Humidifier for fuel cell

Abstract

The present invention relates to a humidifier for a fuel cell, the humidifier including: a humidification module that humidifies dry gas supplied from the outside by using wet gas discharged from a fuel cell stack; an intermediate housing that includes a first cover combined with one end of the humidification module and a second cover combined with the other end of the humidification module, both ends of the humidification module being open; a first gas inlet and a first gas outlet formed on one side of the intermediate housing; and a hollow fiber membrane bundle accommodated in the intermediate housing in a longitudinal direction, wherein the hollow fiber membrane bundle includes a plurality of first hollow fiber membranes each independently including a first hollow, and centers of the first hollows are each offset toward the other side of the intermediate housing with respect to centers of the first hollow fiber membranes each.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a humidifier for a fuel cell, the humidifier being configured to supply humidifying gas to the fuel cell. Background Technology

[0002] The advantage of fuel cells is that, unlike conventional chemical batteries such as dry cells or storage batteries, they can generate electricity continuously as long as hydrogen and oxygen are supplied, and there is no heat loss. Therefore, the efficiency of fuel cells is about twice that of internal combustion engines.

[0003] Furthermore, fuel cells directly convert the chemical energy generated by combining hydrogen and oxygen into electrical energy, resulting in low pollutant emissions. Therefore, the advantages of fuel cells lie in their environmental friendliness and their ability to reduce resource depletion caused by increased energy consumption.

[0004] Based on the type of electrolyte used, these fuel cells can generally be classified as polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFC), phosphoric acid fuel cells (PAFC), molten carbonate fuel cells (MCFC), solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC), or alkaline fuel cells (AFC).

[0005] These fuel cells operate on essentially the same principle, but differ in the type of fuel used, operating temperature, catalyst, and electrolyte. Among these fuel cells, polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are known to be most advantageous for transportation systems and small stationary power generation equipment because they operate at lower temperatures and have higher output densities than other fuel cells, allowing for miniaturization.

[0006] One of the most important factors in improving the performance of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) is supplying a predetermined amount or more of moisture to the polymer electrolyte membrane or proton exchange membrane (PEM) of the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) to maintain its moisture content. This is because if the polymer electrolyte membrane or proton exchange membrane is dry, the power generation efficiency drops sharply.

[0007] The following methods are used as humidification methods for polymer electrolytic membranes or proton exchange membranes: 1) bubble humidification by filling a pressure vessel with water and passing the target gas through a diffuser to supply water; 2) direct injection method by calculating the amount of water to be supplied for the fuel cell reaction and directly supplying water to the gas flow pipe through a solenoid valve; and 3) membrane humidification method by supplying water to the gas fluidized bed using a polymer separation membrane.

[0008] Among these methods, membrane humidification uses a membrane configured to selectively deliver water vapor contained in the exhaust gas to the air supplied to the polymer electrolyte membrane and proton exchange membrane to humidify the polymer electrolyte membrane or proton exchange membrane. Its advantage is that it can reduce the weight and size of the humidifier.

[0009] When formed into modules, hollow fiber membranes with a large conveying area per unit volume are suitable for use as selective permeation membranes in membrane humidification. That is, when using hollow fiber membranes to manufacture humidifiers, the large contact area of ​​the hollow fiber membrane allows for high integration, thereby enabling adequate humidification of fuel cells even at small capacities. This allows the use of inexpensive materials and the collection of moisture and heat contained in the exhaust gas emitted by the fuel cell at high temperatures, which can then be reused by the humidifier.

[0010] Figure 1 This is a schematic exploded perspective view of a conventional humidifier used in fuel cells. Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a conventional hollow fiber membrane.

[0011] like Figure 1 As shown, a conventional membrane humidification humidifier 100 includes: a humidification module 110 in which moisture is exchanged between air supplied from the outside and exhaust gas discharged from a fuel cell stack (not shown); and a cover 120, which is coupled to opposite ends of the humidification module 110.

[0012] One of the covers 120 delivers externally supplied air to the humidification module 110, while the other cover delivers humidified air via the humidification module 110 to the fuel cell stack.

[0013] The humidification module 110 includes: an intermediate housing 111 having an exhaust gas inlet 111a and an exhaust gas outlet 111b; and a plurality of hollow fiber membranes 112 within the intermediate housing 111. The opposite ends of the bundle of hollow fiber membranes 112 are encapsulated in a fixing layer 113. Typically, each fixing layer 113 is formed using a casting-cured liquid polymer, such as liquid polyurethane resin. The fixing layer 113, encapsulating the ends of the hollow fiber membranes 112, and a resin layer 114 disposed between the fixing layer 113 and the intermediate housing 111, isolate the internal space of the cover 120 from the internal space of the intermediate housing 111. Similar to the fixing layer 113, each resin layer 114 is typically formed using a casting-cured liquid polymer, such as liquid polyurethane resin.

[0014] Externally supplied air flows along the hollow core of the hollow fiber membrane 112. Exhaust gas introduced into the intermediate housing 111 through exhaust gas inlet 111a contacts the outer surface of the hollow fiber membrane 112 and is then discharged from the intermediate housing 111 through exhaust gas outlet 111b. When the exhaust gas contacts the outer surface of the hollow fiber membrane 112, the moisture contained in the exhaust gas is transferred through the hollow fiber membrane 112 to humidify the air flowing along the hollow core of the membrane.

[0015] Here, as Figure 2 As shown, each hollow fiber membrane 112 is configured such that a hollow structure is formed at its center, thereby achieving a uniform membrane thickness 112b. The membrane thickness 112b refers to the length between the inner surface 112c and the outer surface 112d of the hollow fiber membrane 112. If the membrane thickness 112b of each hollow fiber membrane 112 is too large, the humidification performance of the hollow fiber membrane 112 is reduced. On the other hand, if the membrane thickness 112b of each hollow fiber membrane 112 is too small, the hollow fiber membrane 112 may be partially damaged or destroyed due to the pressure of the exhaust gas introduced into the intermediate housing 111. Summary of the Invention

[0016] Technical issues

[0017] This disclosure is made in view of the above-mentioned problems. One object of this disclosure is to provide a humidifier for fuel cells that can ensure both the humidification performance and the durability of the hollow fiber membrane.

[0018] Technical solution

[0019] To achieve the above objectives, this disclosure may include the following construction.

[0020] A humidifier for a fuel cell according to this disclosure may include: a humidification module configured to humidify dry gas supplied from the outside using wet gas discharged from a fuel cell stack; a first cover coupled to one end of the humidification module; and a second cover coupled to the other end of the humidification module.

[0021] In the humidifier for a fuel cell according to the present disclosure, the humidification module may include: an intermediate housing open at its opposite ends; a first air inlet and a first air outlet formed on one side of the intermediate housing; and a hollow fiber membrane bundle longitudinally housed within the intermediate housing. The hollow fiber membrane bundle may include a plurality of first hollow fiber membranes. Each of the first hollow fiber membranes may independently include a first hollow core. The center of the first hollow core may be offset from the center of the first hollow fiber membrane, facing the opposite side of the intermediate housing.

[0022] In a humidifier for a fuel cell according to the present disclosure, the humidification module may include: an intermediate housing open at its opposite ends; a first air inlet and a first air outlet formed on one side of the intermediate housing; and at least one cartridge disposed within the intermediate housing. The cartridge may include an inner housing having openings formed at its two ends, and a hollow fiber membrane bundle housed within the inner housing. The inner housing may have a second air inlet and a second air outlet on one side. The hollow fiber membrane bundle may include a plurality of first hollow fiber membranes. Each of the first hollow fiber membranes may independently comprise a first hollow section. The center of the first hollow section may be offset from the center of the first hollow fiber membrane, facing the opposite side of the inner housing.

[0023] Beneficial effects

[0024] According to this disclosure, the following effects can be achieved.

[0025] Implementing this disclosure enables the use of hollow fiber membranes with eccentric hollow structures to ensure both humidification performance and durability. Therefore, in this disclosure, damage or destruction to the hollow fiber membrane due to gas pressure can be reduced, and improved humidification performance can be achieved. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic exploded perspective view of a conventional humidifier used for fuel cells.

[0027] Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a conventional hollow fiber membrane.

[0028] Figure 3 This is a schematic exploded perspective view of a humidifier for fuel cells according to this disclosure.

[0029] Figure 4 Humidifier for fuel cells according to this disclosure Figure 3 A schematic anatomical view taken from line II.

[0030] Figure 5 Humidifier for fuel cells according to this disclosure Figure 3 A schematic combined sectional view taken from line II.

[0031] Figure 6 This is a schematic enlarged side sectional view showing a cross-section of a first hollow fiber membrane in a humidifier for a fuel cell according to the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 7 This is a schematic enlarged side sectional view showing a cross-section of a second hollow fiber membrane in a humidifier for a fuel cell according to the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 8 This is a schematic plan view of the cylinder in a humidifier for a fuel cell according to the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 9 The cylinder in the humidifier for fuel cells according to this disclosure is along... Figure 8 A schematic side sectional view taken from line II-II.

[0035] Figure 10 This is a schematic bottom view of the cylinder in a humidifier for a fuel cell according to the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 11 The cylinder in the humidifier for fuel cells according to this disclosure is along... Figure 10 A schematic side sectional view taken from line III-III.

[0037] Figure 12 This is a schematic exploded perspective view showing one embodiment in which two cylinders are combined with an intermediate shell in a humidifier for a fuel cell according to the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 13 This is a schematic exploded perspective view showing one embodiment in which three cylinders are combined with an intermediate shell in a humidifier for a fuel cell according to the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0039] Hereinafter, embodiments of a humidifier for a fuel cell according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 6 and Figure 7 The first hollow fiber membrane and the second hollow fiber membrane are shown respectively along... Figure 8 The side sectional view taken from line II-II. Figure 9 and Figure 11 The hollow fiber membrane is omitted, and the hollow fiber membrane can be placed in the part shaded with dots.

[0040] Reference Figures 3 to 5 The humidifier 1 for a fuel cell according to this disclosure is configured to humidify dry gas supplied from the outside using wet gas discharged from a fuel cell stack (not shown). The dry gas may be fuel gas or air. The dry gas can be humidified by the wet gas and then supplied to the fuel cell stack. The humidifier 1 for a fuel cell according to this disclosure includes: a humidification module 2 configured to humidify the dry gas; a first cover 3 coupled to one end of the humidification module 2; and a second cover 4 coupled to the other end of the humidification module 2.

[0041] Reference Figures 3 to 5The humidification module 2 humidifies the dry gas supplied from the outside. A first cover 3 can be attached to one end of the humidification module 2. A second cover 4 can be attached to the other end of the humidification module 2. The first cover 3 can deliver dry gas to the humidification module 2. In this case, the second cover 4 can deliver the dry gas humidified by the humidified gas in the humidification module 2 to the fuel cell stack. The first cover 3 can deliver humidified gas to the humidification module 2. In this case, after humidifying the dry gas in the humidification module 2, the second cover 4 can discharge the humidified gas to the outside.

[0042] The humidification module 2 includes an intermediate shell 21 and a hollow fiber membrane bundle 22.

[0043] The intermediate housing 21 is configured to accommodate the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22. The hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 can be disposed within the intermediate housing 21. The opposite ends of the intermediate housing 21 are open. In this case, a receiving hole 211 can be formed in the intermediate housing 21. The receiving hole 211 can be formed to extend through the intermediate housing 21 along a first axial direction (X-axis direction). The first axial direction (X-axis direction) is an axial direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the intermediate housing 21.

[0044] A first air inlet 212 and a first air outlet 213 can be formed on one side 21a of the intermediate housing 21.

[0045] The first air inlet 212 allows humid or dry gas to be introduced into the intermediate housing 21. The first air outlet 213 allows humid or dry gas to be discharged from the intermediate housing 21. The first air inlet 212 and the first air outlet 213 can be spaced apart from each other in the first axial direction (X-axis direction). The first air inlet 212, the first air outlet 213 and the intermediate housing 21 can be integrally formed.

[0046] When humid gas flows through the first inlet 212 and the first outlet 213, the humid gas can be introduced into the intermediate housing 21 through the first inlet 212 and can contact the outer surface of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22. During this process, the moisture contained in the humid gas can be transferred through the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22, thereby humidifying the dry gas flowing along the hollow of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22. The humidified dry gas can be discharged from the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 and then supplied to the fuel cell stack. After humidification, the humid gas can be discharged from the intermediate housing 21 through the first outlet 213. The first inlet 212 can be connected to the fuel cell stack to supply humid gas to it. In this case, the humid gas can be exhaust gas discharged from the fuel cell stack.

[0047] When dry gas flows through the first inlet 212 and the first outlet 213, it can be introduced into the intermediate housing 21 through the first inlet 212 and come into contact with the outer surface of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22. During this process, moisture in the wet gas flowing along the hollow of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 can be transferred through it, thereby humidifying the dry gas introduced into the intermediate housing 21. The humidified dry gas can then be discharged from the intermediate housing 21 through the first outlet 213 and supplied to the fuel cell stack. After humidification, the wet gas can be discharged from the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 and then discharged to the outside through the second cover 4. The first cover 3 can be connected to the fuel cell stack to supply wet gas to it. In this case, the wet gas can be exhaust gas discharged from the fuel cell stack.

[0048] Hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 is housed in intermediate shell 21. Hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 may include multiple hollow fiber membranes. Hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 may be housed in intermediate shell 21 along the longitudinal direction of intermediate shell 21.

[0049] Reference Figures 3 to 5 The first cover 3 is connected to one end of the humidification module 2. The space between the first cover 3 and the humidification module 2 can be sealed by a resin layer.

[0050] Reference Figures 3 to 5 The second cover 4 is attached to the other end of the humidification module 2. The second cover 4 can be attached to the other end of the humidification module 2 so as to be spaced apart from the first cover 3 in the first axial direction (X-axis direction). The space between the second cover 4 and the humidification module 2 can be sealed by a resin layer.

[0051] Here, the humidifier 1 for fuel cells according to this disclosure can be implemented to improve humidification performance by means of hollow fiber membrane bundles 22.

[0052] Reference Figures 3 to 6 The hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 may include a first hollow fiber membrane 22a.

[0053] The first hollow fiber membrane 22a may include a first hollow section 221a. The first hollow section 221a may be formed to extend longitudinally through the first hollow fiber membrane 22a. The center C11 of the first hollow section 221a is offset from the center C12 of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a. Therefore, the membrane thickness of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a may be non-uniform in the thickness direction of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a. The membrane thickness of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a may refer to the length between the inner surface of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a facing the first hollow section 221a and the outer surface of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a. The center C11 of the first hollow section 221a may refer to a point equidistant from the entire inner surface of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a. The center C12 of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a may refer to a point equidistant from the entire outer surface of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a.

[0054] Because the center C11 of the first hollow membrane 221a is offset, the membrane thickness of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a is non-uniform. The first hollow fiber membrane 22a is implemented such that durability is enhanced through its relatively large membrane thickness portion and humidification performance is improved through its relatively small membrane thickness portion. Therefore, the humidifier 1 for a fuel cell according to the present disclosure is implemented using the first hollow fiber membrane 22a to ensure both humidification performance and durability. The hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 may include a plurality of first hollow fiber membranes 22a. In this case, each first hollow fiber membrane 22a may independently include the first hollow membrane 221a. The humidifier 1 for a fuel cell according to the present disclosure may be implemented with a structure in which the membrane thickness of all the hollow fiber membranes constituting the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 is non-uniform, as in the first hollow fiber membrane 22a. The humidifier 1 for a fuel cell according to the present disclosure may be implemented with a structure in which the membrane thickness of a portion of the hollow fiber membrane constituting the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 is non-uniform, as in the first hollow fiber membrane 22a.

[0055] The center C11 of the first hollow 221a can face the other side 21b of the intermediate shell 21 (e.g.) Figure 3(As shown in the diagram) and deviates from the center C12 of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a. The other side 21b of the intermediate shell 21 is the side opposite to one side 21a of the intermediate shell 21. Since the center C11 of the first hollow 221a can be deviated from the center C12 of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a by facing the other side 21b of the intermediate shell 21, the side 22a′ of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a with a relatively large membrane thickness can be set as the side 21a facing the intermediate shell 21. In this configuration, the other side 22a″ of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a, having a relatively small membrane thickness, can be positioned facing the other side 21b of the intermediate housing 21. Therefore, a thicker portion of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a can be provided on the side of the first air inlet 212. Consequently, in the humidifier 1 for a fuel cell according to the present disclosure, the risk of damage or destruction of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a due to the pressure of the humid or dry gas introduced through the first air inlet 212 can be reduced. Furthermore, since the other side 22a″ of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a is formed to be thinner than one side 22a′ of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a, a thinner portion of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a can be provided on the inner side of the intermediate housing 21. Therefore, in the humidifier 1 for a fuel cell according to the present disclosure, humidification performance can be improved by utilizing the humid gas inside the intermediate housing 21. In this configuration, the pressure of the humid or dry gas introduced through the first inlet 212 is not directly applied to the other side 22a″ of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a. Therefore, the humidifier 1 for a fuel cell according to this disclosure can be implemented using the first hollow fiber membrane 22a to ensure both humidification performance and durability. Compared to the other side 22a″ of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a, one side 22a′ of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a can be configured to be biased towards a first direction (the direction indicated by arrow FD). In this configuration, the center C11 of the first hollow membrane 22a can be configured to be spaced apart from the center C12 of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a in a second direction (the direction indicated by arrow SD). The second direction (the direction indicated by arrow SD) is opposite to the first direction (the direction indicated by arrow FD).

[0056] The difference between the maximum and minimum membrane thickness of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a can be from 10 μm to 100 μm. One side 22a′ of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a can be the portion of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a with the maximum thickness. The other side 22a″ of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a can be the portion of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a with the minimum thickness. In the following description, the portion of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a with the maximum thickness is defined as the first membrane thickness T11 of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a, and the portion of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a with the minimum thickness is defined as the second membrane thickness T12 of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a.

[0057] If the difference between the second membrane thickness T12 and the first membrane thickness T11 of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a is less than 10 μm, it is difficult to enhance durability through the relatively large membrane thickness portion and improve humidification performance through the relatively small membrane thickness portion. If the difference between the second membrane thickness T12 and the first membrane thickness T11 of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a exceeds 100 μm, the durability of the relatively small membrane thickness portion will be excessively weakened, and therefore, the risk of damage or failure of the relatively small membrane thickness portion is high. Considering this, the first hollow fiber membrane 22a can be implemented such that the difference between the second membrane thickness T12 and the first membrane thickness T11 is 10 μm to 100 μm, thereby enabling enhanced durability through the relatively large membrane thickness portion and improved humidification performance through the relatively small membrane thickness portion.

[0058] The minimum membrane thickness of the first hollow fiber membrane can be 60 μm or more. In this case, the second membrane thickness T12 of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a can be 60 μm or more. If the second membrane thickness T12 of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a is less than 60 μm, the humidification performance can be further improved by the portion of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a having the second membrane thickness T12; however, the durability of the portion having the second membrane thickness T12 will be excessively weakened, thus the risk of the portion having the second membrane thickness being damaged or destroyed is high. Considering this, the first hollow fiber membrane 22a can be implemented such that the second membrane thickness T12 is 60 μm or more, thereby improving the humidification performance by the portion having the second membrane thickness T12, and can be implemented such that the portion having the second membrane thickness T12 exhibits sufficient durability to avoid being easily damaged or destroyed.

[0059] The first hollow fiber membrane 22a may include a first hollow fiber body 222a.

[0060] The first hollow fiber body 222a is housed within the intermediate shell 21. The first hollow fiber body 222a may correspond to the portion that defines the overall external appearance of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a. The first hollow fiber body 222a may be formed as a cylinder having a long length in its longitudinal direction. When the first hollow fiber membrane 22a is housed within the intermediate shell 21, the longitudinal direction of the first hollow fiber body 222a may be parallel to the first axial direction (X-axis direction).

[0061] The first hollow section 221a can be formed to extend longitudinally through the first hollow fiber body 222a. Dry gas can be humidified by moist gas outside the first hollow fiber body 222a while flowing along the first hollow section 221a. Moist gas can humidify dry gas outside the first hollow fiber body 222a while flowing along the first hollow section 221a. The first hollow section 221a can be formed as a cylinder with a long longitudinal length. When the first hollow fiber membrane 22a is housed in the intermediate shell 21, the longitudinal direction of the first hollow section 221a can be parallel to the first axial direction (X-axis direction).

[0062] The center C11 of the first hollow fiber 221a can be spaced apart from the center of the first hollow fiber body 222a to be off-center. The center of the first hollow fiber body 222a can be located at the same position as the center C12 of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a. As described above, since the first hollow fiber 221a of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a is formed off-center, its membrane thickness can be non-uniform. Therefore, in the humidifier 1 for a fuel cell according to the present disclosure, the membrane thickness can be non-uniform simply by forming the first hollow fiber 221a off-center, thereby improving the ease of manufacturing the first hollow fiber membrane 22a to have a non-uniform membrane thickness.

[0063] The center C11 of the first hollow fiber 221a can be positioned spaced apart from the center of the first hollow fiber body 222a in the second direction (indicated by arrow SD). Therefore, the first hollow fiber 221a can be formed offset from the center in the second direction (indicated by arrow SD). In this case, the first hollow fiber 221a can be formed offset from the center towards the other side 21b of the intermediate shell 21. Therefore, the side 22a′ of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a with the maximum membrane thickness can be positioned as the side 21a facing the intermediate shell 21. The other side 22a″ of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a with the minimum membrane thickness can be positioned as the other side 21b facing the intermediate shell 21.

[0064] Reference Figures 3 to 7 The hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 may include a second hollow fiber membrane 22b.

[0065] The second hollow fiber membrane 22b may include a second hollow core 221b. The second hollow core 221b may be formed to extend longitudinally through the second hollow fiber membrane 22b. The center C21 of the second hollow core 221b may be located at the same position as the center C22 of the second hollow fiber membrane 22b. Therefore, the membrane thickness of the second hollow fiber membrane 22b may be uniform in the thickness direction of the second hollow fiber membrane 22b. The membrane thickness of the second hollow fiber membrane 22b may refer to the length between the inner surface of the second hollow fiber membrane 22b facing the second hollow core 221b and the outer surface of the second hollow fiber membrane 22b. Because the membrane thickness of the second hollow fiber membrane 22b is uniform, the second hollow fiber membrane 22b is implemented to exhibit overall uniform durability and uniform humidification performance. The center C21 of the second hollow core 221b may refer to a point equidistant from the entire inner surface of the second hollow fiber membrane 22b. The center C22 of the second hollow fiber membrane 22b can refer to a point equidistant from the entire outer surface of the second hollow fiber membrane 22b. The hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 can include multiple second hollow fiber membranes 22b. In this case, each second hollow fiber membrane 22b can independently include a second hollow 221b.

[0066] The second hollow fiber membrane 22b can be positioned closer to one side 21a of the intermediate shell 21 than the first hollow fiber membrane 22a. Therefore, the second hollow fiber membrane 22b can be positioned closer to the first air inlet 212 than the first hollow fiber membrane 22a. In this case, the second hollow fiber membrane 22b can be positioned between the first hollow fiber membrane 22 and the first air inlet 212. Therefore, the humidifier 1 for a fuel cell according to this disclosure can achieve the following operation and effects.

[0067] First, when all the hollow fiber membranes constituting the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 are implemented with a structure where their respective membrane thicknesses are non-uniform (as in the first hollow fiber membrane 22a), the relatively larger membrane thickness portion of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a must be positioned in the region adjacent to the first air inlet 212 so as to face the first air inlet 212. This is because if the relatively smaller membrane thickness portion is positioned facing the first air inlet 212, the first hollow fiber membrane 22a is at high risk of being damaged or destroyed by the pressure of the humid or dry gas introduced through the first air inlet 212. Therefore, the orientation of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a in the region adjacent to the first air inlet 212 must be accurately aligned, which increases the time required to house the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 within the intermediate housing 21.

[0068] Secondly, when a portion of the hollow fiber membrane constituting the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 is implemented with a structure where each membrane thickness is non-uniform (as in the first hollow fiber membrane 22a), and a portion of the hollow fiber membrane constituting the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 is implemented with a structure where each membrane thickness is uniform (as in the second hollow fiber membrane 22b), then the second hollow fiber membrane 22b can be disposed in a region adjacent to the first air inlet 212, and the first hollow fiber membrane 22a can be disposed in a region spaced apart from the first air inlet 212. Therefore, the second hollow fiber membrane 22b can be implemented to exhibit overall uniform durability, and thus, the second hollow fiber membrane can be housed within the intermediate housing 21, regardless of its orientation. Furthermore, since the first hollow fiber membrane 22a is disposed in a region spaced apart from the first air inlet 212, the first hollow fiber membrane is not directly affected by the pressure of the humid or dry gas introduced through the first air inlet 212. Therefore, the first hollow fiber membrane 22a can also be housed in the intermediate housing 21, regardless of its orientation. Thus, it is not necessary to precisely align the orientations of all the second hollow fiber membranes 22b and the first hollow fiber membrane 22a, thereby shortening the time required to house the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 in the intermediate housing 21 and improving the ease of housing the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 in the intermediate housing 21.

[0069] One side 22b′ of the second hollow fiber membrane 22b can be configured to face the first air inlet 212. The other side 22b′ of the second hollow fiber membrane 22b can be defined as the first membrane thickness T21 (e.g., ...). Figure 7 (As shown in the diagram). The first membrane thickness T21 of the second hollow fiber membrane can refer to the length between the inner and outer surfaces of the second hollow fiber membrane 22b at one side 22b′. The other side 22b″ of the second hollow fiber membrane 22b can be defined as the second membrane thickness T22 (as shown in the diagram). Figure 7 (As shown in the diagram). The second membrane thickness T22 of the second hollow fiber membrane 22b can refer to the length between the inner and outer surfaces of the second hollow fiber membrane 22b at its other side 22b″. The other side 22b″ of the second hollow fiber membrane 22b and one side 22b′ of the second hollow fiber membrane 22b can be disposed on opposite sides. The first membrane thickness T21 of the second hollow fiber membrane 22b and the second membrane thickness T22 of the second hollow fiber membrane 22b can be equal to each other.

[0070] The second hollow fiber membrane 22b may include a second hollow fiber body 222b.

[0071] The second hollow fiber body 222b is housed within the intermediate shell 21. The second hollow fiber body 222b may correspond to the portion that defines the overall external appearance of the second hollow fiber membrane 22b. The second hollow fiber body 222b may be formed as a cylinder having a long length in its longitudinal direction. When the second hollow fiber membrane 22b is housed within the intermediate shell 21, the longitudinal direction of the second hollow fiber body 222b may be parallel to the first axial direction (X-axis direction).

[0072] The second hollow core 221b can be formed to extend longitudinally through the second hollow fiber body 222b. Dry gas can be humidified by moist gas outside the second hollow fiber body 222b while flowing along the second hollow core 221b. Moist gas can humidify dry gas outside the second hollow fiber body 222b while flowing along the second hollow core 221b. The second hollow core 221b can be formed as a cylinder with a long longitudinal length. When the second hollow fiber membrane 22b is housed in the intermediate shell 21, the longitudinal direction of the second hollow core 221b can be parallel to the first axial direction (X-axis direction).

[0073] The center C21 of the second hollow fiber 221b and the center of the second hollow fiber body 222b can be located at the same position. The center of the second hollow fiber body 222b can refer to a point equidistant from the entire outer surface of the second hollow fiber membrane 22b. As described above, since the center C21 of the second hollow fiber 221b and the center of the second hollow fiber body 222b are located at the same position, the membrane thickness of the second hollow fiber membrane 22b can be uniform.

[0074] Here, the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 can be directly housed in the intermediate shell 21, or it can be housed in the intermediate shell 21 by means of at least one cylinder 23 included in the humidification module 2.

[0075] Reference Figures 3 to 9 The cylindrical body 23 can be disposed within the intermediate shell 21. The hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 can be integrated with the cylindrical body 23 for modularity. Therefore, the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 can be accommodated within the intermediate shell 21 by integrating the cylindrical body 23 with the intermediate shell 21. Thus, in the humidifier 1 for a fuel cell according to this disclosure, the ease of installation, separation, and replacement of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 can be improved.

[0076] The cylindrical body 23 may include an inner shell 231.

[0077] The inner shell 231 has an opening formed at its end, and a hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 is housed within the inner shell. The hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 can be disposed within the inner shell 231 for modularity. The hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 may comprise a polymer membrane made of polysulfone resin, polyethersulfone resin, sulfonated polysulfone resin, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) resin, polyacrylonitrile (PAN) resin, polyimide resin, polyamide-imide resin, polyesterimide resin, or mixtures of two or more thereof.

[0078] The cylinder 23 may include fixed layers 232 and 233.

[0079] The ends of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 are encapsulated in fixing layers 232 and 233, which seal the opening of the inner shell 231. One end of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 can be fixed by fixing layer 232, and the other end of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 can be fixed by fixing layer 233. One end and the other end of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 refer to the two ends disposed on opposite sides in the first axial direction (X-axis direction). Fixing layers 232 and 233 are each formed by a casting process using a hardened liquid resin such as liquid polyurethane resin. Fixing layers 232 and 233 can fix the ends of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 to the inner shell 231.

[0080] The fixing layers 232 and 233 can be formed to be hollow without blocking the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22. Therefore, dry or wet gas supplied from the outside can be supplied to the hollow part of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 without being disturbed by the fixing layers 232 and 233.

[0081] The cylinder 23 may include a second air inlet 234 and a second air outlet 235.

[0082] A second air inlet 234 is formed in the inner shell 231. The second air inlet 234 can be formed on one side of the inner shell 231. One side of the inner shell 231 and one side 21a of the intermediate shell 21 can be configured to face different directions. Alternatively, one side of the inner shell 231 and one side 21a of the intermediate shell 21 can be configured to face the same direction. The second air inlet 234 allows humid or dry gas to enter the inner shell 231. The second air inlet 234 can be formed to pass through the inner shell 231. Figure 8 As shown, the second air inlet 234 can be implemented as a plurality of through holes formed through the inner housing 231. In this case, the second air inlet 234 may include a plurality of windows 234a formed through different portions of the inner housing 231. The windows 234a may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a first axial direction (X-axis direction) and a second axial direction (Y-axis direction) to form a matrix. The second axial direction (Y-axis direction) is an axial direction perpendicular to the first axial direction (X-axis direction). Although not shown, the second air inlet 234 can also be implemented as a single through hole formed through the inner housing 231.

[0083] A second vent 235 is formed within the inner shell 231. The second vent 235 may be formed on one side of the inner shell 231. The second vent 235 allows humid or dry gas to exit from the inner shell 231. The second vent 235 may be formed to pass through the inner shell 231. Figure 8 As shown, the second vent 235 can be implemented as a plurality of through holes formed through the inner shell 231. In this case, the second vent 235 may include a plurality of windows 235a formed through different portions of the inner shell 231. The windows 235a may be spaced apart from each other in a first axial direction (X-axis direction) and a second axial direction (Y-axis direction) to form a matrix. Although not shown, the second vent 235 can also be implemented as a single through hole formed through the inner shell 231.

[0084] The second air outlet 235 and the second air inlet 234 can be spaced apart from each other in the first axial direction (X-axis direction). Therefore, humid gas can be supplied to the space between the inner surface of the intermediate shell 21 and the outer surface of the cylinder 23 through the first air inlet 212, and can be supplied to the inner shell 231 through the second air inlet 234. It can contact the outer surface of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 and humidify the dry gas flowing along the hollow hollow of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22. It can be discharged to the space between the inner surface of the intermediate shell 21 and the outer surface of the cylinder 23 through the second air outlet 235, and can be discharged from the intermediate shell 21 through the first air outlet 213. Meanwhile, dry gas can be supplied through the first air inlet 212 to the space between the inner surface of the intermediate shell 21 and the outer surface of the cylinder 23, and can be supplied to the inner shell 231 through the second air inlet 234. It can contact the outer surface of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22, be humidified by the wet gas flowing along the hollow of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22, and be discharged through the second air outlet 235 to the space between the inner surface of the intermediate shell 21 and the outer surface of the cylinder 23. It can also be discharged from the intermediate shell 21 through the first air outlet 213.

[0085] The humidification module 2 may include multiple packaging components 24 and 24'.

[0086] Packaging components 24 and 24' seal between the cylinder 23 and the intermediate shell 21 to prevent direct mixing between dry and wet gases. Packaging components 24 and 24' can be inserted between the cylinder 23 and the intermediate shell 21. In this case, the cylinder 23 can be inserted through through-holes 24a and 24a' formed in the packaging components 24 and 24'. Packaging components 24 and 24' can be respectively disposed at opposite ends of the cylinder 23 in the first axial direction (X-axis direction). Although not shown, resin layers can be formed on opposite sides of the cylinder 23 instead of packaging components 24 and 24'. Each resin layer can be formed by curing a liquid polymer, such as liquid polyurethane resin, using a casting method. The space between the first cap 3 and the cylinder 23 is isolated from the space between the cylinder 23 and the intermediate shell 21 in a sealed state by the packaging component 24 or the resin layer. The space between the second cap 4 and the cylinder 23 is isolated from the space between the cylinder 23 and the intermediate shell 21 in a sealed state by the packaging component 24' or the resin layer.

[0087] Here, a first hollow fiber membrane 22a can be disposed within the inner shell 231. The center C11 of the first hollow membrane 221a can be offset from the center C12 of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a, facing the other side of the inner shell 231. In this case, one side 22a′ of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a can be positioned facing the inner shell 231. Therefore, the portion of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a with a relatively large membrane thickness can be positioned facing the inner shell 231, and the portion of the first hollow fiber membrane with a relatively small membrane thickness can be positioned facing the other side of the inner shell 231. Multiple first hollow fiber membranes 22a can be disposed within the inner shell 231.

[0088] Here, the second hollow fiber membrane 22b can be disposed within the inner shell 231. The center C21 of the second hollow membrane 221b can be located at the same position as the center C22 of the second hollow fiber membrane 22b. Multiple second hollow fiber membranes 22b can be disposed within the inner shell 231.

[0089] The second hollow fiber membrane 22b can be positioned closer to the inner shell 231 than the first hollow fiber membrane 22a. Therefore, the second hollow fiber membrane 22b can be positioned closer to the second air inlet 234 than the first hollow fiber membrane 22a. In this case, compared to the first hollow fiber membrane 22a, the second hollow fiber membrane 22b can be positioned biased towards a first direction (indicated by arrow FD), and compared to the second hollow fiber membrane 22b, the first hollow fiber membrane 22a can be positioned biased towards a second direction (indicated by arrow SD). Therefore, the humidifier 1 for a fuel cell according to this disclosure can achieve the following operation and effects.

[0090] First, when all the hollow fiber membranes constituting the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 are implemented with a structure in which their respective membrane thicknesses are non-uniform (as in the first hollow fiber membrane 22a), the relatively large membrane thickness portions of each first hollow fiber membrane 22a must be located in the first region 231a adjacent to the second air inlet 234 (as in the case of the second air inlet 234). Figure 9 (As shown) so that it faces the second air inlet 234. The reason is that if a portion of the relatively small membrane thickness is positioned facing the second air inlet 234, the first hollow fiber membrane 22a is at high risk of being damaged or destroyed by the pressure of the humid or dry gas introduced through the second air inlet 234. Therefore, in the region adjacent to the second air inlet 234, the orientation of the first hollow fiber membrane 22a must be accurately aligned, which increases the time required to set the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 in the intermediate housing 231.

[0091] Secondly, when a portion of the hollow fiber membrane constituting the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 is implemented with a non-uniform membrane thickness (as in the first hollow fiber membrane 22a), and a portion of the hollow fiber membrane constituting the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 is implemented with a uniform membrane thickness (as in the second hollow fiber membrane 22b), the second hollow fiber membrane 22b can be disposed in a first region 231a adjacent to the second air inlet 234, and the first hollow fiber membrane 22a can be disposed in a second region 231b spaced apart from the second air inlet 234 (as in the second hollow fiber membrane 22b). Figure 9 (As shown). Therefore, the second hollow fiber membrane 22b can be configured to exhibit uniform overall durability, and thus, the second hollow fiber membrane can be integrated with the interior of the inner shell 231 regardless of its orientation. Furthermore, since the first hollow fiber membrane 22a is disposed in the second region 231b spaced apart from the second air inlet 234, the first hollow fiber membrane is not directly affected by the pressure of the humid or dry gas introduced through the second air inlet 234. Therefore, the first hollow fiber membrane 22a can also be disposed within the inner shell 231, regardless of its orientation. Therefore, it is not necessary to accurately align the orientations of all the second hollow fiber membranes 22b and the first hollow fiber membrane 22a, thereby shortening the time required to dispose of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 within the inner shell 231 and improving the ease of disposing of the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 within the inner shell 231.

[0092] Figure 9The first region 231a and the second region 231b are shown to be implemented with nearly the same size; however, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the first region 231a and the second region 231b can be implemented with different sizes. For example, when the pressure of the humid or dry gas introduced through the second inlet 234 is high, the first region 231a can be implemented with a larger size than the second region 231b. Therefore, in the humidifier 1 for a fuel cell according to the present disclosure, the number of second hollow fiber membranes 22b disposed in the first region 231a is increased, thereby reducing damage or destruction to the hollow fiber membrane bundles 22 due to the pressure of the humid or dry gas introduced through the second inlet 234. For example, when the pressure of the humid or dry gas introduced through the second inlet 234 is low, the first region 231a can be implemented with a smaller size than the second region 231b. Therefore, in the humidifier 1 for a fuel cell according to the present disclosure, the number of second hollow fiber membranes 22b disposed in the first region 231a can be reduced, and at the same time, the number of first hollow fiber membranes 22a disposed in the second region 231b can be increased, thereby reducing damage or destruction to the hollow fiber membrane bundles 22 due to the pressure of the humid or dry gas introduced through the second air inlet 234, and improving humidification performance.

[0093] Reference Figures 3 to 12 The cylinder 23 may include a third air inlet 236 and a third air outlet 237.

[0094] A third air inlet 236 is formed in the inner shell 231. The third air inlet 236 may also be formed on the other side of the inner shell 231. The third air inlet 236 and the second air outlet 235 may be positioned facing each other. The third air inlet 236 allows either humid or dry gas to enter the inner shell 231. The third air inlet 236 may be formed to pass through the inner shell 231. Figure 10 As shown, the third air inlet 236 can be implemented as a plurality of through holes formed through the inner housing 231. In this case, the third air inlet 236 may include a plurality of windows 236a formed through different portions of the inner housing 231. The windows 236a may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a first axial direction (X-axis direction) and a second axial direction (Y-axis direction) to form a matrix. The second axial direction (Y-axis direction) is an axial direction perpendicular to the first axial direction (X-axis direction). Although not shown, the third air inlet 236 can also be implemented as a single through hole formed through the inner housing 231.

[0095] A third vent 237 is formed within the inner shell 231. The third vent 237 may also be formed on the other side of the inner shell 231. The third vent 237 and the second inlet 234 may be positioned facing each other. The third vent 237 allows humid or dry gas to exit through it from the inner shell 231. The third vent 237 may be formed to pass through the inner shell 231. Figure 10 As shown, the third air outlet 237 can be implemented as multiple through holes formed through the inner shell 231. In this case, the third air outlet 237 may include multiple windows 237a formed through different portions of the inner shell 231. The windows 237a can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the first axial direction (X-axis direction) and the second axial direction (Y-axis direction) to form a matrix. Although not shown, the third air outlet 237 can also be implemented as a single through hole formed through the inner shell 231. The third air outlet 237 and the third air inlet 236 can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the first axial direction (X-axis direction).

[0096] The second hollow fiber membrane 22b can be positioned closer to one side and the other side of the inner shell 231 than the first hollow fiber membrane 22a. Therefore, the second hollow fiber membrane 22b can be positioned closer to the second air inlet 234 and the third air inlet 236 than the first hollow fiber membrane 22a. In this case, the first hollow fiber membrane 22a can be positioned between the second hollow fiber membrane 22b positioned adjacent to one side of the inner shell 231 and the second hollow fiber membrane 22b positioned adjacent to the other side of the inner shell 231. Therefore, the second hollow fiber membrane 22b can be positioned in each of the first region 231a adjacent to the second air inlet 234 and the third region 231c adjacent to the third air inlet 236. Figure 11 As shown in the diagram, the first hollow fiber membrane 22a can be disposed in a second region 231b spaced apart from each of the second air inlet 234 and the third air inlet 236. Therefore, the first hollow fiber membrane 22a can be disposed at a location where the first hollow fiber membrane is not directly affected by the pressure of the humid or dry gas introduced through each of the second air inlets 234 and the third air inlet 236. Therefore, the humidifier 1 for a fuel cell according to this disclosure can be implemented to reduce damage or destruction to the hollow fiber membrane bundle 22 due to the pressure of the humid or dry gas introduced through each of the second air inlets 234 and the third air inlet 236, and exhibits improved humidification performance. Figure 11 It is shown that the first region 231a, the second region 231b, and the third region 231c are implemented to have substantially the same size; however, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the second region 231b may be implemented to have a size different from that of the first region 231a and the third region 231c.

[0097] Reference Figure 12 and Figure 13In the humidifier 1 for a fuel cell according to this disclosure, two or more cylinders 23 may be disposed in the intermediate housing 21. Figure 12 As shown, two cylindrical bodies 23 and 23' can be disposed within the intermediate shell 21. Figure 13 As shown, three cylinders 23, 23′ and 23″ can be provided in the intermediate shell 21. Although not shown, four or more cylinders 23 can be provided in the intermediate shell 21.

[0098] The disclosure described above is not limited to the above-described embodiments and figures, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various substitutions, modifications and alterations can be made without departing from the technical concept of the disclosure.

Claims

1. A humidifier for a fuel cell, the humidifier comprising: The humidification module is configured to humidify the dry gas supplied from the outside using the wet gas discharged from the fuel cell stack; A first cap is attached to one end of the humidification module; and A second cover is attached to the other end of the humidification module, wherein... The humidification module includes: A middle shell with openings at its opposite ends; A first air inlet and a first air outlet are formed on one side of the intermediate housing; and Hollow fiber membrane bundles housed longitudinally within the intermediate shell The hollow fiber membrane bundle includes a plurality of first hollow fiber membranes. Each of the first hollow fiber membranes independently comprises a first hollow core, and The center of the first hollow fiber membrane is offset from the center of the first hollow fiber membrane, facing the other side of the intermediate shell. The hollow fiber membrane bundle further includes multiple second hollow fiber membranes. Each of the second hollow fiber membranes independently comprises a second hollow section, and The center of the second hollow structure is located at the same position as the center of the second hollow fiber membrane. Furthermore, the second hollow fiber membrane is positioned closer to one side of the intermediate shell than the first hollow fiber membrane.

2. The humidifier according to claim 1, wherein, The difference between the maximum and minimum membrane thickness of the first hollow fiber membrane is 10 μm to 100 μm.

3. The humidifier according to claim 1, wherein, The minimum membrane thickness of the first hollow fiber membrane is 60 μm or more.

4. A humidifier for a fuel cell, the humidifier comprising: The humidification module is configured to humidify the dry gas supplied from the outside using the wet gas discharged from the fuel cell stack; A first cap is attached to one end of the humidification module; and A second cover is attached to the other end of the humidification module, wherein... The humidification module includes: A middle shell with openings at its opposite ends; A first air inlet and a first air outlet are formed on one side of the intermediate housing; and At least one cylindrical body is disposed in the intermediate housing. The cylindrical body comprises: an inner shell having an opening formed at each end thereof, and a hollow fiber membrane bundle housed within the inner shell. The inner shell has a second air inlet and a second air outlet on one side. The hollow fiber membrane bundle includes a plurality of first hollow fiber membranes. Each of the first hollow fiber membranes independently comprises a first hollow core, and The center of the first hollow fiber membrane is offset from the center of the first hollow fiber membrane, facing the other side of the inner shell. The hollow fiber membrane bundle further includes multiple second hollow fiber membranes. Each of the second hollow fiber membranes independently comprises a second hollow section, and The center of the second hollow structure is located at the same position as the center of the second hollow fiber membrane. Furthermore, the second hollow fiber membrane is positioned closer to one side of the intermediate shell than the first hollow fiber membrane.

5. The humidifier according to claim 4, wherein, The difference between the maximum and minimum membrane thickness of the first hollow fiber membrane is 10 μm to 100 μm.

6. The humidifier according to claim 4, wherein, The minimum membrane thickness of the first hollow fiber membrane is 60 μm or more.

7. The humidifier according to claim 4, wherein, The inner shell has a third air inlet and a third air outlet on its other side, and The second hollow fiber membrane is configured to be closer to one side and the other side of the inner shell than the first hollow fiber membrane.

8. The humidifier according to claim 4, wherein, Two or more cylindrical bodies are disposed in the intermediate shell.

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