transition region, which is arranged between the distribution or collection structure and the electrochemically active region of the separator plate. Then, the electrochemically active region is usually connected to the medium channel fluid through the transition region and through the distribution or collection structure and the separator plate through the opening or formed by the opening. The transition region can, for example, have a guide structure for medium guidance. The guide structure of the transition region can be configured to be integrated with the separator plate. Preferably, the guide structure of the transition region is molded into the separator plate, for example, by embossing (embossing) or deep drawing. Typically, the guide structure of the transition region includes a plurality of channels and / or webs.

[0030] Further proposed is an electrochemical system, such as a fuel cell system, an electrochemical compressor, an electrolysis device, a redox flow battery or a humidifier for a fuel cell system, which has a plurality of separator plates of the aforementioned type stacked in a stacking direction. The through openings of each separator plate are aligned with each other and form at least one medium channel for medium feeding or medium discharge. The electrochemical system generally also includes at least one membrane, generally a plurality of membranes, wherein at least one membrane is arranged between two adjacent separator plates. The membrane is generally an electrolyte membrane or a water exchange membrane. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] Embodiments of the separator plate proposed herein and of the electrochemical system proposed herein are shown in the drawings and explained in detail with the aid of the following description. The drawings show:

[0032] Figure 1 schematically illustrates in perspective view an electrochemical system having a plurality of stacked separator plates;

[0033] Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of a method known in the prior art for Figure 1 Two separator plates of an electrochemical system of the type shown and a membrane electrode unit arranged between the separator plates;

[0034] Figure 3 Schematically shown in top view Figure 2 Detail of a known separator plate

[0035] Figure 4 Schematically shown in a three-dimensional diagram Figure 2 and Figure 3 Further details of a separator plate having a flange structure with passages and having a distribution or collection structure of known design;

[0036] FIG5 schematically shows in cross-sectional view Figure 4 Details in;

[0037] Figure 6-12Detail of a separator plate of the type proposed herein according to various embodiments is schematically shown in a top view, respectively

[0038] Figures 13A-13D The inner edges of the openings of individual plates of the separator plate are schematically shown in plan views in each case according to different embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] Figure 1 An electrochemical system 1 is shown, which has a plurality of separator plates or bipolar plates 2 of identically constructed metals, which are arranged in a stack and stacked along a z-direction 7. The stacked separator plates 2 are sandwiched between two end plates 3, 4. The z-direction 7 is also referred to as the “stacking direction”. In this example, the system 1 relates to a fuel cell stack. Each two adjacent separator plates 2 of the stack thus contain (sandwich) an electrochemical cell between them, which is used, for example, to convert chemical energy into electrical energy. In order to form the electrochemical cell of the system 1, a membrane electrode unit (MEA) (e.g., see) is respectively arranged between the adjacent separator plates 2 of the stack. Figure 2 ). Each MEA generally includes at least one membrane, such as an electrolyte membrane, surrounded by a frame. In addition, a gas diffusion layer (GDL) may be arranged on one or both surfaces of the MEA.

[0040] In alternative embodiments, the system 1 can also be configured as an electrolyzer, a compressor, a redox flow battery or a humidifier. In these electrochemical systems, separator plates can also be used. The structure of these separator plates can correspond to the structure of the separator plates 2 explained in more detail here, even if in the case of an electrolyzer, in the case of an electrochemical compressor, in the case of a humidifier or in the case of a redox flow battery, the medium conveyed to or through the separator plates can also be correspondingly different from the medium used for a fuel cell system.

[0041] The z-axis 7 together with the x-axis 8 and the y-axis 9 define a right-handed Cartesian coordinate system. The separator plates 2 each define a plate plane, wherein the plate planes of the separator plates are each oriented parallel to the xy plane and thus perpendicular to the stacking direction or z-axis 7. The end plate 4 has a plurality of medium interfaces 5, through which a medium can be fed into the system 1 and through which a medium can be discharged from the system 1. The medium that can be fed into the system 1 and can be discharged from the system 1 can, for example, include a fuel such as molecular hydrogen or methanol, a reaction gas such as air or oxygen, a reaction product such as water vapor or a spent fuel, or a coolant such as water and / or ethanol.

[0042] Figure 2 A perspective view of a separator plate or bipolar plate 2 known in the prior art is shown, for example, Figure 1A separator plate or bipolar plate for an electrochemical system of the type shown. In addition, Figure 2 A membrane electrode unit (MEA) 10 is shown arranged between these adjacent separator plates 2, wherein Figure 2 The MEA 10 in the figure is largely obscured by the separator plate 2 facing the viewer. Here and below, features that appear repeatedly in different figures are correspondingly labeled with the same or similar reference numerals. Features with reference numerals ending with a letter belong to the group of features with the corresponding reference numerals but without the ending letter. The separator plate 2 consists of two separate plates 2a, 2b, which are connected together by material bonding (material bonding) (see, for example, Figure 4 and FIG. 5 ), in which only the first individual pane 2 a facing the observer is visible, which covers the second individual pane 2 b. Figure 3 Shown in top view Figure 2 Detail of a separator plate 2. The individual plates 2a, 2b can each be made of a metal plate, for example a stainless steel plate. The individual plates 2a, 2b can be welded together, for example by laser welding.

[0043] The individual plates 2a, 2b have through openings aligned with one another, which form the through openings 11a-c of the separator plate 2. When a plurality of separator plates of the type of separator plate 2 are stacked together, the through openings 11a-c extend through the stack of the system 1 in the stacking direction 7 (see Figure 1 ). Usually, the media channel formed by the through openings 11a-c is respectively connected to a port 5 in the end plate 4 of the system 1. With the media channel formed by the through opening 11a, for example, a coolant can be introduced into the stack or removed from the stack. In contrast, the guide formed by the through openings 11b, 11c can be designed to supply fuel and reactant gases to the electrochemical cells of the fuel cell stack of the system 1, and to remove reaction products from the stack.

[0044] In order to seal the through openings 11a-c relative to the interior of the stack and relative to the surroundings, the first individual plate 2a has a sealing arrangement (sealing structure) in the form of sealing beads (sealing beads) 12a-c, which are arranged around the through openings 11a-c and completely surround the through openings 11a-c. The second individual plate 2b is located on the back of the separator plate 2. Figure 2 A corresponding sealing ridge is provided at the back side facing the observer for sealing through the openings 11a-c (not shown).

[0045] In the electrochemically active (working) region 18, the first individual plate 2a is disposed on its side facing the Figure 2At the front side of the observer, there is a flow field 17 with structures for guiding the reaction medium along the front side of the individual plates 2a. These structures are Figure 2 The separator plate 2 is provided by a plurality of webs and channels extending between the webs and defined by the webs. Figure 2 The first separate plate 2a also includes a transition region 20 at the front side of the observer. The transition region 20 includes a structure that is configured to distribute the medium introduced into the transition region 20 from the first through opening of the two through openings 11b through the active (effective / working) region 18, and / or to collect or concentrate the medium flowing from the active region 18 to the second through opening 11b. The transition region 20 has a guide structure that is arranged at Figure 2 The webs and the channels extending between the webs and delimited by the webs are also provided.

[0046] The first separate plate 2a also comprises another sealing structure in the form of a peripheral ridge 12d, which surrounds the flow field 17 of the active (effective / working) area 18, the transition area 20 and the through openings 11b, 11c and seals them off relative to the through opening 11a, i.e. relative to the coolant circuit and relative to the surroundings of the system 1. The second separate plate 2b accordingly comprises a corresponding peripheral ridge. The structure of the active (effective / working) area 18, the guide structure of the transition area 20 and the sealing ridges 12a-d are respectively formed integrally with the separate plate 2a and are formed into the separate plate 2a, for example, in a embossing process or a deep drawing process. This also applies to the corresponding guide structure and sealing ridge of the second separate plate 2b.

[0047] The two through openings 11b or the media channels formed by the through openings 11b through the plate stack of the system 1 are respectively connected via the passage 13b in the sealing bead 12b with the opening 14b, via the guide structure of the transition area 20 and via the facing Figure 2 The flow fields 17 in the active area 18 of the first individual plate 2a of the observer are fluidically connected to each other. In a similar manner, the two through openings 11c or the medium channels formed by the through openings 11c through the plate stack of the system 1 are respectively connected via corresponding flange passages, via the corresponding transition area and via the back Figure 211a or formed by the openings 11a through the plate stack of the system 1 are fluidically connected to each other via a cavity 19 enclosed or surrounded by the individual plates 2a, 2b. This cavity 19 is used to guide the coolant through the separator plate 2, in particular to cool the electrochemically active area 18 of the separator plate 2. The opening 14a of the cavity 19 towards the transition area 20 is not through a groove in the separator plate 2a (as is the case with the passage 13b through the opening 11b), but the cavity 19 is open towards the transition area 20, and the opening (cavity) ends at the wall delimiting the cavity. Therefore, at the opening 14a, the coolant does not change from one surface of the individual plate 2a to the opposite surface as in the passage 13b through the opening 11b, but continues to flow on the same surface, i.e. inside the separator plate 2.

[0048] Figure 4 Schematically shown in a three-dimensional diagram Figure 2 and Figure 3 Detail of a separator plate 2 of the type shown in and known in the prior art. Figure 4 The separator plate 2 also includes two separate metal plates 2a, 2b, which are connected to each other in a material bonding manner, such as by laser welding. The separator plate 2 has a through opening 11b for forming a medium channel for medium feeding or medium discharge, and has a flange structure 12b. The flange structure 12b is arranged around the through opening 11b in order to seal the through opening 11b. Figure 4 In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the flange structure 12 b has a wave-shaped course (wave-shaped extension) at least in sections. Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the separator plate shown, the flange structure 12b is flanked by a plurality of passages 13b which allow the medium to be guided in a metered manner (quantitatively) through the flange structure 12b, for example from the medium passage through the opening 11b or formed by the opening 11b to the active area 18, or in the opposite direction from the active area 18 to the medium passage through the opening 11b or formed by the opening 11b. Thus, the passages 13b through the flange structure 12b establish a fluid connection between the opening 11b and the active area 18 of the separator plate 2 (see Figure 3 ).

[0049] In order to be able to conduct the medium from the through-opening 11 b to the active region 18 or from the active region 18 to the through-opening 11 b in a more targeted and / or better metered manner, Figure 4The separator plate 2 also has a distribution or collection structure 30 at least on the side of the convex structure 12b facing away from the through opening 11b. The distribution or collection structure 30 includes a plurality of guide channels 31, a plurality of transverse channels 32 and a plurality of openings 33. The openings 33 are arranged on the side of the distribution or collection structure 30 facing away from the through opening 11b and the convex structure 12b, so that the medium can leave or enter the distribution or collection structure 30 at the openings 33. The openings 33 are thus a fluid connection between the active area of ​​the separator plate 2 and 18 through the openings 11b (see Figure 3 ).

[0050] In addition, you can Figure 4 It is known that the distribution or collection structure 30 of the separator plate 2 has a periodic structure along the main extension direction of the convex edge structure 12b and thus transversely to the guide channel 31. In particular, the guide channel 31, the transverse channel 32 and the opening 33 are respectively constructed to be structurally identical and are arranged at a periodic spacing (regular spacing) (see also Figure 3 ). As a result, a constant or substantially constant medium flow through the rim structure 12b is usually established in the extension direction of the rim structure 12b.

[0051] FIG5 shows the Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a separator plate 2, wherein the section plane is oriented parallel to the xz plane and along Figure 4 , which follows the course of one of the guide channels 31. Reference numeral 15 marks the transition of the guide channel 31 into the flange flank in the separate plate 2a, while reference numeral 16 marks the upper edge of the guide channel 31 at its end facing the opening 33, likewise in the separate plate 2a. The transition 15 and the upper edge 16 extend in the same plane at their aforementioned ends.

[0052] Described below Figure 6 to Figure 1 3 respectively show details of a separator plate of the type proposed herein, which is an improvement over the prior art.

[0053] Figure 6 According to the first embodiment, a method for Figure 1 Details of the separator plate 600 of the electrochemical system of the type of system 1. Thus, according to Figure 1 The separator plate(s) 2 of the system 1 or according to Figure 1 At least some of the separator plates 2 of the system 1 may be replaced by separator plates of the type of separator plates 600 described herein. The separator plates 600 are in the form of Figure 2 , 3, 4 and 5. The separator plate comprises two separate plates connected to each other by material bonding. For example, the separator plate 600 comprises two separate plates made of metal, preferably stainless steel, which are connected to each other by laser welding. Figure 2 , 3 , 4 and 5, the separator plate 600 has a through opening 611 for forming a medium channel for medium feeding or medium discharge, a convex edge structure 612 arranged around the through opening 611 to seal the through opening 611, and a distribution or collection structure 630. The through opening 611 is only Figure 6 In brief, Figure 6 Only a section of the convex structure 612 is shown. The side wings of the convex structure 612 have passages 613 for guiding the medium through the convex structure 612. The distribution or collection structure 630 includes a guide channel, a transverse channel 632 and an opening 633. Figure 6 Only the guide channels 631a - 631d are highlighted, wherein the openings 633a - 633e are particularly highlighted.

[0054] according to Figure 6 In the embodiment shown, the through opening 611 has, for example, a substantially rectangular shape with rounded end sections. However, in another alternative embodiment, the through opening 611 may have another shape, for example a circle, such as according to Figure 2 and 3 The convex edge structure 612 for sealing the through opening 611 has a wave-shaped or at least segmented wave-shaped direction (extension). However, in an alternative embodiment, the convex edge structure 612 can deviate from this (different from this) and have another direction, such as a circular direction (route), as shown in FIG. Figure 2 and 3 The convex edge structure 612 is similar to the convex edge structure 12b of the separator plate 2. Typically, the direction (route) of the convex edge structure 612 substantially follows the inner edge 609 of the separator plate 600 that is bounded by the opening 611.

[0055] The flange structure 612 and the distribution or collection structure 630 are integral with the separator plate 600 or with at least one separate plate of the separator plate 600. For example, the flange structure 612 and the distribution or collection structure 630 can be formed on a separate plate of the separator plate 600, preferably by embossing or by deep drawing. The guide channels (mainly the guide channels 631a-631d) are connected to the passage 613 passing through the flange structure 612 at the side of the flange structure 612 facing away from the through opening 611.

[0056] The guide channels 631a-631d extend straight or at least in sections straight and are oriented perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly to the extension direction or main extension direction of the flange structure 612. Typically, the guide channels 631 each comprise an angle of between 70 and 110 degrees, preferably between 80 and 100 degrees, to the main extension direction of the flange structure. The main extension direction of the corrugated flange structure 612 is given, for example, by the shortest continuously differentiable curve, on which the inflection point of the flange structure 612 facing the flange foot 602 passing through the opening is located. Figure 6 In the cross section of the convex structure 612 shown, this is, for example, a straight line which is parallel to the inner edge 609 through the opening 611 facing the convex structure 612 and thus extends parallel or substantially parallel to the y-direction 9. Figure 6 Some guide channels, such as guide channel 631c, have a constant or substantially constant cross section along their extension direction, i.e., along the x-direction 8, wherein the cross section is determined in a plane parallel to the yz plane and thus oriented perpendicularly to the plane of the flat surface of the separator plate 600. In the separator plate 600, each guide channel extends along the main extension direction of the convex edge structure 612, i.e., in the x-direction 8. Figure 6 In other words, adjacent guide channels, for example Figure 6 The guide channels 631a and 631b and the guide channels 631b and 631c respectively have the same distance between each other.

[0057] The transverse channel 632 extends transversely to the guide channel 631. Figure 6 In the embodiment of the invention, the transverse channel is at an angle of about 20 degrees to the y-direction 9 and establishes a fluid connection between the guide channels 631. Figure 6 , two adjacent guide channels 631 are fluidically connected to each other via one of the transverse channels 632. The convex structure 612, the guide channel 631 and the transverse channel 632 are formed in such a way that the height of the guide channel 631 and the transverse channel 632 perpendicular to the (flat surface) plane of the separator plate 600 and thus determined along the z-direction 7 is smaller than the height of the convex structure 612 perpendicular to the (flat surface) plane of the separator plate. For example, the maximum height of the guide channel 631 and the transverse channel 632 is at least 10% or at least 20% less than the maximum height of the convex structure 612, respectively.

[0058] The opening 633 of the distribution or collection structure 630 is arranged at the end of the distribution or collection structure 630 facing away from the flange structure 612 and the through opening 611. The opening 633 provides a fluid connection between the through opening 611 and the active area of ​​the separator plate 600, which is, for example, Figure 2 and 3 The type of active area 18 of the separator plate 2 shown. In particular, the opening 633 communicates with the interior of the flange structure 612, which in turn is connected to the fluid through the opening 611. Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the case of separator plate 2, according to Figure 6 In the case of a separator plate 600, a transition region with a media guide structure can be arranged between the distribution or collection structure 630 and the active area of ​​the separator plate 600. The media guide structure can, for example, include a plurality of channels and / or webs. The media guide structure of the transition region of the separator plate 600 can also be formed integrally with the separator plate 600 or with a separate plate of the separator plate 600. For example, the media guide structure of the transition region of the separator plate 600 can be formed onto a separate plate of the separator plate 600, preferably by embossing or deep drawing.

[0059] The opening 633 of the distribution or collection structure 630 is provided by a groove in the separator plate 600 or a groove in a separate plate of the separator plate 600. However, in alternative embodiments, the opening 633 can also be provided by a cutout and a deformation in the separator plate 600 or in a separate plate of the separator plate 600, respectively. Figure 6 In the embodiment shown in , the opening 633 has a rounded or circular shape, respectively.

[0060] according to Figure 6 The improved separator plate 600 with Figure 2 The separator plate 2 shown in Figure 5 and known in the prior art differs in particular in that the distribution or collection structure 630 of the separator plate 600 has different fluid paths, each of which has a different minimum cross-section (area). Thus, the distribution or collection structure 630 has a first fluid path comprising a guide channel 631a and an opening 633a, and the distribution or collection structure 630 has a second fluid path comprising a guide channel 631c and an opening 633c, wherein the minimum cross-section (area) of the first fluid path is different from the minimum cross-section (area) of the second fluid path. The first fluid path and the second fluid path each provide a fluid connection between the active area of ​​the separator plate 600 through the opening 611, which is Figure 6It is not clearly shown in. For example, the minimum cross section of the first fluid path with a guide channel 631a and an opening 633a is given by the cross section of the opening 633a, and the minimum cross section of the second fluid path with a guide channel 631c and an opening 633c is given by the cross section of the opening 633d, wherein the cross sections of the openings 633a, 633c are different from each other. Since the first and second fluid paths have different minimum cross sections (areas), the spatial distribution of the medium flow by the distribution or collection structure 630 can be adjusted or controlled in a targeted manner. The distribution of the medium guided through the opening 611 in the active area of ​​the separator plate 600 can be optimized in this way. This can contribute to improving the efficiency of the electrochemical system, which is carried out in the electrochemical system by the separator plate 600 being arranged.

[0061] exist Figure 6 In the embodiment, the guide channel 631 also has at least partially different minimum cross-sections. For example, the minimum cross-section (area) of the guide channel 631a of the first fluid path is different from the minimum cross-section (area) of the guide channel 631c of the third fluid path, and the third fluid path includes an opening 633c in addition to the guide channel 631c. Figure 6 The distribution or collection structure 630 of the separator plate 600 has guide channels with variable cross sections along its direction, such as guide channels 631a, 631b and 631d. Here, the cross sections of the guide channels 631a and 631d increase in the direction away from the convex edge structure 612, while the cross section of the guide channel 631b increases toward the convex edge structure 612. Similarly, the distribution or collection structure 630 has guide channels with constant or substantially constant cross sections along its direction, such as guide channel 631c.

[0062] according to Figure 6 The separator plate 600 with Figure 2 The separator plates 2 of the embodiments 1 to 5 are also different in that the distribution or collection structure 630 of the separator plate 600 is transverse to the guide channel 631 or along the main extension direction of the convex edge structure 612, that is, in Figure 6 The distribution or collection structure 630 is formed non-periodically (irregularly) along the y direction 9. Such a non-periodic (irregular) configuration of the distribution or collection structure 630 can be used to generate a medium flow or medium flow through the convex edge structure 612 that varies or is non-constant along the extension direction of the convex edge structure 612.

[0063] according to Figure 6 The non-periodic (irregular) distribution or collection structure 630 includes an opening 633 that is transverse to the guide channel 631 or along the extension direction of the convex edge structure 612, that is, along Figure 6 The non-periodic arrangement of the y direction 9 in FIG. 6 includes adjacent openings 633 having different spacings between each other. For example, in Figure 6In the embodiment, a first distance between adjacent openings 633a, 633c determined transversely to the guide channel 631 or along the extension direction of the flange structure 612 is different from a second distance between adjacent openings 633c, 633e determined transversely to the guide channel 631 or along the extension direction of the flange structure 612. In addition, the opening 633c is aligned with the guide channel 631c, while, for example, other openings 633 are arranged to be staggered with the guide channel 631 along a direction transverse to the guide channel 631 or along the extension direction of the flange structure 612.

[0064] according to Figure 6 The non-periodicity of the distribution or collection structure 630 further includes arranging at least some of the openings 633 at different distances from the convex edge structure 612. For example, the openings 633c, 633d are arranged at different distances from the convex edge structure 612, wherein the distance is Figure 6 The x-direction is defined in the x direction and is therefore transverse to the extension direction of the flange structure 612. The passages 613 passing through the flange structure 612 are arranged in a row, and these passages pass through the flange flanks of the flange structure 612 facing away from the opening 611. The passages 613a and 613b here constitute the first end and the second end of the row of passages 613. The passage 613c is adjacent to the passage 613a in the row of passages 613, and the passage 613d is adjacent to the passage 613b in the row of passages 613. Figure 6 , passages 613c and 613d are viewed from top to bottom, thus forming the second passage and the penultimate passage in this row of passages 613. The distribution or collection structure 630 is formed non-periodically (irregularly) transversely to the guide channel 631 or along the main extension direction of the convex edge structure 612, and in particular, is also formed non-periodically (irregularly) in the portion of the distribution or collection structure 630 extending from the passage 613c to the passage 613d. Such non-periodic portion of the distribution or collection structure 630 particularly includes the guide channels 631a and 631d, and the guide channel 631 arranged between the guide channels 631a and 631d along the extension direction of the convex edge structure 612 (i.e., along the y direction 9), the lateral channel 632 and the opening 633 of the distribution or collection structure 630.

[0065] Of course, it is contemplated that in alternative embodiments, the distribution or collection structure 630 has any selection or any combination of the above-described features.

[0066] Figure 7 According to another embodiment, a method for Figure 1 Details of a separator plate 700 of an electrochemical system of the type of system 1. Figure 1 The separator plate 2 of the system 1 or according to Figure 1At least some of the separator plates 2 of the system 1 may be replaced by separator plates of the type described herein as separator plates 700 according to Figure 7 The separator plate 700 has a Figure 6 The separator plate 700 has the same or similar features as the separator plate 600. Like the separator plate 600, the separator plate 700 has a through opening 711 for forming a medium channel for medium feeding or medium discharge, a convex structure 712 arranged around the through opening 711 to seal the through opening 711, a passage 713 passing through the convex structure 712, and a distribution or collection structure 730. The distribution or collection structure 730 includes a guide channel 731, a transverse channel 732, and an opening 733. The distribution or collection structure 730 has different fluid paths, which have different minimum cross-sections, respectively. For example, the first fluid path includes a second guide channel 731a and an opening 733a, and the second fluid path includes a first guide channel 731b and an opening 733b. The first fluid path and the second fluid path have different minimum cross-sections (areas). In addition, the distribution or collection structure 730 of the separator plate 700 is transverse to the guide channel 731 or along the main extension direction of the convex structure, that is, along Figure 7 The y direction 9 in the figure is constructed to be non-periodic (irregular), and the first and second terminal (end) passages 713a and 713b are respectively incorporated into the second guide channel 731a and the first guide channel 731b of the distribution or collection structure, which together with other adjacent guide channels 731c or 731d have only one opening 733a or 733b.

[0067] according to Figure 7 The separator plate 700 with Figure 6 The separator plate 600 shown in FIG. 6 is different in that the minimum cross section of the first fluid path with the second guide channel 731a and the opening 733a is given by the minimum cross section of the second guide channel 731a, while the minimum cross section of the second fluid path with the first guide channel 731b and the opening 733b is given by the minimum cross section of the guide channel 731b, wherein the cross sections of the second guide channel 731a and the first guide channel 731b are different from each other. In addition, according to Figure 7 The distribution or collection structure 730 has openings 733 of different geometric shapes. Figure 7 In the embodiment, the openings 733 are configured, for example, as ellipses or rectangles with rounded corners or end sections, but the ratio of length to width of the various openings 733 is different. For example, the opening 733a is substantially circular, while in contrast to this, the maximum length of the opening 733b is at least twice the maximum width.

[0068] In accordance with Figure 7In the separator plate 700, the configuration of the cross sections of the various guide channels 731 is also non-periodic (irregular) transverse to the guide channels or along the main extension direction of the convex edge structure, wherein the cross sections (areas) of the guide channels 731 are respectively determined in planes perpendicular to the (flat surface) plane of the separator plate 700, Figure 7 is determined along the yz plane. Figure 7 In the illustrated embodiment, the first cross-sectional area of ​​the first guide channel 731b is, for example, at least four times the second cross-sectional area of ​​the second guide channel 731a. Figure 7 In the embodiment, the guide channel 731 is further configured such that its cross-sectional area transverse to the guide channel or transverse to the extension direction of the ridge structure 712 , ie, along the y-direction 9 , decreases monotonically or strictly monotonically at least in sections.

[0069] In accordance with Figure 7 In the separator plate 700 of FIG. 700 , the cross-section (area) of the guide channel 731 or at least some of the guide channels 731 also has a different geometric shape. This is because, according to Figure 7 The guide channels 731 of the separator plate 700 have the same height determined by the plane perpendicular to the (flat surface) of the separator plate 700, and they also have different aspect ratios due to their different cross-sectional areas. Here, the aspect ratio refers to the ratio between the height and width of each corresponding guide channel. For example, the ratio of the height H and the width B of the first guide channel 731b is about H / B=1 / 4, while the ratio of the height H and the width B of the first guide channel 731a is about H / B=1 / 1.

[0070] Of course, it is contemplated that in alternative embodiments, the distribution or collection structure 730 has any selection or any combination of the above-described features.

[0071] Figure 8 According to another embodiment, a method for Figure 1 Detail of a separator plate 800 of an electrochemical system of type 1. Figure 1 The separator plate 2 of the system 1 or according to Figure 1 At least some of the separator plates 2 of the system 1 may be replaced by separator plates of the type of separator plates 800 described herein. Figure 8 The separator plate 800 has a Figure 6 and Figure 7The separator plate 800 has the same or similar features as the separator plates 600 and 700. Like the separator plates 600 and 700, the separator plate 800 has a through opening 811 for forming a medium channel for medium feeding or medium discharge, a convex structure 812 arranged around the through opening 811 to seal the through opening 811, a passage 813 passing through the convex structure 812, and a distribution or collection structure 830. The distribution or collection structure 830 includes a guide channel 831, a transverse channel 832, and an opening 833. The distribution or collection structure 830 has different fluid paths, which have different minimum cross-sections, respectively. For example, the first fluid path includes a guide channel 831a and an opening 833a, and the second fluid path includes a guide channel 831b and an opening 833b. The first fluid path and the second fluid path have different minimum cross-sections (areas). In addition, the distribution or collection structure 830 of the separator plate 800 is transverse to the guide channel 831 or along the main extension direction of the convex structure 812, that is, along Figure 8 The y direction 9 in FIG. 1 is configured to be non-periodic (irregular).

[0072] according to Figure 8 The separator plate 800 with Figure 6 and Figure 7 The separator plates 600, 700 shown in the drawings differ in particular in that the guide channels 831 are arranged aperiodically (irregularly) transversely to the guide channels 831 or along the main extension direction of the flange structure 812. This includes, for example, that adjacent guide channels 831 have different spacings from each other. For example, in Figure 8 , a first distance between adjacent guide channels 831a, 831b, which is determined transversely to the guide channel 831 or along the extension direction of the flange structure 812, is different from a second distance between adjacent guide channels 831b, 831c, which is determined transversely to the guide channel 831 or along the extension direction of the flange structure 812. In addition, for example, the guide channel 831c extends substantially along the x-direction 8, while, for example, the guide channels 831d, 831e each have an angle with the x-direction 8 of more than 5 degrees or more than 10 degrees.

[0073] according to Figure 8 The separator plate 800 with Figure 6 and 7 The separator plates 600, 700 shown also differ in that, according to Figure 8 The non-periodicity of the distribution or collection structure 830 includes: different guide channels, such as guide channels 831c, 831d, 831e relative to the extension direction of the convex edge structure 812, that is, in Figure 8The guide channels 831a and 831c extend at different angles relative to the y-direction 9. However, not only the angles of the guide channels 831 relative to the y-direction 9 are different, but also the angles between the guide channels are different. Although the guide channels 831a and 831c have a substantially straight direction (extension) that widens symmetrically toward the transverse channel 832, the guide channel 831b extends in an arc (bend). Although the guide channel 831d extends in a straight line, it widens (expands) asymmetrically toward the transverse channel 832 because the guide channel 831d has an inclined direction relative to the main extension direction of the flange structure 812. Therefore, according to Figure 8 The separator plate 800 with Figure 6 and 7 The separator plates 600, 700 shown further differ in that, according to Figure 8 The non-periodicity of the distribution or collection structure 830 includes a further feature, according to which different guide channels, for example guide channels 831a, 831b, 831c and 831d, extend in different directions along their respective directions, that is, when projected onto the (flat surface) plane of the separator plate 800 along the z direction, the different guide channels 831 cannot overlap with each other on the (flat surface) plane of the separator plate 800 by parallel movement.

[0074] according to Figure 8 The separator plate 800 with Figure 6 and 7 The separator plates 600 and 700 shown also differ in that the transverse channels 832 are arranged in the direction of their extension, i.e. Figure 8 The separator plate 800 has a variable cross section in the y direction 9, wherein the cross section is perpendicular to the (flat surface) plane of the separator plate 800, i.e. Figure 8 The transverse channel 832 thus has, for example, a first portion 832a with an enlarged cross section and a second portion 832b with a reduced cross section. The same applies to a third portion 832c with an enlarged cross section and a fourth portion 832d with a reduced cross section. Figure 8 In the embodiment of the present invention, the above-mentioned different cross-sections (areas) are mainly due to the change of the cross-section in the x-direction, that is, perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the main extension direction of the flange structure 812. In addition, the transverse channel 832 has parts with different heights, that is, different extensions in the z-direction. Figure 8 Therefore, the fourth portion 832d has a larger cross-sectional area than the second portion 832b, and the third portion 832c has a larger cross-sectional area than the first portion 832a. Figure 8 The separator plate 800 with Figure 6 and 7The separator plates 600, 700 shown further differ in that, according to Figure 8 The non-periodicity of the distribution or collection structure 830 includes a further feature, according to which one or more transverse channels 832 have sections with different cross-sectional areas. In addition, the two transition portions 839a and 839b are constructed in different ways, i.e. with different inclinations relative to the (flat surface) plane of the separator plate 800, which also results in the non-periodicity (irregularity) of the distribution or collection structure 830 transverse to the guide channel 831 or along the main extension direction of the convex edge structure 812.

[0075] Furthermore, portions 832a-832d of transverse channel 832 are at least partially arranged aperiodically relative to and transverse to guide channel 831. Of course, it is contemplated that in alternative embodiments, distribution or collection structure 830 has any selection or combination of the above-described features.

[0076] Fig. 9 According to another embodiment, a method for Figure 1 Details of a separator plate 900 of an electrochemical system of the type 1 of system. Figure 1 The separator plate 2 of the system 1 or according to Figure 1 At least some of the separator plates 2 of the system 1 may be replaced by separator plates of the type of separator plates 900 described herein. Fig. 9 The separator plate 900 has a Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 The separator plate 900 has the same or similar features as the separator plates 600, 700, and 800. Like the separator plates 600, 700, and 800, the separator plate 900 has a through opening 911 for forming a medium channel for medium feeding or medium discharge, a convex structure 912 arranged around the through opening 911 to seal the through opening 911, a passage 913 passing through the convex structure 912, and a distribution or collection structure 930. The distribution or collection structure 930 includes a guide channel 931, a transverse channel 932, and an opening 933. The distribution or collection structure 930 has different fluid paths, and each fluid path has a different minimum cross-sectional area (area), for example, the first fluid path includes a guide channel 931a and an opening 933a, and the second fluid path includes a guide channel 931b and an opening 933b. The first fluid path and the second fluid path have different minimum cross-sectional areas. The distribution or collection structure 930 of the separator plate 900 is transverse to the guide channel 931 or along the main extension direction of the convex structure 912, that is, along Fig. 9 The y direction 9 in the graph is formed non-periodically (irregularly).

[0077] Therefore, different openings 933 have different distances from each other transversely to the guide channel 931 or along the extension direction of the flange structure 912, at least slightly different distances from the flange structure 912, different cross-sectional areas, and different geometric shapes. For example, the opening 933 can be circular, elliptical, dumbbell-shaped, triangular, rectangular, trapezoidal, polygonal, angular with rounded corners, or heart-shaped, such as Fig. 9 However, any other shape of the opening 933 is conceivable. In addition, the guide channel 931 is transverse to the guide channel or along the extension direction of the convex edge structure 912, that is, along Fig. 9 The y directions in the embodiment are arranged at least partially at different distances from one another and have at least partially different lengths or different orientations.

[0078] according to Fig. 9 The separator plate 900 with Figure 6 , 7 The difference from the separator plates 600, 700, 800 shown in FIG8 is also mainly that some guide channels 931 have discharge openings 934, in particular for passing water from the (intermediate) space between the separator plate 900 and the adjacent MEA not shown here into the corresponding guide channel 931, wherein the discharge openings 934 of different guide channels 931 can again have different cross-sectional areas and / or different geometric shapes. Transversely to the guide channel 931 or along the extension direction of the convex edge structure 912, in the embodiment shown here, the arrangement and / or shape of the discharge openings 934 in the guide channel 931 is non-periodic (irregular). Of course, it is conceivable that in alternative embodiments, the distribution or collection structure 930 has any selection or any combination of the above-mentioned features.

[0079] Fig.10 According to yet another embodiment, a method for Figure 1 Details of a separator plate 1000 of an electrochemical system of the type 1 of system 1. Figure 1 The separator plate 2 of the system 1 or according to Figure 1 At least some of the separator plates 2 of the system 1 may be replaced by separator plates of the type of separator plates 1000 described herein. Fig.10 The separator plate 1000 has a Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Fig. 9The separator plate 1000 has the same or similar features as the separator plates 600, 700, 800, and 900. Like the separator plates 600, 700, 800, and 900, the separator plate 1000 has a through opening 1011 for forming a medium channel for medium feeding or medium discharge, a convex edge structure 1012 arranged around the through opening 1011 to seal the through opening 1011, a passage 1013 passing through the convex edge structure 1012, and a distribution or collection structure 1030. The distribution or collection structure 1030 includes a guide channel 1031, a transverse channel 1032, and an opening 1033. The distribution or collection structure 1030 has different fluid paths, and each fluid path has a different minimum cross-sectional area, for example, the first fluid path includes a guide channel 1031a and an opening 1033a, and the second fluid path includes a guide channel 1031e and an opening 1033e. The first fluid path and the second fluid path have different minimum cross-sectional areas. The distribution or collection structure 1030 of the separator plate 1000 is transverse to the guide channel 1031 or along the main extension direction of the flange structure 1012, that is, in Fig.10 The structure is non-periodic (irregular) along the y direction 9.

[0080] Therefore, the openings 1033 have different distances from each other transversely to the guide channel 1031 or along the extension direction of the flange structure 1012, at least slightly different distances from the flange structure 1012, different cross-sectional areas, and different geometric shapes.

[0081] according to Fig.10 The separator plate 1000 with Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Fig. 9 The separator plates 600, 700, 800, 900 shown differ mainly in that not all guide channels 1031 are fluidically connected to each other via transverse channels 1032, wherein the arrangement of transverse channels 1032 transverse to the guide channels 1031 or along the extension direction of the flange structure 1012 is irregular. For example, adjacent guide channels 1031a, 1031b, 1031c are connected to each other via transverse channels 1032a, 1032b, while adjacent guide channels 1031c, 1031d are not fluidically connected to each other via corresponding transverse channels. Of course, it is conceivable that in alternative embodiments, the distribution or collection structure 1030 has any selection or any combination of the above-mentioned features.

[0082] Fig.11 According to yet another embodiment, a method for Figure 1 Details of a separator plate 1100 of an electrochemical system of the type of system 1. Figure 1 The separator plate 2 of the system 1 or according to Figure 1At least some of the separator plates 2 of the system 1 may be replaced by separator plates of the type of separator plates 1100 described herein. Fig.11 The separator plate 1100 has a Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Fig. 9 and Fig.10 The separator plate 1100 has the same or similar features as the separator plates 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000. Like the separator plates 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, the separator plate 1100 has a through opening 1111 for forming a medium channel for medium feeding or medium discharge, a convex edge structure 1112 arranged around the through opening 1111 to seal the through opening 1111, a passage 1113 passing through the convex edge structure 1112, and a distribution or collection structure 1130. The distribution or collection structure 1130 includes a guide channel 1131, a transverse channel 1132, and an opening 1133. The distribution or collection structure 1130 has different fluid paths, and these fluid paths have different minimum cross-sectional areas, for example, the first fluid path includes a guide channel 1131a and an opening 1133a, and the second fluid path includes a guide channel 1131b and an opening 1133b. The first fluid path has a different minimum cross-sectional area from the second fluid path. The distribution or collection structure 1130 of the separator plate 1100 is transverse to the guide channel 1131 or along the main extension direction of the flange structure 1012, that is, in Fig.11 The structure is non-periodic (irregular) along the y direction 9.

[0083] according to Fig.11 The separator plate 1100 and Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Fig. 9 The separator plate 1100 differs from the separator plates 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000 shown in FIG. 10 mainly in the additional guide channels 1135, which are connected to some of the transverse channels 1132 and extend from the transverse channels 1132 in a direction away from the flange structure 1112 and through the opening 1111. In addition, the separator plate 1100 has additional transverse channels 1136 connected to the additional guide channels 1135. Fig.11 In the embodiment, the opening 1133 is arranged at the side or end of the other guide channels 1135 and other transverse channels 1136 away from the flange structure 1112 and passing through the opening 1111. The other guide channels 1135 and other transverse channels 1136 are arranged non-periodically (irregularly) transversely to the guide channel 1131 or along the extension direction of the flange structure 1112. For example, in Fig.11In the embodiment, the other guide channels 1135 have different cross-sectional areas. In addition, one of the other guide channels 1135 shown is aligned with one of the guide channels 1131, while another other guide channel 1135 is staggered (offset) with the nearest guide channel 1131 transversely to the guide channel 1131 or along the extension direction of the flange structure 1112.

[0084] Of course, it is contemplated that in alternative embodiments, the distribution or collection structure 1130 has any selection or any combination of the above-described features.

[0085] Fig.12 According to yet another embodiment, a method for Figure 1 Details of a separator plate 1200 of an electrochemical system of the type of system 1. Figure 1 The separator plate 2 of the system 1 or according to Figure 1 At least some of the separator plates 2 of the system 1 may be replaced by separator plates of the type of separator plates 1200 described herein. Fig.12 The separator plate 1200 has a Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Fig. 9 , Fig.10 and Fig.11 The separator plate 1200 has the same or similar features as the separator plates 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100. Like the separator plates 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, the separator plate 1200 has a through opening 1211 for forming a medium channel for medium feeding or medium discharge, a convex edge structure 1212 arranged around the through opening 1211 to seal the through opening 1211, a passage 1213 passing through the convex edge structure 1212, and a distribution or collection structure 1230. The distribution or collection structure 1230 includes a guide channel 1231, a transverse channel 1232, and an opening 1233. The distribution or collection structure 1230 has different fluid paths, and these fluid paths have corresponding different minimum cross-sectional areas. For example, there is a first fluid path and a second fluid flow path, the first fluid path includes a guide channel 1231a, three openings 1233a to 1233c connected to it through other guide channels 1235a and a widened area 1237 belonging to this other guide channel 1235a, and an opening 1233d connected to the guide channel 1231a through a transverse guide channel 1232a, and the second fluid path includes a guide channel 1231e and two openings 1233f and 1233g connected through another guide channel 1235b. The first fluid path and the second fluid path have different minimum cross-sectional areas. The distribution or collection structure 1230 of the separator plate 1200 is transverse to the guide channel 1231 or along the main extension direction of the flange structure 1212, that is, along Fig.12 The y direction 9 in FIG. 1 is constructed non-periodically (irregularly).

[0086] according to Fig.12 The separator plate 1200 with Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Fig. 9 , Fig.10 and Fig.11 The separator plates 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100 shown differ primarily in the two other guide channels 1235a and 1235b already mentioned, which are connected to the transverse channels 1232a and 1232b and extend from the transverse channels 1232a, 1232b in a direction away from the flange structure 1212 and through the opening 1211. However, the extension direction also has a correspondingly large proportion in a direction perpendicular to this direction, i.e. in the y-direction. The other guide channel 1235a has a portion extending proportionally in the positive y-direction and other portions having a certain directional proportion in the negative y-direction. At least one other guide channel 1235a, 1235b has an extension direction different from that of the guide channel 1231. In addition, in Fig.12 In the embodiment, the other guide channels 1235 have different cross sections, in particular in the form of widened areas 1237 of the other guide channels 1235a. All openings 1233a to 1233g have different distances from the extension axis of the guide channels 1231a to 1231e in the y direction 9. In addition, the other guide channels 1235b have similar Fig. 9 The discharge opening 1234 of the separator plate 900 is shown.

[0087] Of course, it is contemplated that in alternative embodiments, the distribution or collection structure 1230 has any selection or any combination of the above-described features.

[0088] Figure 13 in four parts Fig.13A , Fig. 13B , Fig. 13C and Fig.13D , a schematic top view along the x-direction 8 of the inner edge of the opening 33 of an individual plate 2a of the separator plate 2 is shown, showing various cross-sectional shapes of the guide channel 31 and its variation between the transition portion of the guide channel 31 into the flange flank (the corresponding contour is indicated by the reference numeral 15) and its end facing the opening 33 (the corresponding contour is indicated by the reference numeral 16). Fig.13A and 13B A corresponding trapezoidal cross section widening toward the opening 33 is shown, wherein the course (extension) between the reference numerals 15 and 16 is Fig.13A is symmetrical in Fig. 13B is asymmetric. Fig. 13CA rounded cross section is shown, wherein a corresponding widening (enlargement) occurs between reference numeral 15 and reference numeral 16 . Fig.13D It is the transition from the rounded portion denoted by reference numeral 15 at the flange flank to the trapezoidal portion denoted by reference numeral 16 at the inner edge.

Claims

1. A separator plate (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200) for an electrochemical system (1), comprising at least one through opening (611; 711; 811; 911; 1011; 1111; 1211) for forming a medium channel for medium feeding or medium discharge, at least one flange structure (612; 712; 812; 912; 1012; 1112; 1212) arranged around at least one of the through openings (611; 711; 811; 911; 1011; 1111; 1211) to seal the through opening (611; 711; 811; 911; 1011; 1111; 1211), wherein At least one wing of the flange structure (612; 712; 812; 912; 1012; 1112; 1212) has a plurality of passages for guiding the medium through the flange wing, and A distribution or collection structure (630; 730; 830; 930; 1030; 1130; 1230) for medium distribution or medium collection, wherein the distribution or collection structure (630; 730; 830; 930; 1030; 1130; 1230) has a plurality of guide channels (631; 731; 831; 931; 1031; 1131; 1231) and a plurality of openings (633; 733; 833; 933; 1033; 1133; 1233), wherein the guide channel (631; 731; 831; 931; 1031; 1131; 1231) is connected to the passage in the flange wing at the outer side of the flange structure (612; 712; 812; 912; 1012; 1112; 1212), wherein the opening (633; 733; 833; 933; 1033; 1133; 1233) is arranged at the side of the distribution or collection structure (630; 730; 830; 930; 1030; 1130; 1230) facing away from the flange structure (612; 712; 812; 912; 1012; 1112; 1212), and is fluidically connected to the inner space of the flange at least via the passage in the flange flank and the guide channel (631; 731; 831; 931; 1031; 1131; 1231), and wherein the distribution or collection structure (630; 730; 830; 930; 1030; 1130; 1230) has a first fluid path and a second fluid path, the first fluid path comprising a first guide channel (631a; 731a; 831a; 931a; 1031a; 1131a; 1231a) being fluidically connected to a first opening (633a; 733a; 833a; 933a; 1033a; 1133a; 1233a), and the second fluid path comprising a second guide channel (631d; 731b; 831b; 931b; 1031e; 1131b; 1231e) being fluidically connected to a second opening (633d; 733b; 833b; 933b; 1033e; 1133b; 1233f), It is characterized in that The minimum cross-section of the first fluid path is different from the minimum cross-section of the second fluid path, wherein the electrochemically active area is fluidically connected to the through opening (611; 711; 811; 911; 1011; 1111; 1211) via the distribution or collection structure (630; 730; 830; 930; 1030; 1130; 1230), wherein a transition region is arranged between the distribution or collection structure (630; 730; 830; 930; 1030; 1130; 1230) and the electrochemically active region, wherein the electrochemically active zone is fluidically connected to the through opening (611; 711; 811; 911; 1011; 1111; 1211) via the transition region and via the distribution or collection structure (630; 730; 830; 930; 1030; 1130; 1230), and Therein, the transition region has a guide structure for guiding the medium.

2. The separator plate (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200) according to claim 1, characterized in that The first opening (633a; 733a; The cross-section of the second opening (833a; 933a; 1033a; 1133a; 1233a) is different from the cross-section of the second opening (633d; 733b; 833b; 933b; 1033e; 1133b; 1233f).

3. The separator plate (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The openings (633; 733; 833; 933; 1033; 1133; 1233) or at least some of the openings (633; 733; 833; 933; 1033; 1133; 1233) are arranged non-periodically transversely to the guide channel (631; 731; 831; 931; 1031; 1131; 1231).

4. The separator plate (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The openings (633; 733; 833; 933; 1033; 1133; 1233) or at least some of the openings (633; 733; 833; 933; 1033; 1133; 1233) are arranged staggered with respect to the guide channel (631; 731; 831; 931; 1031; 1131; 1231), and / or wherein the first opening (733a; 833a; 933a; 1033a; 1233a) and the second opening (733b; 833b; 933b; 1033e; 1233f) have different geometric shapes, and / or wherein the opening (633; 1233) has one or more openings (633; 1233) arranged at a first distance from the convex edge structure (612; 1212), and the opening (633; 1233) has one or more openings (633; 1233) arranged at a second distance from the convex edge structure (612; 1212), wherein the first distance and the second distance are different, and / or wherein the minimum cross section of the first guide channel (731a) is different from the minimum cross section of the second guide channel (731b), and / or Wherein, the guide channels (831; 931) are arranged non-periodically, and / or Wherein, the cross-sections of the first guide channel (631a) and the second guide channel (631d) have different geometric shapes.

5. The separator plate (900) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that At least one of the guide channels (931b) has at least one discharge opening (934).

6. The separator plate (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The distribution or collecting structure (630; 730; 830; 930; 1030; 1130; 1230) has at least one transverse channel (632; 732; 832; 932; 1032; 1132; 1232), wherein at least two of the guide channels (631; 731; 831; 931; 1031; 1131; 1231) are fluidically connected to each other via at least one transverse channel (632; 732; 832; 932; 1032; 1132; 1232).

7. The separator plate (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200) according to claim 6, characterized in that The height of at least one transverse channel (632; 732; 832; 932; 1032; 1132; 1232) determined by a plane perpendicular to the separator plate (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200) is less than the height of the convex edge structure (612; 712; 812; 912; 1012; 1112; 1212) determined by a plane perpendicular to the separator plate (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200).

8. The separator plate (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200) according to claim 7, characterized in that The height of at least one transverse channel (632; 732; 832; 932; 1032; 1132; 1232) determined by a plane perpendicular to the separator plate (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200) is less than the height of the convex edge structure (612; 712; 812; 912; 1012; 1112; 1212) or at least 10% of the maximum height.

9. The separator plate (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200) according to claim 7, characterized in that The height of at least one transverse channel (632; 732; 832; 932; 1032; 1132; 1232) determined by a plane perpendicular to the separator plate (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200) is less than the height of the convex edge structure (612; 712; 812; 912; 1012; 1112; 1212) or at least 20% of the maximum height.

10. The separator plate (600; 700; 800; 900; 1100; 1200) according to claim 6, characterized in that All guide channels (631; 731; 831; 931; 1131; 1231) are fluidically connected to one another via at least one transverse channel (632; 732; 832; 932; 1132; 1232).

11. The separator plate (1100; 1200) according to claim 5, characterized in that The distribution or collection structure (1130; 1230) includes at least one other guide channel (1135; 1235), which is connected to the transverse channel (1132; 1232) so that the openings (1133; 1233) or at least some of the openings (1133; 1233) are fluidically connected to the guide channel (1131; 1231) via the at least one other guide channel (1135; 1235).

12. The separator plate (1100) according to claim 11, characterized in that The distribution or collection structure (1130) includes at least one other transverse channel (1136), which is connected to at least one other guide channel (1135) so that the opening (1133) or at least some of the openings (1133) are fluidically connected to the guide channel (1131) via the at least one other transverse channel (1136) and via the at least one other guide channel (1135).

13. The separator plate (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that Passageways (613; 713; 813; 913; 1013; 1113) for guiding media through the flange flanks are arranged in a row, the passageways including a first terminal passageway (613a; 713a; 813a;913a; 1013a; 1113a), a second terminal passage (613b; 7 ... 813b； 913b; 1013b; 1113b), and a plurality of other passages arranged between the first terminal passage and the second terminal passage, wherein the other passages include a first other passage (613c; 713c; 813c; 913c; 1013c; 1113c), the first other passage being adjacent to the first terminal passage (613a; 713a) in the row of passages (613; 713; 813; 913; 1013; 1113) ; 813a; 913a; 1013a; 1113a), and wherein the other passages include a second other passage (613d; 713d; 813d; 913d; 1013d; 1113d) that is immediately adjacent to the second terminal passage (613b; 713b; 813b; 913b; 1013b; 1113b) in the row of passages (613; 713; 813; 913; 1013; 1113), Wherein, the distribution or collecting structure (630; 730; 830; 930; 1030; 1130) is formed in a non-periodic manner in at least a section of the distribution or collecting structure (630; 730; 830; 930; 1030; 1130), and the section extends transversely to the guide channel (631; 731; 831; 931; 1031; 1131) and / or along the extension direction of the flange structure (612; 712; 812; 912; 1012; 1112) from the first other passage (613c; 713c; 813c; 913c; 1013c; 1113c) to the second other passage (613d; 713d; 813d; 913d; 1013d; 1113d).

14. The separator plate (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that The opening (633; 733; 833; 933; 1033; 1133; 1233) is provided by a groove in the separator plate (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200), and / or Wherein, the separator plates (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200) are made of metal.

15. The separator plate (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200) according to claim 14, characterized in that The openings (633; 733; 833; 933; 1033; 1133; 1233) are provided by punching.

16. The separator plate (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200) according to claim 14, characterized in that The separator plates (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200) are made of stainless steel.

17. The separator plate (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The separator plate (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200) has two separate plates connected to each other, wherein the flange structure (612; 712; 812; 912; 1012; 1112; 1212) and the distribution or collection structure are constructed in at least one of the separate plates.

18. The separator plate (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200) according to claim 17, characterized in that The individual plates are connected to one another by a material-bonded connection.

19. The separator plate (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200) according to claim 18, characterized in that The individual plates are connected to one another by means of a soldered connection, an adhesive connection or a welded connection.

20. The separator plate (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200) according to claim 18, characterized in that The individual plates are connected to one another by laser welding.

21. The separator plate (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200) according to claim 17, characterized in that The flange structure (612; 712; 812; 912; 1012; 1112; 1212) and the distribution or collection structure (630; 730; 830; 930; 1030; 1130; 1230) are constructed to be integral with at least one of the separate plates.

22. The separator plate (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200) according to claim 1, characterized in that The guide structure of the transition region is configured integrally with the separator plate (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200).

23. The separator plate (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200) according to claim 22, characterized in that The guide structure of the transition region is integrally formed into the separator plate (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200).

24. An electrochemical system (1) comprising a plurality of separator plates (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200) according to any one of claims 1 to 23, the separator plates being stacked along a stacking direction; wherein: The through openings (611; 711; 811; 911; 1011; 1111; 1211) of the separator plates (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200) are aligned with each other and form at least one medium channel for medium feeding or medium discharge.

25. The electrochemical system (1) according to claim 24, characterized in that The electrochemical system (1) is a fuel cell system, an electrochemical compressor, an electrolysis device, a redox flow battery or a humidifier for a fuel cell system.

26. The electrochemical system (1) according to claim 24 or 25, characterized in that A membrane is arranged between two adjacent separator plates (600; 700; 800; 900; 1000; 1100; 1200).

27. The electrochemical system (1) according to claim 26, characterized in that The membrane is an electrolyte membrane or a water exchange membrane.

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