Fuel cell stack and method for manufacturing fuel cell stack

Abstract

The present invention relates to a fuel cell stack and a method for manufacturing the fuel cell stack. In a fuel cell stack (10), a surface (136a) on the opposite side of a single cell stack (18) in a first end panel portion (136) is provided with a plurality of protrusions (171), wherein the plurality of protrusions have a supporting surface (172) pointing in the stacking direction. When viewed from the stacking direction, the plurality of protrusions (171) are located at a position overlapping with a flow path sealing portion (182) or at a position adjacent to the flow path sealing portion (182), and the supporting surfaces (172) of the plurality of protrusions (171) are located on a single plane orthogonal to the stacking direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a fuel cell stack and a method for manufacturing the fuel cell stack. Background Art

[0002] The fuel cell stack includes, for example, a cell stack formed by stacking a plurality of power generation cells, and a set of end plate portions provided at both ends of the cell stack. Each power generation cell includes an electrolyte membrane-electrode assembly (MEA) formed by arranging electrodes on both sides of an electrolyte membrane, and separator members provided on both sides of the MEA.

[0003] Such a fuel cell stack needs to reliably pressurize and hold the stacked power generation cells to prevent the internal impedance of the power generation cells from increasing and the sealing performance of the reaction gas (fuel gas and oxidant gas) from decreasing. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a method for manufacturing a fuel cell stack in which a compression load is applied to the cell stack by pressing the cell stack toward one end plate portion using a pressurizing device.

[0004] Prior art literature

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2014-212090 Summary of the invention

[0007] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0008] However, sometimes the separator member has a metal plate-shaped separator body, and a flow path sealing portion is provided on the separator body to extend in a manner surrounding the power generation area and prevent leakage of the reaction gas. The flow path sealing portion includes a sealing protrusion formed integrally with the separator body. When a compressive load is applied to the single cell stack, the sealing protrusion of the flow path sealing portion is elastically deformed.

[0009] When manufacturing such a fuel cell stack, when the single cell stack is pressed toward one end plate portion, a relatively large reaction force (restoration force of the elastically deformed sealing protrusion portion) from the single cell stack is applied to the portion of the end plate portion on the one side that overlaps with the flow path sealing portion when viewed from the stacking direction. Thus, there is a possibility that the end plate portion is deformed by the reaction force from the single cell stack.

[0010] In addition, a flow path protrusion may be formed integrally with the separator body so as to protrude toward the power generation region. The flow path protrusion forms a reaction gas flow path for supplying the reaction gas to the power generation region. When a compressive load is applied to the cell stack, the flow path protrusion is elastically deformed.

[0011] When manufacturing such a fuel cell stack, when the single cell stack is pressed toward one end plate portion, a relatively large reaction force (restoration force of the elastically deformed flow path convex portion) from the single cell stack is applied to the portion of the end plate portion on the one side that overlaps with the power generation area when viewed from the stacking direction. Thus, there is a possibility that the end plate portion is deformed by the reaction force from the single cell stack.

[0012] If the entire end plate portion is thickened in order to prevent deformation due to the reaction force, there is a problem that the fuel cell stack becomes heavier and larger.

[0013] The present invention has been made in consideration of such problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a fuel cell stack and a method for manufacturing a fuel cell stack that can be downsized and lightened and can suppress deformation of end plate portions when a compressive load is applied to a single cell stack.

[0014] Solutions for solving problems

[0015] A first aspect of the present invention is a fuel cell stack comprising: a single cell stack, which is formed by stacking a plurality of power generation cells on each other, the power generation cells having an electrolyte membrane-electrode structure formed by arranging electrodes on both sides of an electrolyte membrane, and a partition member arranged on both sides of the electrolyte membrane-electrode structure; and an end panel portion, which is arranged to cover the single cell stack from the stacking direction of the plurality of power generation cells, the single cell stack being applied with a compressive load along the stacking direction, in the fuel cell stack, the partition member having a metal plate-shaped partition body, a flow path sealing portion being arranged on the partition body, the flow path sealing portion being provided with a metal plate-shaped partition body The flow path sealing portion extends in a manner surrounding the power generation area of ​​the electrolyte membrane-electrode structure and prevents leakage of reaction gas. The flow path sealing portion includes a sealing protrusion portion, which is protruded integrally with the partition body in a manner that it will elastically deform due to the compressive load. A plurality of protrusions are provided on the surface of the end panel portion on the opposite side of the single cell stack. The plurality of protrusions have supporting surfaces pointing in the stacking direction. When viewed from the stacking direction, the plurality of protrusions are located at a position overlapping with the flow path sealing portion or adjacent to the flow path sealing portion, and the supporting surfaces of the plurality of protrusions are located on a single plane orthogonal to the stacking direction.

[0016] A second aspect of the present invention is a fuel cell stack comprising: a single cell stack, which is formed by stacking a plurality of power generation cells on each other, the power generation cells having an electrolyte membrane-electrode structure formed by electrodes arranged on both sides of an electrolyte membrane, and a partition member arranged on both sides of the electrolyte membrane-electrode structure; and an end panel portion, which is arranged to cover the single cell stack from the stacking direction of the plurality of power generation cells, the single cell stack being applied with a compressive load along the stacking direction, in the fuel cell stack, the partition member having a metal plate-shaped partition body, A flow path convex portion is integrally formed with the separator body to protrude toward the power generation area, and the flow path convex portion forms a reaction gas flow path for supplying reaction gas to the power generation area of ​​the electrolyte membrane-electrode structure. A plurality of protrusions are provided on the surface of the end panel portion on the opposite side to the single cell stack, and the plurality of protrusions have supporting surfaces pointing in the stacking direction. When observed from the stacking direction, the plurality of protrusions are located at positions overlapping with the power generation area or adjacent to the power generation area, and the supporting surfaces of the plurality of protrusions are located on a single plane orthogonal to the stacking direction.

[0017] A third aspect of the present invention is a method for manufacturing a fuel cell stack, wherein the fuel cell stack is the above-mentioned fuel cell stack, and the method for manufacturing the fuel cell stack includes: a placement step, in which the end panel portion is placed in a state where the support surface of the plurality of protrusions contacts the pressure-bearing surface of the support tool of a pressurizing device with the surface of the end panel portion facing downward; a stacking step, in which the plurality of power-generating cells are stacked on the end panel portion to form the cell stack; an extrusion step, in which the cell stack is extruded toward the end panel portion by an extrusion member of the pressurizing device; and a configuration step, in which an end panel portion different from the end panel portion is provided on the side of the cell stack opposite to the end panel portion in order to apply the compressive load to the cell stack.

[0018] Effects of the Invention

[0019] According to the present invention, when a compressive load is applied to a single cell stack, the single cell stack can be pressed toward the end panel portion in a state where the supporting surfaces of the plurality of protrusions provided on the end panel portion are in contact with the pressure-bearing surface of the supporting tool of the pressurizing device. As a result, the pressure-bearing surface of the supporting tool can efficiently bear the reaction force acting on the end panel portion from the flow path sealing portion or the power generation area of ​​the single cell stack through the plurality of protrusions, thereby suppressing deformation of the end panel portion. In addition, in this case, since it is not necessary to thicken the end panel portion as a whole, the fuel cell stack can be miniaturized and lightweight.

[0020] The following embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, and the above-mentioned objects, features, and advantages will be easily understood based on the description of the embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a fuel cell stack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 2 It is along Figure 1 A longitudinal cross-sectional view of the fuel cell stack taken along line II-II.

[0023] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A partially exploded perspective view of a single cell stack in FIG.

[0024] Figure 4 It is along Figure 3 A partially omitted enlarged cross-sectional view of the fuel cell stack along line IV-IV in FIG.

[0025] Figure 5 This is a plan view of the joined separator as viewed from the first separator member side.

[0026] Figure 6 This is a plan view of the bonded spacer as viewed from the second spacer member side.

[0027] Figure 7 It is along Figure 3 A partially omitted enlarged cross-sectional view of the fuel cell stack along line VII-VII.

[0028] Figure 8 This is an explanatory plan view of the first case member as viewed from the side opposite to the stack body.

[0029] Fig. 9 It is along Figure 8 A partially omitted cross-sectional view of the IX-IX line in FIG.

[0030] Fig.10 It is along Figure 2 A partially omitted sectional view of line XX.

[0031] Fig.11 It is used to illustrate Figure 1 Flow chart of a method for manufacturing a fuel cell stack.

[0032] Fig.12 This is a first explanatory diagram of the extrusion process.

[0033] Fig.13 This is a second explanatory diagram of the extrusion process.

[0034] Fig.14 This is the third explanatory diagram of the extrusion process.

[0035] Fig.15 This is a plan view of a first case member according to a modification example as viewed from the side opposite to the stack body. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] Hereinafter, a fuel cell stack and a method for manufacturing a fuel cell stack according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings by giving preferred embodiments.

[0037] The fuel cell stack 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention is mounted on a fuel cell vehicle such as a fuel cell electric vehicle (not shown), for example. However, the fuel cell stack 10 may be a fixed type.

[0038] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the fuel cell stack 10 includes a stack body 12 and a casing unit 14. The stack body 12 includes a cell stack 18 in which a plurality of power generation cells 16 are stacked one on another. The fuel cell stack 10 is arranged so that the stacking direction (arrow A direction) of the plurality of power generation cells 16 is horizontal.

[0039] Figure 2 In the stack body 12, at one end of the stacking direction of the single cell stack 18 (the end in the direction of arrow symbol A1), the first connection plate 20a, the first inner insulating plate 22a, and the first outer insulating plate 24a are sequentially arranged outward (in the direction of arrow symbol A1). At the other end of the stacking direction of the single cell stack 18 (the end in the direction of arrow symbol A2), the second connection plate 20b, the second inner insulating plate 22b, and the second outer insulating plate 24b are sequentially arranged outward (in the direction of arrow symbol A2). The stack body 12 includes the single cell stack 18, the first connection plate 20a, the first inner insulating plate 22a, the first outer insulating plate 24a, the second connection plate 20b, the second inner insulating plate 22b, and the second outer insulating plate 24b.

[0040] The first and second wiring plates 20a and 20b are each made of a conductive material (eg, a metal material such as copper or aluminum). The first and second inner insulating plates 22a and 22b are each made of, for example, an electrically insulating resin material and are formed into a rectangular shape (quadrilateral shape).

[0041] A first recessed portion 26a (see FIG. 2 ) for arranging the first terminal plate 20a is formed on the inner surface of the first inner insulating plate 22a that faces the cell stack 18 (the surface in the direction of arrow A2). Figure 4). A second recess 26b for arranging the second terminal plate 20b is formed on the inner surface of the second inner insulating plate 22b facing the single cell stack 18 (the surface in the direction of the arrow symbol A1). The first outer insulating plate 24a and the second outer insulating plate 24b are each formed in a rectangular shape (quadrilateral shape) from, for example, an electrically insulating resin material. Alternatively, the first inner insulating plate 22a and the first outer insulating plate 24a may be formed integrally. Alternatively, the second inner insulating plate 22b and the second outer insulating plate 24b may be formed integrally.

[0042] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the power generation cell 16 has a horizontally long rectangular shape. The power generation cell 16 has: an electrolyte membrane-electrode assembly with a resin frame (hereinafter referred to as "MEA 28 with a resin frame"); and a first separator member 30 and a second separator member 32 arranged on both sides of the MEA 28 with a resin frame. The first separator member 30 and the second separator member 32 are formed by stamping a thin metal plate, such as a steel plate, a stainless steel plate, an aluminum plate, a plated steel plate, or a thin metal plate having a surface treatment for corrosion prevention applied to the surface of the metal plate, into a corrugated shape. The first separator member 30 and the second separator member 32 are joined to each other by a plurality of joining lines not shown to form a joined separator 33.

[0043] The resin-framed MEA 28 includes an electrolyte membrane-electrode assembly (hereinafter referred to as “MEA 34 ”) and a resin frame member 36 (resin frame portion, resin film) that is bonded to the outer periphery of the MEA 34 and surrounds the outer periphery.

[0044] like Figure 4 As shown, the MEA 34 includes an electrolyte membrane 38 , a cathode electrode 40 provided on one surface 38 a of the electrolyte membrane 38 , and an anode electrode 42 provided on the other surface 38 b of the electrolyte membrane 38 .

[0045] The electrolyte membrane 38 is, for example, a solid polymer electrolyte membrane (cation exchange membrane). The solid polymer electrolyte membrane is, for example, a perfluorosulfonic acid film containing water. The electrolyte membrane 38 is sandwiched between the cathode electrode 40 and the anode electrode 42. In addition to a fluorine-based electrolyte, the electrolyte membrane 38 can also use an HC (hydrocarbon) electrolyte.

[0046] Although not shown in detail, the cathode electrode 40 includes: a first electrode catalyst layer joined to one surface 38a of the electrolyte membrane 38; and a first gas diffusion layer stacked on the first electrode catalyst layer. The anode electrode 42 includes: a second electrode catalyst layer joined to the other surface 38b of the electrolyte membrane 38; and a second gas diffusion layer stacked on the second electrode catalyst layer.

[0047] The inner peripheral end of the resin frame member 36 is sandwiched by the outer peripheral end of the cathode electrode 40 and the outer peripheral end of the anode electrode 42. Instead of using the resin frame member 36, the electrolyte membrane 38 may protrude outwards compared to the cathode electrode 40 and the anode electrode 42, thereby forming the resin frame portion of the MEA 28 with a resin frame. In this case, a frame-shaped membrane may be provided on both sides of the portion of the electrolyte membrane 38 that protrudes outwards compared to the cathode electrode 40 and the anode electrode 42.

[0048] The power generation cell 16 has a power generation region 44 in which the cathode electrode 40 contacts one surface 38a of the electrolyte membrane 38 and the anode electrode 42 contacts the other surface 38b of the electrolyte membrane 38. That is, the power generation region 44 is located inside the inner peripheral end of the resin frame member 36. The power generation region 44 is formed in a rectangular shape (quadrilateral shape).

[0049] Figure 3 In the embodiment, an oxidant gas supply passage 46a, a cooling medium supply passage 48a, and a fuel gas discharge passage 50b are provided at one end edge portion (the end edge portion in the direction of arrow symbol B1) in the long side direction of each power generation unit cell 16. The oxidant gas supply passage 46a, the cooling medium supply passage 48a, and the fuel gas discharge passage 50b are arranged along the short side direction (the direction of arrow symbol C) of the power generation unit cell 16.

[0050] The oxidant gas supply through hole 46a, the cooling medium supply through hole 48a, and the fuel gas discharge through hole 50b penetrate the single cell stack 18, the first inner insulating plate 22a, and the first outer insulating plate 24a in the stacking direction, respectively. The oxidant gas (for example, oxygen-containing gas) as one of the reaction gases flows in the direction of arrow symbol A2 through the oxidant gas supply through hole 46a. The cooling medium (for example, pure water, ethylene glycol, oil, etc.) flows in the direction of arrow symbol A2 through the cooling medium supply through hole 48a. The fuel gas (for example, hydrogen-containing gas) as the other reaction gas flows in the direction of arrow symbol A1 through the fuel gas discharge through hole 50b.

[0051] A fuel gas supply passage 50a, a cooling medium discharge passage 48b, and an oxidant gas discharge passage 46b are provided at the other end edge portion (the end edge portion in the direction of arrow symbol B2) in the longitudinal direction of each power generation unit cell 16. The fuel gas supply passage 50a, the cooling medium discharge passage 48b, and the oxidant gas discharge passage 46b are arranged in a row along the direction of arrow symbol C.

[0052] The fuel gas supply through hole 50a, the cooling medium discharge through hole 48b, and the oxidant gas discharge through hole 46b penetrate the single cell stack 18, the first inner insulating plate 22a, and the first outer insulating plate 24a in the stacking direction, respectively. The fuel gas flows in the direction of arrow symbol A2 through the fuel gas supply through hole 50a. The cooling medium flows in the direction of arrow symbol A1 through the cooling medium discharge through hole 48b. The oxidant gas flows in the direction of arrow symbol A1 through the oxidant gas discharge through hole 46b.

[0053] A first discharge communication hole 52 and a second discharge communication hole 54 are provided at one end portion in the short side direction (the end portion in the direction of arrow symbol C1) of each power generation unit cell 16. The first discharge communication hole 52 and the second discharge communication hole 54 respectively penetrate the unit cell stack 18, the first inner insulating plate 22a, and the first outer insulating plate 24a in the stacking direction.

[0054] The first discharge communication hole 52 is located at a position offset in the direction of the arrow symbol B1 from the center of the longitudinal direction of the power generation unit cell 16. The first discharge communication hole 52 is connected to the fuel gas discharge communication hole 50b via a communication path (not shown) provided in the second inner insulating plate 22b or the second outer insulating plate 24b. That is, the first discharge communication hole 52 discharges the part of the generated water generated when the power generation unit cell 16 is operating (generating electricity) and guided to the fuel gas discharge communication hole 50b to the outside.

[0055] The second discharge communication hole 54 is located at a position offset in the direction of the arrow symbol B2 from the center in the longitudinal direction of the power generation unit cell 16. The second discharge communication hole 54 is connected to the oxidant gas discharge communication hole 46b via a communication path (not shown) provided in the second inner insulating plate 22b or the second outer insulating plate 24b. That is, the second discharge communication hole 54 discharges the part of the generated water generated when the power generation unit cell 16 is operating (generating electricity) and guided to the oxidant gas discharge communication hole 46b to the outside.

[0056] The arrangement, shape, and size of the above-mentioned communication holes (oxidant gas supply communication holes 46 a and the like) are not limited to the present embodiment, and may be appropriately set according to required specifications.

[0057] like Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, the first separator member 30 includes a first separator body 56 in the form of a metal plate. An oxidant gas flow path 58 (reactant gas flow path) extending in the direction of arrow symbol B is provided on the surface of the first separator body 56 facing the MEA 28 with a resin frame (hereinafter referred to as "surface 56a"). The oxidant gas flow path 58 is connected to the oxidant gas supply passage 46a and the oxidant gas discharge passage 46b so that a fluid can flow. The oxidant gas flow path 58 supplies the oxidant gas as a reactant gas to the cathode electrode 40 (power generation area 44).

[0058] The oxidizing gas flow path 58 has a plurality of linear first flow path grooves 62 formed between a plurality of linear first flow path protrusions 60 extending in the direction of arrow symbol B. However, the oxidizing gas flow path 58 (first flow path protrusions 60 and first flow path grooves 62) may extend in a wavy shape in the direction of arrow symbol B. The first flow path protrusions 60 are integrally formed with the first separator body 56 by press molding so as to protrude toward the MEA 34.

[0059] Figure 4 In FIG. 1 , the cross-sectional shape of the first flow path protrusion 60 is a trapezoidal shape that tapers toward the protruding direction of the first flow path protrusion 60. That is, the first flow path protrusion 60 is elastically deformed by the compressive load in the direction of the arrow symbol A.

[0060] The first flow path convex portion 60 includes: a pair of first side portions 63 arranged to face each other; and a first top portion 65 connecting the protruding ends of the pair of first side portions 63. The interval between the pair of first side portions 63 gradually narrows toward the first top portion 65. In addition, the first side portion 63 may be parallel to the thickness direction of the partition (the direction of the arrow symbol A). In other words, the cross-sectional shape of the first flow path convex portion 60 may also be a rectangular shape or a square shape.

[0061] like Figure 5 As shown, a first inlet buffer portion 66a is provided on the surface 56a of the first separator body 56 between the oxidant gas supply passage 46a and the oxidant gas flow path 58, and the first inlet buffer portion 66a has a plurality of boss columns formed by a plurality of boss portions 64a arranged in the direction of arrow symbol C. In addition, a first outlet buffer portion 66b is provided on the surface 56a of the first separator body 56 between the oxidant gas discharge passage 46b and the oxidant gas flow path 58, and the first outlet buffer portion 66b has a plurality of boss columns formed by a plurality of boss portions 64b arranged in the direction of arrow symbol C.

[0062] A first seal portion 68 is provided on the surface 56a of the first separator body 56 to prevent leakage of a fluid serving as a reaction gas (oxidant gas or fuel gas) or a cooling medium. The first seal portion 68 is pressed against the resin frame member 36 (see Figure 4 ). When viewed from the partition thickness direction (arrow A direction), the first sealing portion 68 extends in a straight line. However, when viewed from the partition thickness direction, the first sealing portion 68 may extend in a wave shape.

[0063] The first sealing portion 68 includes a plurality of first communication hole sealing portions 70 that surround a plurality of communication holes (such as the oxidizing gas supply communication hole 46 a ) individually, and a first flow path sealing portion 72 that is provided on the outer periphery of the first separator body 56 .

[0064] Hereinafter, the sealing portion surrounding the oxidant gas supply communication hole 46a among the plurality of first communication hole sealing portions 70 is referred to as the "first communication hole sealing portion 70a", and the sealing portion surrounding the oxidant gas discharge communication hole 46b is referred to as the "first communication hole sealing portion 70b". In addition, the sealing portion surrounding the fuel gas supply communication hole 50a among the plurality of first communication hole sealing portions 70 is referred to as the "first communication hole sealing portion 70c", and the sealing portion surrounding the fuel gas discharge communication hole 50b is referred to as the "first communication hole sealing portion 70d". Furthermore, the sealing portion surrounding the cooling medium supply communication hole 48a among the plurality of first communication hole sealing portions 70 is referred to as the "first communication hole sealing portion 70e", and the sealing portion surrounding the cooling medium discharge communication hole 48b is referred to as the "first communication hole sealing portion 70f". In addition, the sealing portion surrounding the first discharge communication hole 52 and the second discharge communication hole 54 among the plurality of first communication hole sealing portions 70 is referred to as the "first communication hole sealing portion 70g".

[0065] The first flow path sealing portion 72 is used to prevent leakage of the reaction gas (oxidant gas). The first flow path sealing portion 72 surrounds the oxidant gas flow path 58, the first inlet buffer portion 66a, the first outlet buffer portion 66b, and the plurality of first connecting hole sealing portions 70a to 70d. The first connecting hole sealing portions 70e to 70g are located outside the first flow path sealing portion 72. The first flow path sealing portion 72 extends in a manner surrounding the power generation area 44 (see Figure 4 ).

[0066] At one end side in the longitudinal direction of the first separator body 56 (in the direction of arrow symbol B1), the first flow path sealing portion 72 meanders so as to extend between the first communicating hole sealing portion 70a and the first communicating hole sealing portion 70e and between the first communicating hole sealing portion 70d and the first communicating hole sealing portion 70e.

[0067] At the other end side of the long side direction of the first separator body 56 (direction of arrow symbol B2), the first flow path sealing portion 72 meanders in a manner extending between the first connecting hole sealing portion 70c and the first connecting hole sealing portion 70f, and between the first connecting hole sealing portion 70b and the first connecting hole sealing portion 70f.

[0068] like Figure 4 As shown in FIG. 1 , the first sealing portion 68 includes: a first sealing protrusion 76 formed integrally with the first separator body 56 by press molding so as to protrude toward the MEA 28 with a resin frame; and a first resin member 78 provided on the first sealing protrusion 76. The cross-sectional shape of the first sealing protrusion 76 is a trapezoidal shape with a tapered front end toward the protruding direction of the first sealing protrusion 76. That is, the first sealing protrusion 76 is elastically deformed by a compressive load in the direction of the arrow symbol A.

[0069] The first sealing protrusion 76 includes: a pair of first protrusion side portions 80 arranged to face each other; and a first protrusion top portion 82 connecting the protruding ends of the pair of first protrusion side portions 80. The interval between the pair of first protrusion side portions 80 gradually narrows toward the first protrusion top portion 82. In addition, the first protrusion side portion 80 may be parallel to the thickness direction of the partition (the direction of the arrow symbol A). In other words, the cross-sectional shape of the first sealing protrusion 76 may also be a rectangular shape or a square shape.

[0070] The first resin material 78 is an elastic member fixed to the protruding end surface of the first sealing protrusion 76 (the outer surface of the first protrusion top 82) by printing or coating. The first resin material 78 is made of polyester fiber, for example. Alternatively, the first resin material 78 may be omitted.

[0071] Figure 5 In the embodiment, a bridge portion 84 is provided in the first separator body 56 to connect the inner side (oxidant gas supply connecting hole 46a side) and the outer side (oxidant gas flow path 58 side) of the first connecting hole sealing portion 70. A bridge portion 86 is provided in the first separator body 56 to connect the inner side (oxidant gas discharge connecting hole 46b side) and the outer side (oxidant gas flow path 58 side) of the first connecting hole sealing portion 70.

[0072] like Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, the second separator member 32 includes a second separator body 88 in the form of a metal plate. A fuel gas flow path 90 (reaction gas flow path) extending in the direction of arrow symbol B is formed on the surface of the second separator body 88 facing the MEA 28 with a resin frame (hereinafter referred to as "surface 88a"), for example. The fuel gas flow path 90 is connected to the fuel gas supply connecting hole 50a and the fuel gas discharge connecting hole 50b so that fluid can flow. The fuel gas flow path 90 supplies fuel gas as a reaction gas to the anode electrode 42 (power generation area 44).

[0073] The fuel gas flow path 90 has a plurality of linear second flow path grooves 94 formed between a plurality of linear second flow path protrusions 92 extending in the direction of arrow symbol B. However, the fuel gas flow path 90 (second flow path protrusions 92 and second flow path grooves 94) may extend in a wavy manner in the direction of arrow symbol B. The second flow path protrusions 92 are integrally formed with the second separator body 88 by press molding so as to protrude toward the MEA 34.

[0074] Figure 4 In FIG. 1 , the cross-sectional shape of the second flow path protrusion 92 is a trapezoidal shape that tapers toward the protruding direction of the second flow path protrusion 92. That is, the second flow path protrusion 92 is elastically deformed by the compressive load in the direction of the arrow symbol A.

[0075] The second flow path convex portion 92 includes: a pair of second side portions 95 arranged to face each other; and a second top portion 97 connecting the protruding ends of the pair of second side portions 95. The interval between the pair of second side portions 95 gradually narrows toward the second top portion 97. In addition, the second side portion 95 may be parallel to the thickness direction of the partition (the direction of the arrow symbol A). In other words, the cross-sectional shape of the second flow path convex portion 92 may also be a rectangular shape or a square shape.

[0076] like Figure 6 As shown, on the surface 88a of the second separator body 88, a second inlet buffer portion 98a is provided between the fuel gas supply passage 50a and the fuel gas flow path 90, and the second inlet buffer portion 98a has a plurality of boss columns formed by a plurality of boss portions 96a arranged in the direction of arrow symbol C. In addition, on the surface 88a of the second separator body 88, a second outlet buffer portion 98b is provided between the fuel gas discharge passage 50b and the fuel gas flow path 90, and the second outlet buffer portion 98b has a plurality of boss columns formed by a plurality of boss portions 96b arranged in the direction of arrow symbol C.

[0077] A second sealing portion 100 is provided on the surface 88a of the second separator body 88 to prevent leakage of a fluid serving as a reaction gas (oxidant gas or fuel gas) or a cooling medium. The second sealing portion 100 is pressed against the resin frame member 36 (see Figure 4 ). When viewed from the separator thickness direction (arrow A direction), the second sealing portion 100 extends in a straight line. However, when viewed from the separator thickness direction, the second sealing portion 100 may extend in a wave shape.

[0078] The second sealing portion 100 includes a plurality of second communication hole sealing portions 102 that surround a plurality of communication holes (such as the fuel gas supply communication hole 50 a ) individually, and a second flow path sealing portion 104 provided on the outer periphery of the second separator body 88 .

[0079] Hereinafter, the sealing portion surrounding the fuel gas supply communication hole 50a among the plurality of second communication hole sealing portions 102 is referred to as the "second communication hole sealing portion 102a", and the sealing portion surrounding the fuel gas discharge communication hole 50b is referred to as the "second communication hole sealing portion 102b". In addition, the sealing portion surrounding the oxidant gas supply communication hole 46a among the plurality of second communication hole sealing portions 102 is referred to as the "second communication hole sealing portion 102c", and the sealing portion surrounding the oxidant gas discharge communication hole 46b is referred to as the "second communication hole sealing portion 102d". Moreover, the sealing portion surrounding the cooling medium supply communication hole 48a among the plurality of second communication hole sealing portions 102 is referred to as the "second communication hole sealing portion 102e", and the sealing portion surrounding the cooling medium discharge communication hole 48b is referred to as the "second communication hole sealing portion 102f". In addition, the sealing portion surrounding the first discharge communication hole 52 and the second discharge communication hole 54 among the plurality of second communication hole sealing portions 102 is referred to as the "second communication hole sealing portion 102g".

[0080] The second flow path sealing portion 104 is used to prevent leakage of the reaction gas (fuel gas). The second flow path sealing portion 104 surrounds the fuel gas flow path 90, the second inlet buffer portion 98a, the second outlet buffer portion 98b, and the plurality of second connecting hole sealing portions 102a to 102d. The second connecting hole sealing portions 102e to 102g are located outside the second flow path sealing portion 104. The second flow path sealing portion 104 extends in a manner surrounding the power generation area 44 (see Figure 4 ).

[0081] At one end side in the longitudinal direction of the second separator body 88 (in the direction of arrow symbol B1), the second flow path sealing portion 104 meanders so as to extend between the second communicating hole sealing portion 102c and the second communicating hole sealing portion 102e and between the second communicating hole sealing portion 102b and the second communicating hole sealing portion 102e.

[0082] At the other end side of the second separator body 88 in the long side direction (direction of arrow symbol B2), the second flow path sealing portion 104 meanders in a manner extending between the second communicating hole sealing portion 102a and the second communicating hole sealing portion 102f, and between the second communicating hole sealing portion 102d and the second communicating hole sealing portion 102f.

[0083] like Figure 4As shown in FIG. 1 , the second sealing portion 100 includes: a second sealing protrusion 106, which is integrally formed with the second separator body 88 by press molding so as to protrude toward the MEA 28 with a resin frame; and a second resin member 108, which is provided on the second sealing protrusion 106. The cross-sectional shape of the second sealing protrusion 106 is a trapezoidal shape with a tapered front end toward the protruding direction of the second sealing protrusion 106. That is, the second sealing protrusion 106 is elastically deformed by the compressive load in the direction of the arrow symbol A.

[0084] The second sealing protrusion 106 includes: a pair of second protrusion side portions 110 arranged to face each other; and a second protrusion top portion 112 connecting the protruding ends of the pair of second protrusion side portions 110. The interval between the pair of second protrusion side portions 110 gradually narrows toward the second protrusion top portion 112. Moreover, the second protrusion side portion 110 may be parallel to the thickness direction of the partition (the direction of the arrow symbol A). In other words, the cross-sectional shape of the second sealing protrusion 106 may also be a rectangular shape or a square shape.

[0085] The second resin material 108 is an elastic member fixed to the protruding end surface of the second sealing protrusion 106 (the outer surface of the second protrusion top 112) by printing or coating. The second resin material 108 is made of polyester fiber, for example. In addition, the second resin material 108 may not be present.

[0086] Figure 6 In the embodiment, a bridge portion 114 is provided in the second separator body 88 to connect the inner side (fuel gas supply connecting hole 50a side) and the outer side (fuel gas flow path 90 side) of the second connecting hole sealing portion 102. A bridge portion 116 is provided in the second separator body 88 to connect the inner side (fuel gas discharge connecting hole 50b) and the outer side (fuel gas flow path 90 side) of the second connecting hole sealing portion 102.

[0087] Figure 3 and Figure 4 In the embodiment, a cooling medium flow path 118 is formed between the back surface 56b of the first separator body 56 and the back surface 88b of the second separator body 88, which are joined to each other, and is connected to the cooling medium supply passage 48a and the cooling medium discharge passage 48b. The cooling medium flow path 118 is formed by overlapping the back surface shape of the first separator body 56 formed with the oxidant gas flow path 58 and the back surface shape of the second separator body 88 formed with the fuel gas flow path 90.

[0088] like Figure 4As shown, in the power generation unit cell 16, each of the plurality of first flow path protrusions 60 faces each of the plurality of second flow path protrusions 92 via the MEA 34. The first flow path sealing portion 72 faces the second flow path sealing portion 104 via the resin frame member 36. Each of the plurality of first communication hole sealing portions 70 faces each of the plurality of second communication hole sealing portions 102 via the resin frame member 36 (see FIG. Figure 3 ).

[0089] like Figure 4 and Figure 7 As shown, a groove 120 is formed on the inner surface of the first inner insulating plate 22a, and the first sealing portion 68 of the first separator member 30 located at the outermost position in the direction of the arrow symbol A1 is arranged in the groove 120. That is, the first flow path sealing portion 72 of the first separator member 30 located at the outermost position is pressed against the bottom surface of the groove 120.

[0090] The outer surface of the portion of the first inner insulating plate 22a that overlaps with the power generation region 44 in the direction of arrow A (the surface in the direction of arrow A1) is in surface contact with the inner surface of the first outer insulating plate 24a (the surface in the direction of arrow A2). The outer surface of the portion of the first inner insulating plate 22a that overlaps with the first sealing portion 68 and the second sealing portion 100 in the direction of arrow A is in surface contact with the inner surface of the first outer insulating plate 24a.

[0091] Figure 7 In the embodiment, the first inner insulating plate 22a is provided with a first discharge pipe 122 and a second discharge pipe 124 for discharging the generated water guided from the first discharge communication hole 52 to the outside of the stack body 12. The first outer insulating plate 24a is provided with a first insertion hole 126 for inserting the first discharge pipe 122 and a second insertion hole 128 for inserting the second discharge pipe 124, which are formed to penetrate in the direction of arrow A.

[0092] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the housing unit 14 includes: a stack housing 130, which forms a stack storage space Sa for storing the stack body 12; and an auxiliary equipment housing 132, which forms a space for storing auxiliary equipment 131 for fuel cells (see Figure 2 ) auxiliary equipment storage space Sb. When viewed from a direction orthogonal to the direction of arrow symbol A, the housing unit 14 is rectangular in shape, and its long side extends along the direction of arrow symbol A.

[0093] like Figure 2As shown, the stack housing 130 includes: a peripheral wall housing 134, which covers the outer peripheral surface of the stack body 12 and is in a square tube shape; a first end panel portion 136, which is arranged at one end (the end in the direction of arrow symbol A1) of the peripheral wall housing 134; and a second end panel portion 138, which is arranged at the other end (the end in the direction of arrow symbol A2) of the peripheral wall housing 134. That is, the stack storage space Sa is formed by the peripheral wall housing 134, the first end panel portion 136, and the second end panel portion 138.

[0094] The first end panel portion 136 is joined to the peripheral wall housing 134 by bolts (not shown) in such a manner as to block the first opening 134a at one end side of the peripheral wall housing 134. An annular sealing member 140 formed of an elastic material is inserted and installed between the first end panel portion 136 and the peripheral wall housing 134 along the outer periphery of the first opening 134a. The surface of the first end panel portion 136 facing the stack body 12 (the surface in the direction of the arrow symbol A2) is in surface contact with the first outer insulating plate 24a. The detailed structure of the first end panel portion 136 will be described later.

[0095] The second end panel portion 138 is joined to the peripheral wall shell 134 by bolts 142 in such a manner as to block the second opening portion 134b on the other end side of the peripheral wall shell 134. An annular sealing member 144 formed of an elastic material is inserted and installed along the outer periphery of the second opening portion 134b between the second end panel portion 138 and the peripheral wall shell 134. A plurality of pads 146 for adjusting the magnitude of the compressive load acting on the single cell stack 18 are provided between the stack body 12 (the second outer insulating plate 24b) and the second end panel portion 138. The pads 146 are in surface contact with the second end panel portion 138. In other words, the second end panel portion 138 is fastened to the peripheral wall shell 134 by bolts 142, thereby applying a compressive load to the single cell stack 18.

[0096] The auxiliary equipment housing 132 is a protective housing for protecting the fuel cell auxiliary equipment 131 accommodated in the auxiliary equipment storage space Sb. Examples of the fuel cell auxiliary equipment 131 that can be accommodated in the auxiliary equipment storage space Sb include, for example, a gas-liquid separator, an ejector, an ejector, a fuel gas pump, and valves, which are not shown.

[0097] The auxiliary equipment housing 132 is formed by joining a first housing member 148 in a box shape that opens in the direction of arrow symbol A1 and a second housing member 150 in a box shape that opens in the direction of arrow symbol A2. The first housing member 148 includes: the first end panel portion 136; a first peripheral wall portion 152 that protrudes from the outer peripheral edge portion of the first end panel portion 136 in the direction of arrow symbol A1; and an annular first flange portion 154 that is provided at the protruding end of the first peripheral wall portion 152. The first end panel portion 136 serves as both a wall portion of the stack housing 130 and a wall portion of the auxiliary equipment housing 132. In other words, the first end panel portion 136 is a partition wall between the stack storage space Sa and the auxiliary equipment storage space Sb.

[0098] The second housing member 150 includes an outer plate 156 located at the end of the housing unit 14 in the direction of the arrow symbol A1, a second peripheral wall portion 158 protruding from the outer peripheral edge portion of the outer plate 156 in the direction of the arrow symbol A2, and an annular second flange portion 160 provided at the protruding end of the second peripheral wall portion 158. The first housing member 148 and the second housing member 150 are fastened by bolts 162 in a state where the first flange portion 154 and the second flange portion 160 are in contact with each other, thereby being integrated.

[0099] like Figure 8 As shown, the first end panel portion 136 is formed in a rectangular shape. Two pipe openings 164 and 166 are formed in the first end panel portion 136. The two pipe openings 164 and 166 are arranged to be separated from each other in the long side direction (arrow symbol B direction) of the first end panel portion 136. Each pipe opening 164 and 166 extends along the short side direction (arrow symbol C direction) of the first end panel portion 136.

[0100] The connecting pipes (not shown) connected to the oxidant gas supply connecting hole 46a, the cooling medium supply connecting hole 48a and the fuel gas discharge connecting hole 50b are passed through the pipe opening 164 on one side. The connecting pipes (not shown) connected to the fuel gas supply connecting hole 50a, the cooling medium discharge connecting hole 48b and the oxidant gas discharge connecting hole 46b are passed through the pipe opening 166 on the other side.

[0101] like Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 7 to Figure 9 As shown, a plurality of grooves 168 extending linearly along the direction of arrow symbol C are formed on the surface 136a of the first end panel portion 136 on the side of the second housing member 150. The plurality of grooves 168 are arranged at intervals along the direction of arrow symbol B. In other words, Figure 8 and Fig. 9In the first end plate portion 136, ribs 170 are formed between adjacent grooves 168. The plurality of grooves 168 and the plurality of ribs 170 are located between the two pipe openings 164 and 166 (see Figure 8 ).

[0102] In addition, if Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 7 to Figure 9 As shown, a plurality of protrusions 171 are provided on the surface 136a of the first end panel portion 136. The plurality of protrusions 171 protrude integrally from the surface 136a of the first end panel portion 136. A flat support surface 172 pointing in the direction of arrow A1 is provided at the protruding end of each protrusion 171.

[0103] Figure 4 In other words, the support surfaces 172 of the plurality of protrusions 171 are located on a single plane (the same plane) perpendicular to the arrow A direction.

[0104] Figure 2 , the height H1 of each protrusion 171 is lower than the height H2 of the first peripheral wall 152 (the distance from the surface 136a of the first end panel 136 to the protruding end of the first peripheral wall 152). That is, the support surface 172 of the plurality of protrusions 171 is located closer to the first end panel 136 side (in the direction of arrow symbol A2) than the protruding end of the first peripheral wall 152.

[0105] like Figure 8 As shown, in this embodiment, two first protrusions 174a, 174b, two second protrusions 176a, 176b, one central protrusion 177, and four peripheral protrusions 178a, 178b, 178c, 178d are provided as a plurality of protrusions 171 on the surface 136a of the first end panel portion 136. Each first protrusion 174a, 174b is a boss (Japanese: ボス) protruding from the first end panel portion 136 in a cylindrical shape (see Figure 4 ).

[0106] Figure 4 and Figure 8 In the figure, when viewed from the direction of arrow symbol A, the supporting surfaces 172 of the two first protrusions 174a and 174b are located at a position overlapping with the first flow path sealing portion 72 and the second flow path sealing portion 104 (hereinafter, referred to as "flow path sealing portion 182"). That is, when viewed from the direction of arrow symbol A, the supporting surfaces 172 of the two first protrusions 174a and 174b are located at a position overlapping with the first sealing protrusion 76 and the second sealing protrusion 106 (hereinafter, referred to as "sealing protrusion 184").

[0107] Specifically, when viewed from the direction of arrow symbol A, the two first protrusions 174a and 174b are located on the opposite side (arrow symbol C2 direction) of the first discharge pipe 122 (second discharge pipe 124) of the power generation area 44. In other words, the two first protrusions 174a and 174b are located above the power generation area 44. When viewed from the direction of arrow symbol A, the two first protrusions 174a and 174b are located adjacent to the two corners of the power generation area 44 in the arrow symbol C2 direction.

[0108] like Figure 7 As shown, each second protrusion 176a, 176b is a boss protruding from the first end panel portion 136 in a circular tubular shape. The inner hole of the second protrusion 176a is a through hole 186 that penetrates the first end panel portion 136 and allows the first discharge pipe 122 to be inserted. The inner hole of the second protrusion 176b is a through hole 188 that penetrates the first end panel portion 136 and allows the second discharge pipe 124 to be inserted. When viewed from the direction of arrow symbol A, the support surface 172 of the two second protrusions 176a, 176b is at a position overlapping with the flow path sealing portion 182. That is, when viewed from the direction of arrow symbol A, the support surface 172 of the two second protrusions 176a, 176b is at a position overlapping with the sealing protrusion 184.

[0109] Figure 8 In the figure, when viewed from the direction of arrow symbol A, the two second protrusions 176a and 176b are located closer to the direction of arrow symbol C1 than the power generation region 44. In other words, the two second protrusions 176a and 176b are located below the power generation region 44. When viewed from the direction of arrow symbol A, the support surfaces 172 of the two second protrusions 176a and 176b are located adjacent to the two corners of the power generation region 44 in the direction of arrow symbol C1.

[0110] Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 8 and Fig. 9 In the embodiment, the central protrusion 177 and the four peripheral protrusions 178a, 178b, 178c, and 178d are bosses protruding in a cylindrical shape from the first end panel portion 136. When viewed from the direction of arrow symbol A, the central protrusion 177 is located at a position overlapping with the center of the power generation area 44 (see FIG. Figure 8 ).

[0111] Figure 8In the figure, when viewed from the direction of arrow symbol A, the four peripheral protrusions 178a, 178b, 178c, and 178d are located at a position overlapping with the outer peripheral edge of the power generation region 44. Specifically, when viewed from the direction of arrow symbol A, the peripheral protrusions 178a, 178b, 178c, and 178d are located at a position overlapping with the central portion of each side of the power generation region 44.

[0112] That is, the peripheral protrusion 178a is positioned so as to overlap with a portion of the power generation region 44 that is closer to the arrow symbol B1 than the center when viewed from the direction of arrow symbol A. The peripheral protrusion 178a is located between the first protrusion 174a and the second protrusion 176a. The peripheral protrusion 178b is positioned so as to overlap with a portion of the power generation region 44 that is closer to the arrow symbol B2 than the center when viewed from the direction of arrow symbol A. The peripheral protrusion 178b is located between the first protrusion 174b and the second protrusion 176b.

[0113] The outer peripheral protrusion 178c is positioned to overlap with a portion of the power generation region 44 closer to the center in the direction of arrow C2 when viewed from the direction of arrow A. The outer peripheral protrusion 178d is positioned to overlap with a portion of the power generation region 44 closer to the center in the direction of arrow C1 when viewed from the direction of arrow A.

[0114] like Figure 8 and Fig. 9 As shown in the figure, the central protrusion 177 and the peripheral protrusions 178c and 178d are each provided in the groove 168 located between the ribs 170 in a manner spanning the mutually adjacent ribs 170. That is, the ribs 170 located on both sides of the groove 168 are connected to each other via the central protrusion 177 and the peripheral protrusions 178c and 178d. In other words, the central protrusion 177 and the peripheral protrusions 178c and 178d are each connected to the mutually adjacent ribs 170.

[0115] Fig. 9 In the figure, the ends of the plurality of ribs 170 in the direction of arrow symbol A1 are located closer to the single cell stack 18 side (arrow symbol A2 direction) than the supporting surfaces 172 of the plurality of protrusions 171. In other words, the supporting surfaces 172 of the plurality of protrusions 171 are located closer to the direction of arrow symbol A1 than the end surfaces of the plurality of ribs 170. Moreover, the end surfaces of each rib 170 and the surface 136a of the first end panel portion 136 are located at the same position in the direction of arrow symbol A.

[0116] like Figure 2 and Fig.10As shown, a plurality of protrusions 179 are provided on the surface 138a (outer surface) of the second end panel portion 138 on the opposite side to the stack body 12. The plurality of protrusions 179 protrude in a cylindrical shape from the surface 138a of the second end panel portion 138. A flat support surface 180 pointing in the direction of arrow symbol A2 is provided at the protruding end of each protrusion 179.

[0117] The heights of the plurality of protrusions 179 (the distance from the surface 138a of the second end panel portion 138 to the support surface 180) are set to be equal to each other. In other words, the support surfaces 180 of the plurality of protrusions 179 are located on a single plane (the same plane) perpendicular to the arrow A direction.

[0118] The arrangement of the plurality of protrusions 179 relative to the surface 138a of the second end panel portion 138 is substantially the same as the arrangement of the plurality of protrusions 171 relative to the surface 136a of the first end panel portion 136. In other words, when viewed from the direction of arrow symbol A, the plurality of protrusions 179 are located at a position overlapping with the plurality of protrusions 171.

[0119] That is, the support surface 180 of the plurality of protrusions 179 includes: a portion overlapping the sealing protrusion 184 when viewed from the direction of arrow symbol A; and a portion overlapping the power generation area 44 when viewed from the direction of arrow symbol A.

[0120] The operation of the fuel cell stack 10 configured in this manner will be described below.

[0121] First, if Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, the oxidant gas is introduced from the oxidant gas supply passage 46a to the oxidant gas flow path 58 of the first separator member 30. The oxidant gas moves in the direction of arrow B along the oxidant gas flow path 58 and is supplied to the cathode electrode 40 of the MEA 34.

[0122] On the other hand, Figure 3 and Figure 6 As shown, the fuel gas is introduced from the fuel gas supply passage 50a to the fuel gas flow path 90 of the second separator member 32. The fuel gas moves in the direction of arrow B along the fuel gas flow path 90 and is supplied to the anode electrode 42 of the MEA 34.

[0123] Therefore, in each MEA 34 , the oxidant gas supplied to the cathode electrode 40 and the fuel gas supplied to the anode electrode 42 are consumed by electrochemical reactions in the first electrode catalyst layer and the second electrode catalyst layer, thereby generating electric power.

[0124] Then, if Figure 3As shown, the oxidant gas supplied to the cathode electrode 40 and consumed is discharged along the oxidant gas discharge passage 46b in the direction of arrow A. Similarly, the fuel gas supplied to the anode electrode 42 and consumed is discharged along the fuel gas discharge passage 50b in the direction of arrow A.

[0125] The cooling medium supplied to the cooling medium supply passage 48a is introduced into the cooling medium flow path 118 formed between the first separator member 30 and the second separator member 32, and then flows in the direction of arrow B. The cooling medium cools the MEA 34 and is then discharged from the cooling medium discharge passage 48b.

[0126] Next, a method for manufacturing the fuel cell stack 10 according to the present embodiment will be described below.

[0127] like Fig.11 As shown, the manufacturing method of the fuel cell stack 10 includes a preparation process, a placement process, a stacking process, an extrusion process, and a configuration process. First, in the preparation process (step S1), only the first shell member 148 is fixed to one end of the peripheral wall shell 134 (refer to Fig.12 ). That is, the second end panel portion 138 is not mounted on the peripheral wall housing 134. In addition, the second housing member 150 is not mounted on the first housing member 148.

[0128] Then, in the placement step (step S2), the first housing member 148 is placed on the support tool 302 (see FIG. 1 ) of the pressurizing device 300 with the surface 136a of the first end panel portion 136 facing downward in the vertical direction. Fig.12 At this time, the support surface 172 of each protrusion 171 is in surface contact with the flat pressure receiving surface 302a of the support tool 302.

[0129] Afterwards, in the stacking process (step S3), the first outer insulating plate 24a, the first inner insulating plate 22a, the first terminal plate 20a, a plurality of power generation cells 16 (cell stack 18), the second terminal plate 20b, the second inner insulating plate 22b, the second outer insulating plate 24b and a plurality of pads 146 are stacked in sequence in the peripheral wall shell 134 to form a cell stack 18.

[0130] Then, in the extrusion process (step S4), load aging (Japanese: load aging) is performed by the extrusion member 304 to press the pad 146 downward. In other words, in the extrusion process, the single cell stack 18 is pressed toward the first end panel portion 136. In this way, a compressive load can be applied to the single cell stack 18. The compressive load applied to the single cell stack 18 in this extrusion process is greater than the compressive load acting on the single cell stack 18 when the fuel cell stack 10 is in operation. In addition, in the extrusion process, the desired compressive load is repeatedly applied to the single cell stack 18. Among them, in the extrusion process, the size, number and timing of the compressive load applied to the single cell stack 18 can be appropriately set.

[0131] like Fig.13 and Fig.14 As shown in FIG. 1 , when a compressive load is applied to the cell stack 18 in the pressing process, the first flow path protrusion 60, the second flow path protrusion 92, and the sealing protrusion 184 are elastically deformed. Thus, a relatively large reaction force is applied from the cell stack 18 to the portion of the first end plate portion 136 that overlaps with the power generation region 44 and the flow path sealing portion 182 when viewed from the stacking direction (the direction of the arrow symbol A).

[0132] Furthermore, the reaction force acting from the flow path sealing portion 182 toward the first end panel portion 136 is received by the pressure receiving surface 302a of the support tool 302 via the first protrusions 174a, 174b and the second protrusions 176a, 176b. Fig.13 As shown, the reaction force acting from the power generation area 44 toward the first end panel portion 136 is received by the pressure receiving surface 302a of the support tool 302 via the peripheral protrusions 178a, 178b, 178c, 178d and the central protrusion 177. Therefore, the first end panel portion 136 can be suppressed from being deformed by the reaction force from the single cell stack 18.

[0133] By performing such a pressing process (load aging), the first flow path protrusion 60, the second flow path protrusion 92, and the sealing protrusion 184 can be preliminarily deformed by a desired amount. Thus, the tension of the first flow path protrusion 60, the second flow path protrusion 92, and the sealing protrusion 184 during operation can be relieved.

[0134] After the extrusion process is completed, the extrusion member 304 is removed, and in the disposition process (step S5), the second end panel portion 138 is fixed to the peripheral wall housing 134 (see Figure 2). At this time, the support surface 180 of the plurality of protrusions 179 of the second end panel portion 138 is pressed toward the first end panel portion 136. As a result, the second end panel portion 138 can be suppressed from being deformed and the second end panel portion 138 can be efficiently fixed to the peripheral wall shell 134 by the bolts 142. Through such a configuration process, the single cell stack 18 is in a state where the desired compressive load is applied. In addition, in a state where the fuel cell auxiliary equipment 131 is accommodated in the first shell member 148, the second shell member 150 is fixed to the first shell member 148 by the bolts 162 (refer to Figure 2 ). Thus, the manufacture of the fuel cell stack 10 is completed.

[0135] In this case, the fuel cell stack 10 and the method for manufacturing the fuel cell stack 10 according to the present embodiment achieve the following effects.

[0136] In this embodiment, a plurality of protrusions 171 are provided on the surface 136a on the opposite side of the single cell stack 18 in the first end panel portion 136, and the plurality of protrusions 171 have support surfaces 172 pointing in the stacking direction (direction of arrow symbol A). When viewed from the stacking direction, the plurality of protrusions 171 are located at a position overlapping with the flow path sealing portion 182. The support surfaces 172 of the plurality of protrusions 171 are located on a single plane (the same plane) orthogonal to the stacking direction.

[0137] According to such a structure, when a compressive load is applied to the single cell stack 18, the single cell stack 18 can be pressed toward the first end panel portion 136 in a state where the support surface 172 of the plurality of protrusions 171 provided on the first end panel portion 136 is in contact with the pressure-bearing surface 302a of the support tool 302 of the pressurizing device 300. In this way, the reaction force (restoring force of the elastically deformed sealing protrusion 184) acting from the flow path sealing portion 182 of the single cell stack 18 to the first end panel portion 136 can be efficiently received by the pressure-bearing surface 302a of the support tool 302 through the plurality of protrusions 171. Therefore, the deformation of the first end panel portion 136 can be suppressed. In addition, in this case, since it is not necessary to thicken the first end panel portion 136 as a whole, the fuel cell stack 10 can be miniaturized and lightweight.

[0138] The plurality of protrusions 171 include first protrusions 174 a and 174 b and second protrusions 176 a and 176 b located on both sides of the power generation region 44 when viewed in the stacking direction.

[0139] According to such a structure, the reaction force acting from the flow path sealing portion 182 on the first end surface plate portion 136 can be received in a well-balanced manner by the pressure receiving surface 302a of the support tool 302 via the first protrusions 174a, 174b and the second protrusions 176a, 176b.

[0140] A plurality of (two) first protrusions 174a and 174b are provided at intervals, and a plurality of (two) second protrusions 176a and 176b are provided at intervals.

[0141] According to such a structure, the reaction force acting from the flow path sealing portion 182 on the first end surface plate portion 136 can be received in a more balanced manner by the pressure receiving surface 302a of the support tool 302 via the plurality of first protrusions 174a, 174b and the plurality of second protrusions 176a, 176b.

[0142] The first protrusions 174 a and 174 b are integrally formed with the first end panel portion 136 and are formed to be solid.

[0143] According to such a structure, the rigidity of the first end surface plate portion 136 can be effectively improved by the first protrusions 174a and 174b.

[0144] The second protrusions 176a and 176b are located below the power generation region 44. The second protrusions 176a and 176b are formed with through holes 186 and 188 for discharging generated water generated by power generation of the plurality of power generation cells 16 to the outside.

[0145] According to such a structure, the protrusions formed with the through holes 186 and 188 for discharge can be used as the second protrusions 176a and 176b. In other words, there is no need to provide a protrusion formed with a through hole for discharge in addition to the second protrusions 176a and 176b, so that the fuel cell stack 10 can be made small and light.

[0146] When viewed from the stacking direction, the plurality of protrusions 179 of the second end panel portion 138 overlap with the flow path sealing portion 182 , and the support surfaces 180 of the plurality of protrusions 179 of the second end panel portion 138 are located on a single plane orthogonal to the stacking direction.

[0147] According to such a structure, the second end panel portion 138 can be fixed to the end portion in the stacking direction of the single cell stack 18 while pressing the support surface 180 of the plurality of protrusions 179 of the second end panel portion 138 toward the first end panel portion 136. Thus, the second end panel portion 138 can be efficiently fixed while suppressing deformation of the second end panel portion 138 due to the reaction force from the flow path sealing portion 182.

[0148] In this embodiment, when viewed from the stacking direction, the plurality of protrusions 171 are located at positions overlapping the power generation region 44. The support surfaces 172 of the plurality of protrusions 171 are located on a single plane (the same plane) perpendicular to the stacking direction.

[0149] According to such a structure, when a compressive load is applied to the single cell stack 18, the reaction force (restoring force of the elastically deformed first flow path convex portion 60 and second flow path convex portion 92) acting from the power generation area 44 of the single cell stack 18 to the first end panel portion 136 can be efficiently borne by the pressure-bearing surface 302a of the support tool 302 through the plurality of protrusions 171. Therefore, the deformation of the first end panel portion 136 can be suppressed. In addition, in this case, since it is not necessary to thicken the first end panel portion 136 as a whole, the fuel cell stack 10 can be miniaturized and lightweight.

[0150] The power generation region 44 is formed in a quadrilateral shape. The plurality of protrusions 171 include a plurality of peripheral protrusions 178a, 178b, 178c, and 178d located at positions overlapping the center portions of the respective sides of the power generation region 44 when viewed from the stacking direction.

[0151] According to such a structure, the reaction force acting on the first end surface plate portion 136 from the power generation region 44 can be received in a well-balanced manner by the pressure receiving surface 302a of the support tool 302 via the plurality of peripheral protrusions 178a, 178b, 178c, and 178d.

[0152] The plurality of protrusions 171 include a central protrusion 177 that is located at a position overlapping with the central portion of the power generation region 44 when viewed from the stacking direction.

[0153] According to such a structure, the reaction force acting on the first end surface plate portion 136 from the power generation region 44 can be received by the pressure receiving surface 302 a of the support tool 302 via the central protrusion 177 .

[0154] A plurality of ribs 170 extending in one direction are arranged spaced apart from each other on the surface 136a of the first end panel portion 136. A plurality of protrusions 171 (central protrusion 177 and outer peripheral protrusions 178c and 178d) are provided so as to span between the plurality of ribs 170.

[0155] According to such a configuration, the rigidity of the first end surface plate portion 136 can be increased by the plurality of protrusions 171 (the central protrusion 177 and the outer peripheral protrusions 178 c and 178 d ).

[0156] The ends of the ribs 170 on the opposite side to the cell stack 18 (in the direction of arrow A1 ) are located closer to the cell stack 18 (in the direction of arrow A2 ) than the support surfaces 172 of the protrusions 171 .

[0157] According to such a configuration, when the first end surface plate portion 136 is set on the support tool 302 , the pressure receiving surface 302 a of the support tool 302 can be reliably brought into contact with the support surfaces 172 of the plurality of protrusions 171 .

[0158] When viewed from the stacking direction, the plurality of protrusions 179 of the second end panel portion 138 overlap with the power generation region 44 , and the support surfaces 180 of the plurality of protrusions 179 of the second end panel portion 138 are located on a single plane orthogonal to the stacking direction.

[0159] According to such a structure, the second end panel portion 138 can be fixed to the end portion in the stacking direction of the single cell stack 18 while the support surface 180 of the plurality of protrusions 179 of the second end panel portion 138 is pressed toward the first end panel portion 136. Thus, the second end panel portion 138 can be efficiently fixed while the second end panel portion 138 is prevented from being deformed by the reaction force from the power generation region 44.

[0160] In this embodiment, in the placement step, the first end panel portion 136 is placed in a state where the surface 136a of the first end panel portion 136 faces downward and the support surfaces 172 of the plurality of protrusions 171 are in contact with the pressure receiving surface 302a of the support tool 302 of the pressurizing device 300. Then, in the pressing step, the cell stack 18 is pressed toward the first end panel portion 136 by the pressing member 304 of the pressurizing device 300.

[0161] According to such a method, the reaction force acting on the first end surface plate portion 136 from the cell stack 18 (the flow path sealing portion 182 or the power generation region 44 ) can be efficiently received by the pressure receiving surface 302 a of the support tool 302 via the plurality of protrusions 171 .

[0162] In the arrangement step, the second end panel portion 138 is fixed while the support surface 180 of the plurality of protrusions 179 of the second end panel portion 138 is pressed toward the first end panel portion 136 .

[0163] According to such a method, the second end panel portion 138 can be efficiently fixed while suppressing deformation of the second end panel portion 138 .

[0164] The fuel cell stack 10 is not limited to the above-mentioned structure. Alternatively, when viewed from the direction of arrow symbol A, the first protrusions 174a, 174b and the second protrusions 176a, 176b are located adjacent to the flow path sealing portion 182 (non-overlapping position). In this case, when a compressive load is applied to the single cell stack 18, the pressure-bearing surface 302a of the support tool 302 can also efficiently bear the reaction force acting from the flow path sealing portion 182 to the first end panel portion 136 through the first protrusions 174a, 174b and the second protrusions 176a, 176b. Alternatively, when viewed from the stacking direction (arrow symbol A direction), the plurality of protrusions 179 are located adjacent to the flow path sealing portion 182 (non-overlapping position).

[0165] The number, position, size and shape of the plurality of protrusions 171 and 179 are not limited to those described above and can be appropriately set. Fig.15 The illustrated modification example relates to a first housing member 148 a that replaces the first housing member 148 .

[0166] like Fig.15 As shown, in the first housing member 148a, when viewed from the direction of arrow symbol A, the four peripheral protrusions 178a, 178b, 178c, and 178d are located at positions overlapping the corners of the power generation region 44. In this case, it is preferred that the two first protrusions 174a and 174b are located at a position away from the peripheral protrusions 178c and 178d located above by a suitable distance. The first housing member 148a of such a structure can also achieve the same effect as the first housing member 148.

[0167] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the present invention.

[0168] The above-mentioned implementation modes are summarized as follows.

[0169] The above embodiment discloses a fuel cell stack, which comprises: a single cell stack 18, which is formed by stacking a plurality of power generation cells 16, the power generation cells having an electrolyte membrane-electrode structure 34 formed by arranging electrodes 40, 42 on both sides of an electrolyte membrane 38, and partition members 30, 32 arranged on both sides of the electrolyte membrane-electrode structure; and an end panel portion 136, which is arranged to cover the single cell stack from the stacking direction of the plurality of power generation cells, the single cell stack being applied with a compressive load along the stacking direction, in the fuel cell stack, the partition member having a metal plate-shaped partition body 56, 88, and a flow path sealing portion 18 being arranged on the partition body. 2. The flow path sealing portion extends in a manner surrounding the power generation area 44 of the electrolyte membrane-electrode structure and prevents the reaction gas from leaking out. The flow path sealing portion includes a sealing protrusion 184, which is integrally protruded with the partition body in a manner that it will elastically deform due to the compressive load. A plurality of protrusions 171 are provided on the surface 136a on the opposite side of the single cell stack in the end panel portion. The plurality of protrusions 171 have supporting surfaces 172 pointing to the stacking direction. When viewed from the stacking direction, the plurality of protrusions are in a position overlapping with the flow path sealing portion or adjacent to the flow path sealing portion, and the supporting surfaces of the plurality of protrusions are located on a single plane orthogonal to the stacking direction.

[0170] According to the above fuel cell stack, the plurality of protrusions may include first protrusions 174a and 174b and second protrusions 176a and 176b located on both sides of the power generation region when viewed in the stacking direction.

[0171] According to the above fuel cell stack, a plurality of the first protrusions may be provided at intervals, and a plurality of the second protrusions may be provided at intervals.

[0172] According to the above fuel cell stack, the first protrusion may be formed integrally with the end panel portion and the first protrusion may be formed solid.

[0173] According to the above fuel cell stack, the second protrusion may be located below the power generation area, and the second protrusion may be formed with through holes 186 and 188 for discharging generated water generated by power generation of the plurality of power generation cells to the outside.

[0174] According to the above fuel cell stack, the fuel cell stack may include a peripheral wall portion 152 that protrudes from the outer edge of the end plate portion toward the side opposite to the single cell stack.

[0175] According to the above fuel cell stack, the support surfaces of the plurality of protrusions may be located closer to a position where the single cell stack is located than a protruding end of the peripheral wall portion.

[0176] According to the above-mentioned fuel cell stack, it may also be that the end panel portion is a first end panel portion, and the fuel cell stack has a second end panel portion 138, which covers the single cell stack from the opposite side of the first end panel portion, and a plurality of protrusions 179 are provided on the surface 138a of the second end panel portion on the opposite side of the single cell stack, and the plurality of protrusions 179 have a supporting surface 180 pointing to the stacking direction, and when observed from the stacking direction, the plurality of protrusions of the second end panel portion are in a position overlapping with the flow path sealing portion or adjacent to the flow path sealing portion, and the supporting surfaces of the plurality of protrusions of the second end panel portion are located on a single plane orthogonal to the stacking direction.

[0177] The above embodiment discloses a fuel cell stack, comprising: a single cell stack, which is formed by stacking a plurality of power generation cells on each other, the power generation cells having an electrolyte membrane-electrode structure formed by electrodes arranged on both sides of an electrolyte membrane, and a partition member arranged on both sides of the electrolyte membrane-electrode structure; and an end panel portion, which is configured to cover the single cell stack from the stacking direction of the plurality of power generation cells, the single cell stack being applied with a compressive load along the stacking direction, in the fuel cell stack, the partition member having a metal plate-shaped partition body, the partition body facing the The power generation area is formed by integrally protruding flow path protrusions 60, 92 from the separator body, and the flow path protrusions form reaction gas flow paths 58, 90 for supplying reaction gas to the power generation area of ​​the electrolyte membrane-electrode structure. A plurality of protrusions are provided on the surface of the end panel portion on the opposite side to the single cell stack, and the plurality of protrusions have supporting surfaces pointing in the stacking direction. When observed from the stacking direction, the plurality of protrusions are located at positions overlapping with the power generation area or adjacent to the power generation area, and the supporting surfaces of the plurality of protrusions are located on a single plane orthogonal to the stacking direction.

[0178] According to the above-mentioned fuel cell stack, the power generation region may be formed into a quadrilateral shape, and the plurality of protrusions may include a plurality of peripheral protrusions 178a to 178d that overlap with the center of each side of the power generation region when viewed from the stacking direction.

[0179] According to the above fuel cell stack, the power generation region may be formed in a quadrilateral shape, and the plurality of protrusions may include peripheral protrusions located at positions overlapping respective corners of the power generation region when viewed from the stacking direction.

[0180] According to the above fuel cell stack, the plurality of protrusions may include a central protrusion 177 located at a position overlapping with a central portion of the power generation region when viewed from the stacking direction.

[0181] According to the above fuel cell stack, a plurality of ribs 170 extending in one direction may be arranged on the surface of the end plate portion so as to be separated from each other, and the plurality of protrusions may be provided so as to span between the plurality of ribs.

[0182] According to the above fuel cell stack, ends of the plurality of ribs on the opposite side to the cell stack may be located closer to the cell stack than the support surfaces of the plurality of protrusions.

[0183] According to the above-mentioned fuel cell stack, it may also be that the end panel portion is a first end panel portion, and the fuel cell stack has a second end panel portion, which covers the single cell stack from the opposite side of the first end panel portion, and a plurality of protrusions are provided on the surface of the second end panel portion on the opposite side of the single cell stack, and the plurality of protrusions have supporting surfaces pointing in the stacking direction, and when observed from the stacking direction, the plurality of protrusions of the second end panel portion are located at a position overlapping with the power generation area or adjacent to the power generation area, and the supporting surfaces of the plurality of protrusions of the second end panel portion are located on a single plane orthogonal to the stacking direction.

[0184] The above-mentioned embodiment discloses a method for manufacturing a fuel cell stack, and the fuel cell stack is the above-mentioned fuel cell stack. In the manufacturing method of the fuel cell stack, the method includes: a placement process, in which the end panel portion is placed in a state where the support surface of the plurality of protrusions is in contact with the pressure-bearing surface 302a of the support tool 302 of the pressurizing device 300 when the surface of the end panel portion is facing downward; a stacking process, in which the plurality of power generation cells are stacked on the end panel portion to form the cell stack; an extrusion process, in which the cell stack is extruded toward the end panel portion by the extrusion member 304 of the pressurizing device; and a configuration process, in which, in order to apply the compressive load to the cell stack, an end panel portion different from the end panel portion is provided on the side of the cell stack opposite to the end panel portion.

[0185] According to the above-described method for manufacturing a fuel cell stack, in the arranging step, the second end panel portion may be fixed while the support surfaces of the plurality of protrusions of the second end panel portion are pressed toward the first end panel portion.

Claims

1. A fuel cell stack, comprising: a single cell stack (18) formed by stacking a plurality of power generation cells (16) on each other, the power generation cells having an electrolyte membrane-electrode structure (34) formed by arranging electrodes on both sides of an electrolyte membrane (38) and a partition member arranged on both sides of the electrolyte membrane-electrode structure; and an end panel portion (136) arranged to cover the single cell stack from the stacking direction of the plurality of power generation cells, the single cell stack being applied with a compressive load along the stacking direction, wherein in the fuel cell stack (10), The partition member has a partition body in the form of a metal plate, A flow path sealing portion (182) is provided on the separator body, the flow path sealing portion extending in a manner surrounding the power generation region (44) of the electrolyte membrane-electrode structure and preventing leakage of the reaction gas. The flow path sealing portion includes a sealing protrusion (184) which is formed to protrude integrally with the partition body in a manner that allows elastic deformation due to the compressive load. A plurality of protrusions (171) are provided on a surface (136a) of the end panel portion on the opposite side to the cell stack, and the plurality of protrusions have supporting surfaces (172) directed in the stacking direction. When viewed from the stacking direction, the plurality of protrusions are located at positions overlapping with the flow path sealing portion or at positions adjacent to the flow path sealing portion. The supporting surfaces of the plurality of protrusions are located on a single plane that is orthogonal to the stacking direction.

2. The fuel cell stack according to claim 1, characterized in that: The plurality of protrusions include first protrusions (174a, 174b) and second protrusions (176a, 176b) located on both sides of the power generation region when viewed from the stacking direction.

3. The fuel cell stack according to claim 2, characterized in that: A plurality of the first protrusions are arranged at intervals, A plurality of the second protrusions are provided at intervals.

4. The fuel cell stack according to claim 2, characterized in that: The first protrusion is formed integrally with the end panel portion and is formed solid.

5. The fuel cell stack according to claim 2, characterized in that: In a state where the fuel cell stack is arranged such that the stacking direction is along the horizontal direction, the second protrusion is located below the power generation region. The second protrusion is formed with a through hole (186, 188) for discharging generated water generated by power generation of the plurality of power generation cells to the outside.

6. The fuel cell stack according to claim 1, characterized in that: A peripheral wall portion (152) is provided which protrudes from the outer edge of the end plate portion toward the side opposite to the cell stack.

7. The fuel cell stack according to claim 6, characterized in that: The support surfaces of the plurality of protrusions are located closer to the position of the cell stack than the protruding ends of the peripheral wall.

8. The fuel cell stack according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that: The end panel portion is a first end panel portion, The fuel cell stack includes a second end panel portion (138) which covers the single cell stack from a side opposite to the first end panel portion. A plurality of protrusions (179) are provided on a surface (138a) of the second end panel portion on the opposite side to the cell stack, wherein the plurality of protrusions have support surfaces (180) directed in the stacking direction. When viewed from the stacking direction, the plurality of protrusions of the second end plate portion are located at positions overlapping with the flow path sealing portion or at positions adjacent to the flow path sealing portion. The support surfaces of the plurality of protrusions of the second end panel portion are located on a single plane that is orthogonal to the stacking direction.

9. A fuel cell stack, comprising: a single cell stack, which is formed by stacking a plurality of power generation cells, the power generation cells having an electrolyte membrane-electrode structure formed by electrodes arranged on both sides of an electrolyte membrane, and a partition member arranged on both sides of the electrolyte membrane-electrode structure; and an end panel portion, which is arranged to cover the single cell stack from the stacking direction of the plurality of power generation cells, the single cell stack being applied with a compressive load along the stacking direction, in the fuel cell stack, The partition member has a partition body in the form of a metal plate, A flow path protrusion is formed integrally with the separator body so as to protrude toward the power generation region of the membrane-electrode assembly, the flow path protrusion forming a reaction gas flow path for supplying reaction gas to the power generation region. A plurality of protrusions are provided on a surface of the end plate portion opposite to the cell stack, wherein the plurality of protrusions have support surfaces directed in the stacking direction. When viewed from the stacking direction, the plurality of protrusions are located at positions overlapping with the power generation region or at positions adjacent to the power generation region. The supporting surfaces of the plurality of protrusions are located on a single plane that is orthogonal to the stacking direction.

10. The fuel cell stack according to claim 9, characterized in that: The power generation area is formed in a quadrilateral shape, The plurality of protrusions include a plurality of peripheral protrusions (178a to 178d) located at positions overlapping with central portions of respective side portions of the power generation region when viewed from the stacking direction.

11. The fuel cell stack according to claim 9, characterized in that: The power generation area is formed in a quadrilateral shape, The plurality of protrusions include an outer peripheral protrusion located at a position overlapping with each corner of the power generation region when viewed from the stacking direction.

12. The fuel cell stack according to claim 9, characterized in that: The plurality of protrusions include a central protrusion (177) located at a position overlapping with a central portion of the power generation region when viewed from the stacking direction.

13. The fuel cell stack according to claim 9, characterized in that: A plurality of ribs (170) extending in one direction are arranged separately from each other on the surface of the end panel portion. The plurality of protrusions are provided so as to span between the plurality of ribs.

14. The fuel cell stack according to claim 13, characterized in that: Ends of the plurality of ribs on the opposite side to the cell stack are located closer to the cell stack than the support surfaces of the plurality of protrusions.

15. The fuel cell stack according to any one of claims 9 to 14, characterized in that: The end panel portion is a first end panel portion, The fuel cell stack includes a second end panel portion that covers the single cell stack from a side opposite to the first end panel portion. A plurality of protrusions are provided on a surface of the second end plate portion opposite to the cell stack, wherein the plurality of protrusions have support surfaces directed in the stacking direction. When viewed from the stacking direction, the plurality of protrusions of the second end plate portion are located at positions overlapping with the power generation region or at positions adjacent to the power generation region. The support surfaces of the plurality of protrusions of the second end panel portion are located on a single plane that is orthogonal to the stacking direction.

16. A method for manufacturing a fuel cell stack, wherein the fuel cell stack is the fuel cell stack according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the method for manufacturing the fuel cell stack comprises: a placement step of placing the end panel portion in a manner such that the support surfaces of the plurality of protrusions are in contact with a pressure-bearing surface (302a) of a support tool (302) of a pressurizing device (300) in a state where the surface of the end panel portion faces downward; A stacking step of stacking the plurality of power generation cells on the end plate portion to form the cell stack; a pressing step of pressing the single cell stack toward the end plate portion by a pressing member (304) of the pressurizing device; as well as The arrangement step is to provide an end plate portion different from the end plate portion on the side of the cell stack opposite to the end plate portion in order to apply the compressive load to the cell stack.

17. The method for manufacturing a fuel cell stack according to claim 16, characterized in that: The fuel cell stack is the fuel cell stack according to claim 8, In the arrangement step, the second end panel portion is fixed while the support surfaces of the plurality of protrusions of the second end panel portion are pressed toward the first end panel portion.

18. The method for manufacturing a fuel cell stack according to claim 16, characterized in that: The fuel cell stack is the fuel cell stack according to claim 15, In the arrangement step, the second end panel portion is fixed while the support surfaces of the plurality of protrusions of the second end panel portion are pressed toward the first end panel portion.

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