High-uniformity low-resistance high-power fuel cell metal bipolar plate

By designing cavities and lattice distribution areas for anode and cathode plates on the metal bipolar plates of fuel cells, combined with coolant flow channels, the problems of uneven flow of reactant gases and high flow resistance in fuel cells are solved, achieving fuel cell operation with high uniformity and low flow resistance, and improving the stability and efficiency of high-power operation.

CN118738432BActive Publication Date: 2025-11-21HUAZHONG UNIV OF SCI & TECH
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202410595481.9
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-05-14
Publication Date
2025-11-21
Estimated Expiration
2044-05-14

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing fuel cell metal bipolar plates suffer from problems such as uneven flow of reactant gases, high flow resistance, and low power, especially under high power requirements, the uneven flow of water vapor is aggravated.

Method used

A high-uniformity, low-flow-resistance, high-power fuel cell metal bipolar plate was designed. By setting cavities and lattice distribution areas of mutually fitted anode inlet, anode outlet, cathode inlet and cathode outlet on the anode and cathode plates, combined with coolant flow channels, uniform distribution of reaction gas and cooling effect are achieved.

Benefits of technology

This achieves high uniformity of fuel cell reaction, low flow resistance, and efficient heat exchange, thereby improving the stability and high-power operation capability of fuel cells.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The application discloses a high-uniformity low-flow-resistance high-power fuel cell metal bipolar plate and relates to the technical field of fuel cells. The anode single plate comprises an anode inlet, an anode inlet cavity, an anode inlet lattice distribution area, an anode flow channel, an anode outlet, an anode outlet cavity, an anode outlet lattice distribution area and the like. The anode inlet, the anode inlet cavity, the anode inlet lattice distribution area and the anode flow channel are sequentially communicated. The anode outlet, the anode outlet cavity, the anode outlet lattice distribution area and the anode flow channel are sequentially communicated. The cathode single plate comprises a cathode inlet, a cathode inlet cavity, a cathode inlet lattice distribution area, a cathode flow channel, a cathode outlet, a cathode outlet cavity and a cathode outlet lattice distribution area. The cathode inlet, the cathode inlet cavity, the cathode inlet lattice distribution area and the cathode flow channel are sequentially communicated. The cathode outlet, the cathode outlet cavity, the cathode outlet lattice distribution area and the cathode flow channel are sequentially communicated. The high-uniformity low-flow-resistance high-power fuel cell metal bipolar plate has the characteristics of high uniformity, low flow resistance and high power.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of fuel cell technology, and in particular to a high-uniformity, low-flow-resistance, high-power metal bipolar plate for fuel cells. Background Technology

[0002] A fuel cell is a power generation device that primarily uses oxygen or other oxidants to undergo a redox reaction, converting the chemical energy of fuel into electrical energy. Hydrogen is the most common fuel. Bipolar plates are key components in fuel cells, responsible for reactant distribution and electrical conductivity. They are typically made of graphite or metallic materials. Metallic bipolar plates, with their higher specific power and greater strength, have become the primary research and development target at present.

[0003] Chinese patent CN202310197837.9 discloses a bipolar plate for a fuel cell, with protrusions on the bipolar plate, the density of which gradually increases from the inlet to the outlet. By setting the flow channel protrusion shape on the bipolar plate and the increasingly dense distribution of protrusions from the inlet to the outlet, it helps to achieve uniform material distribution and water management inside the fuel cell, reduces concentration polarization, and improves the output performance and durability of the fuel cell at high power densities. However, opening holes in the flow channel region raises the issue of difficulty in sealing the bipolar plate, and excessive sacrifice of reaction area can lead to lower bipolar plate power. Chinese patent CN202122240602.2 discloses a bipolar plate and fuel cell stack, which improves the flow field structure by setting distribution channels to promote uniform flow distribution, but suffers from high air-side flow resistance. Chinese patent CN202121075707.0 discloses a single-plate three-chamber bipolar plate for fuel cells, including a single bipolar plate with an anode side on one side and a cathode side on the other. The anode side is provided with multiple fuel gas flow channels, and the cathode side is provided with multiple oxidation gas flow channels. The single bipolar plate is also provided with several hollow coolant flow channels in its thickness direction. This design can effectively reduce the total thickness of multiple stacked bipolar plates, reduce the stack volume, and increase the power density of the stack, thereby meeting the requirements of high-power power generation stacks. However, the reactant gas cannot flow evenly into the gas flow channels, resulting in poor reaction uniformity. At the same time, high power density will bring problems such as uneven heat distribution and increased flooding.

[0004] In fuel cell metal bipolar plates, the uniformity of reactant gas flow plays a crucial role in the stable conduct of the reaction. However, in existing technologies, the uniformity of gas inlet and outlet in fuel cells is not high, leading to unstable and unreliable operation. Furthermore, due to the stamping characteristics of metal bipolar plates, simultaneous drag reduction in the hydrogen / air / water flow channels cannot be achieved, and the non-uniformity of water-gas flow intensifies with increasing power demands. Therefore, existing fuel cell metal bipolar plates suffer from poor uniformity, high flow resistance, and low power output. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The technical problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is how to improve the stability of the intake and exhaust of the metal bipolar plate of the fuel cell, so as to meet the requirements of high uniformity, low flow resistance and high power of the metal bipolar plate of the fuel cell.

[0006] To address the aforementioned problems, this invention proposes a high-uniformity, low-flow-resistance, high-power fuel cell metal bipolar plate, comprising an anode plate and a cathode plate bonded together, wherein:

[0007] The anode plate includes an anode inlet, an anode inlet cavity, an anode inlet lattice distribution area, an anode flow channel, an anode outlet, an anode outlet cavity, and an anode outlet lattice distribution area; the anode inlet, the anode inlet cavity, the anode inlet lattice distribution area, and the anode flow channel are sequentially connected; the anode outlet, the anode outlet cavity, the anode outlet lattice distribution area, and the anode flow channel are sequentially connected.

[0008] The cathode plate includes a cathode inlet, a cathode inlet cavity, a cathode inlet lattice distribution area, a cathode flow channel, a cathode outlet, a cathode outlet cavity, and a cathode outlet lattice distribution area; the cathode inlet, the cathode inlet cavity, the cathode inlet lattice distribution area, and the cathode flow channel are connected in sequence; the cathode outlet, the cathode outlet cavity, the cathode outlet lattice distribution area, and the cathode flow channel are also connected in sequence.

[0009] A further technical solution is that the cathode plate includes a first non-gas flow region and a second non-gas flow region; the first non-gas flow region is located on one side of the anode inlet, and the second non-gas flow region is located on one side of the anode outlet; a first coolant cavity is formed between the first non-gas flow region and the anode plate, and a second coolant cavity is formed between the second non-gas flow region and the anode plate.

[0010] A further technical solution is that the anode plate includes a third non-gas flow region and a fourth non-gas flow region; the third non-gas flow region is located on one side of the cathode inlet, and the fourth non-gas flow region is located on one side of the cathode outlet; a third coolant cavity is formed between the third non-gas flow region and the cathode plate, and a fourth coolant cavity is formed between the fourth non-gas flow region and the cathode plate.

[0011] A further technical solution includes a coolant flow channel, which includes a coolant inlet and a coolant outlet. The coolant flow channel is located between the anode plate and the cathode plate, and is connected to the first coolant cavity, the second coolant cavity, the third coolant cavity, and the fourth coolant cavity, respectively.

[0012] A further technical solution is that there is one anode inlet and one anode outlet, the anode inlet and the anode outlet are the same size and are centrally symmetrical; there is one cathode inlet and one cathode outlet, the cathode inlet and the cathode outlet are the same size and are centrally symmetrical; there is one coolant inlet and one coolant outlet, the coolant inlet and the coolant outlet are the same size and are centrally symmetrical.

[0013] A further technical solution is that the cross-sectional area of ​​the cathode inlet is 1.8-2.2 times that of the anode inlet, and the reaction zone area of ​​the high-uniformity, low-flow-resistance, high-power fuel cell metal bipolar plate accounts for more than 60%.

[0014] A further technical solution is that the geometry of the anode inlet cavity, the anode outlet cavity, the cathode inlet cavity, and the cathode outlet cavity is trapezoidal; and the geometry of the anode inlet lattice distribution area, the anode outlet lattice distribution area, the cathode inlet lattice distribution area, and the cathode outlet lattice distribution area is triangular.

[0015] A further technical solution is that the anode inlet lattice distribution area, the anode outlet lattice distribution area, the cathode inlet lattice distribution area, and the cathode outlet lattice distribution area all include a plurality of spaced outwardly protruding turbulence columns, and the cross-sectional shape of the turbulence columns is circular or elliptical.

[0016] The anode inlet lattice distribution area, the anode outlet lattice distribution area, the cathode inlet lattice distribution area, and the cathode outlet lattice distribution area each include a plurality of spaced-apart inwardly protruding reverse support columns, the cross-sectional shape of which is circular or elliptical.

[0017] A further technical solution is that, in the anode inlet lattice distribution area, the distribution density of the turbulence-causing columns gradually decreases from the end near the anode inlet to the end away from the anode inlet; in the anode outlet lattice distribution area, the distribution density of the turbulence-causing columns gradually decreases from the end near the anode outlet to the end away from the anode outlet; in the cathode inlet lattice distribution area, the distribution density of the turbulence-causing columns gradually decreases from the end near the cathode inlet to the end away from the cathode inlet; and in the cathode outlet lattice distribution area, the distribution density of the turbulence-causing columns gradually decreases from the end near the cathode outlet to the end away from the cathode outlet.

[0018] Compared with the prior art, the technical effects achieved by the embodiments of the present invention include:

[0019] By applying the technical solution of this invention, the combined action of the anode inlet cavity, anode inlet lattice distribution area, anode outlet cavity, and anode outlet lattice distribution area enables the reactant gas at the anode to be uniformly distributed into the anode flow channel, avoiding the uneven distribution phenomenon of "high at both ends and low in the middle". Similarly, the combined action of the cathode inlet cavity, cathode inlet lattice distribution area, cathode outlet cavity, and cathode outlet lattice distribution area enables the reactant gas at the cathode to be uniformly distributed into the cathode flow channel, avoiding the uneven distribution phenomenon of "high at both ends and low in the middle". Thus, the reaction in this invention can proceed more smoothly and reliably, achieving high uniformity, low flow resistance reactant distribution, and efficient heat exchange in high-power fuel cells. Attached Figure Description

[0020] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0021] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, for those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0022] One or more embodiments are illustrated by way of example with reference numerals in the accompanying drawings. These illustrations do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments. Elements with the same reference numerals in the drawings are denoted as similar elements. Unless otherwise stated, the figures in the drawings are not to be limited by scale.

[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of one side of the cathode plate of a high-uniformity, low-flow-resistance, high-power fuel cell metal bipolar plate proposed in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of one side of the anode plate of a high-uniformity, low-flow-resistance, high-power metal bipolar plate for a fuel cell, as proposed in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of cooling water flow in a high-uniformity, low-flow-resistance, high-power fuel cell metal bipolar plate according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of an anode plate of a high-uniformity, low-flow-resistance, high-power fuel cell metal bipolar plate proposed in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a cathode plate of a high-uniformity, low-flow-resistance, high-power fuel cell metal bipolar plate proposed in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an elliptical turbulence column for a high-uniformity, low-flow-resistance, high-power fuel cell metal bipolar plate proposed in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a partial cross-section and fluid flow in the gas distribution region of a high-uniformity, low-flow-resistance, high-power fuel cell metal bipolar plate, as proposed in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 8 This is another schematic diagram of a cathode single plate of a high-uniformity, low-flow-resistance, high-power fuel cell metal bipolar plate proposed in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 9 This is another schematic diagram of the anode plate of a high-uniformity, low-flow-resistance, high-power fuel cell metal bipolar plate proposed in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure Labels

[0033] Anode plate 100, cathode plate 200, anode inlet 5, anode inlet cavity 17, anode inlet lattice distribution area 16, anode flow channel 15, anode outlet 11, anode outlet cavity 19, anode outlet lattice distribution area 14, cathode inlet 1, cathode inlet cavity 13, cathode inlet lattice distribution area 2, cathode flow channel 3, cathode outlet 8, cathode outlet cavity 9, cathode outlet lattice distribution area 4, first non-gas flow zone 6, second non-gas flow zone 10, third non-gas flow zone 20, fourth non-gas flow zone 18, coolant flow channel 21, coolant inlet 7, coolant outlet 12, first coolant cavity 22, second coolant cavity 23, third coolant cavity 24, fourth coolant cavity 25, turbulence column 26, anode hydrogen flow zone 27, cathode air flow zone 28, coolant flow zone 29, reverse support column 30. Detailed Implementation

[0034] The technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Similar component reference numerals in the drawings represent similar components. Obviously, the embodiments described below are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the present invention without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0035] It should be understood that, when used in this specification and the appended claims, the terms "comprising" and "including" indicate the presence of the described features, integrals, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components and / or collections thereof.

[0036] It should also be understood that the terminology used in this specification of embodiments of the invention is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the embodiments of the invention. As used in this specification of embodiments of the invention and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0037] See Figures 1-9 This invention proposes a high-uniformity, low-flow-resistance, high-power fuel cell metal bipolar plate, characterized by comprising an anode plate 100 and a cathode plate 200 that are bonded together. The anode plate 100 has an anode flow field on its front side, and the cathode plate 200 has a cathode flow field on its front side. After welding, the back sides of the anode plate 100 and cathode plate 200 form a cavity for cooling water flow.

[0038] The anode plate 100 includes an anode inlet 5, an anode inlet cavity 17, an anode inlet dot matrix distribution area 16, an anode flow channel 15, an anode outlet 11, an anode outlet cavity 19, and an anode outlet dot matrix distribution area 14. The anode inlet 5, the anode inlet cavity 17, the anode inlet dot matrix distribution area 16, and the anode flow channel 15 are sequentially connected. The anode outlet 11, the anode outlet cavity 19, the anode outlet dot matrix distribution area 14, and the anode flow channel 15 are sequentially connected.

[0039] The reactant gas at the anode enters the anode inlet cavity 17 from the anode inlet 5 for premixing, then flows into the anode inlet lattice distribution area 16, where it is evenly distributed into the anode flow channel 15. Further, the waste gas in the anode flow channel 15, under the action of the anode outlet lattice distribution area 14, flows evenly into the anode outlet cavity 19 for remixing, and then exits from the anode outlet 11. Based on the combined action of the anode inlet cavity 17, the anode inlet lattice distribution area 16, the anode outlet cavity 19, and the anode outlet lattice distribution area 14, the gas flow in the anode plate 100 becomes more uniform and stable.

[0040] The cathode plate 200 includes a cathode inlet 1, a cathode inlet cavity 13, a cathode inlet lattice distribution area 2, a cathode flow channel 3, a cathode outlet 8, a cathode outlet cavity 9, and a cathode outlet lattice distribution area 4. The cathode inlet 1, the cathode inlet cavity 13, the cathode inlet lattice distribution area 2, and the cathode flow channel 3 are sequentially connected. The cathode outlet 8, the cathode outlet cavity 9, the cathode outlet lattice distribution area 4, and the cathode flow channel 3 are also sequentially connected.

[0041] The reactant gas at the cathode enters the cathode inlet cavity 13 from the cathode inlet 1 for premixing, then flows into the cathode inlet lattice distribution area 2, where it is evenly distributed into the cathode flow channel 3. Further, the waste gas in the cathode flow channel 3, under the action of the cathode outlet lattice distribution area 4, flows evenly into the cathode outlet cavity 9 for remixing, and then exits from the cathode outlet 8. Based on the combined action of the cathode inlet cavity 13, the cathode inlet lattice distribution area 2, the cathode outlet cavity 9, and the cathode outlet lattice distribution area 4, the gas flow in the cathode panel 200 becomes more uniform and stable.

[0042] By applying the technical solution of this invention, the combined action of the anode inlet cavity 17, the anode inlet lattice distribution area 16, the anode outlet cavity 19, and the anode outlet lattice distribution area 14 enables the reactant gas of the anode to be uniformly distributed into the anode flow channel 15, avoiding the uneven distribution phenomenon of "high at both ends and low in the middle"; the combined action of the cathode inlet cavity 13, the cathode inlet lattice distribution area 2, the cathode outlet cavity 9, and the cathode outlet lattice distribution area 4 enables the reactant gas of the cathode to be uniformly distributed into the cathode flow channel 3, avoiding the uneven distribution phenomenon of "high at both ends and low in the middle", thus improving the uniformity of the electrochemical reaction of the fuel cell and realizing high uniformity, low flow resistance reactant distribution, and efficient heat exchange of high-power fuel cells.

[0043] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the cathode plate 200 includes a first non-gas flow region 6 and a second non-gas flow region 10.

[0044] The first non-gas flow zone 6 is located on one side of the anode inlet 5, and a first coolant cavity 22 is formed between the first non-gas flow zone 6 and the anode plate 100.

[0045] The second non-gas flow zone 10 is located on one side of the anode outlet 11, and a second coolant cavity 23 is formed between the second non-gas flow zone 10 and the anode plate 100.

[0046] The first coolant cavity 22 and the second coolant cavity 23 allow coolant to flow in, thereby improving the cooling effect.

[0047] Furthermore, the anode plate 100 includes a third non-gas flow zone 20 and a fourth non-gas flow zone 18.

[0048] The third non-gas flow zone 20 is located on one side of the cathode inlet 1, and a third coolant cavity 24 is formed between the third non-gas flow zone 20 and the cathode plate 200.

[0049] The fourth non-gas flow zone 18 is located on one side of the cathode outlet 8; a fourth coolant cavity 25 is formed between the fourth non-gas flow zone 18 and the cathode plate 200.

[0050] The third coolant cavity 24 and the fourth coolant cavity 25 allow coolant to flow in, thereby improving the cooling effect.

[0051] Furthermore, the high-uniformity, low-flow-resistance, high-power fuel cell metal bipolar plate also includes a coolant flow channel 21, which includes a coolant inlet 7 and a coolant outlet 12. The coolant inlet 7 is used for coolant inflow, and the coolant outlet 12 is used for coolant outflow.

[0052] The coolant channel 21 is located between the anode plate 100 and the cathode plate 200, and the coolant channel 21 is connected to the first coolant cavity 22, the second coolant cavity 23, the third coolant cavity 24 and the fourth coolant cavity 25 respectively.

[0053] After the coolant flows in from the coolant inlet 7, it flows through the coolant channel 21, through the first coolant cavity 22, the second coolant cavity 23, the third coolant cavity 24 and the fourth coolant cavity 25, and finally flows out from the coolant outlet 12, thereby achieving rapid heat dissipation and improving the cooling effect.

[0054] Furthermore, there is one anode inlet 5 and one anode outlet 11. The anode inlet 5 and the anode outlet 11 are the same size and are centrally symmetrical, so that the reaction gas of the anode plate 100 can flow in and out evenly.

[0055] There is one cathode inlet 1 and one cathode outlet 8. The cathode inlet 1 and the cathode outlet 8 are the same size and are centrally symmetrical, so that the reaction gas of the cathode plate 200 can flow in and out evenly.

[0056] There is one coolant inlet 7 and one coolant outlet 12. The coolant inlet 7 and the coolant outlet 12 are the same size and are centrally symmetrical, so that the coolant can flow in and out evenly.

[0057] Furthermore, the cross-sectional area of ​​the cathode inlet 1 is 1.8-2.2 times that of the anode inlet 5, thereby ensuring that the reaction gases of the cathode and anode are in a more suitable ratio, so that the reaction can be more complete.

[0058] The reaction zone area of ​​the high-uniformity, low-flow-resistance, high-power fuel cell metal bipolar plate accounts for more than 60% of the total area of ​​the plate.

[0059] Furthermore, the anode inlet 5, the cathode outlet 8, and the coolant outlet 12 are located on the same side of the high-uniformity, low-flow-resistance, high-power fuel cell metal bipolar plate; the anode outlet 11, the cathode inlet 1, and the coolant inlet 7 are located on the same side of the high-uniformity, low-flow-resistance, high-power fuel cell metal bipolar plate.

[0060] Furthermore, the anode inlet cavity 17, the anode outlet cavity 19, the cathode inlet cavity 13, and the cathode outlet cavity 9 are trapezoidal in shape. Specifically, the shorter base of the anode inlet cavity 17 is connected to the anode inlet 5, and the longer base is connected to the anode inlet lattice distribution area 16; the shorter base of the anode outlet cavity 19 is connected to the anode outlet 11, and the longer base is connected to the anode outlet lattice distribution area 14; the shorter base of the cathode inlet cavity 13 is connected to the cathode inlet 1, and the longer base is connected to the cathode inlet lattice distribution area 2; the shorter base of the cathode outlet cavity 9 is connected to the cathode outlet 8, and the longer base is connected to the cathode outlet lattice distribution area 4.

[0061] The anode inlet lattice distribution area 16, the anode outlet lattice distribution area 14, the cathode inlet lattice distribution area 2, and the cathode outlet lattice distribution area 4 are triangular in shape.

[0062] Furthermore, the anode inlet lattice distribution area 16, the anode outlet lattice distribution area 14, the cathode inlet lattice distribution area 2, and the cathode outlet lattice distribution area 4 each include a plurality of spaced outwardly protruding turbulence columns 26, the cross-sectional shape of which is circular or elliptical.

[0063] Furthermore, in the anode inlet lattice distribution region 16, the distribution density of the turbulence-disrupting columns 26 gradually decreases from the end near the anode inlet 5 to the end away from the anode inlet 5; in the anode outlet lattice distribution region 14, the distribution density of the turbulence-disrupting columns 26 gradually decreases from the end near the anode outlet 11 to the end away from the anode outlet 11; in the cathode inlet lattice distribution region 2, the distribution density of the turbulence-disrupting columns 26 gradually decreases from the end near the cathode inlet 1 to the end away from the cathode inlet 1; and in the cathode outlet lattice distribution region 4, the distribution density of the turbulence-disrupting columns 26 gradually decreases from the end near the cathode outlet 8 to the end away from the cathode outlet 8. Through this "sparse-dense" distribution structure, the reactant gas from the anode plate 100 can flow uniformly into the anode channel 15, and simultaneously, the reactant gas from the cathode plate 200 can flow uniformly into the cathode channel 3, thereby improving the uneven gas distribution phenomenon of "high at both ends and low in the middle".

[0064] Further, see Figure 4 The diagram shows the lattice structure in the anode inlet lattice distribution area 16 and the anode outlet lattice distribution area 14 of the anode plate 100, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the turbulence column 26 is circular.

[0065] In one embodiment, the parameters of the lattice structure of the anode plate 100 are shown in Table 1 below:

[0066] Table 1. Parameters of 100-dot matrix structure for anode single plate

[0067]

[0068] In this embodiment, r is the radius of the turbulence column 26 in the lattice structure of the anode plate 100, and r can be 1 mm. See also Figure 4 The anode inlet dot matrix distribution area 16 of the anode plate 100 is triangular in shape. Within the anode inlet dot matrix distribution area 16, the side that contacts the anode inlet cavity 17 is the first side, the side that contacts the anode flow channel 15 is the second side, and the remaining side is the third side. In this invention, the direction along the first side away from the anode flow channel 15 is defined as the X1 direction; the direction along the third side towards the anode flow channel 15 is defined as the flow direction; and the distance X1 is defined as the distance along the X1 direction, starting from the intersection of the first side and the anode flow channel 15.

[0069] Based on the parameters in Table 1, the gas distribution of the anode plate 100 is made more uniform, and it can be evenly distributed into the anode channel 15.

[0070] Further, see Figure 5 The image shows the lattice structure in the cathode inlet lattice distribution area 2 and the cathode outlet lattice distribution area 4 of the cathode plate 200, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the turbulence column 26 is circular.

[0071] The parameters of the lattice structure of cathode plate 200 are shown in Table 2 below:

[0072] Table 2. Parameters of 200-dot matrix structure for cathode single plate

[0073]

[0074] In this embodiment, r is the radius of the turbulence column 26 in the lattice structure of the cathode plate 200, and r can be 1 mm. See also Figure 5 The cathode inlet lattice distribution area 2 of the cathode plate 200 is triangular in shape. Within the cathode inlet lattice distribution area 2, the side that contacts the cathode inlet cavity 13 is the first side, the side that contacts the cathode flow channel 3 is the second side, and the remaining side is the third side. In this invention, the direction along the first side away from the cathode flow channel 3 is defined as the X2 direction; the direction along the third side towards the cathode flow channel 3 is defined as the flow direction; and the distance X2 is defined as the distance along the X2 direction, starting from the intersection of the first side and the cathode flow channel 3.

[0075] Based on the parameters in Table 2, the gas distribution of the cathode plate 200 is made more uniform, and it can be evenly distributed into the cathode channel.

[0076] Further, see Figure 6 , Figure 6 The diagram shows a 26-structured elliptical cross-section of a flow-dispersing column. Here, A is the major axis of the ellipse, B is the diameter of the ellipse, and C is the lattice spacing.

[0077] Further, see Figure 7 , Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a partial cross-section and fluid flow in the gas distribution region of a high-uniformity, low-flow-resistance, high-power fuel cell metal bipolar plate, as proposed in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 Coolant flow zones 29 are provided on both sides of the hydrogen flow zone 27 at the anode and the air flow zone 28 at the cathode, thereby providing better cooling performance. The coolant can specifically be water.

[0078] Furthermore, in one embodiment, see... Figures 8-9The anode inlet lattice distribution area 16, the anode outlet lattice distribution area 14, the cathode inlet lattice distribution area 2, and the cathode outlet lattice distribution area 4 each include a plurality of spaced-apart inwardly protruding reverse support columns 30, the cross-sectional shape of which is circular or elliptical. The plurality of reverse support columns 30 form a reverse lattice structure.

[0079] The extension direction of the reverse support column 30 is exactly opposite to that of the turbulence-disrupting column 26. Specifically, the turbulence-disrupting column 26 extends outward from the metal bipolar plate to disrupt the flow; the reverse support column 30 extends inward from the metal bipolar plate to provide support. By supporting the cooling channel with the reverse support column 30, the influence of assembly stress on the deformation of the cooling channel is suppressed, ensuring that the cooling fluid in the cooling channel can flow smoothly.

[0080] The radius of the reverse support column 30 is the same as the radius of the turbulence column 26, which is r, and r can be 1 mm.

[0081] In the above embodiments, the descriptions of each embodiment have different focuses. For parts that are not described in detail in a certain embodiment, please refer to the relevant descriptions in other embodiments.

[0082] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," and "counterclockwise," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0083] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0084] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0085] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0086] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. The illustrative expressions of the above terms in this specification should not be construed as necessarily referring to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. In addition, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification.

[0087] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to this invention without departing from its spirit and scope. Since these modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims and their equivalents, this invention also intends to include these modifications and variations.

[0088] The above description describes specific embodiments of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any person skilled in the art can easily conceive of various equivalent modifications or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in the present invention, and these modifications or substitutions should all be covered within the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A high-uniformity, low-flow-resistance, high-power fuel cell metal bipolar plate, characterized in that, This includes anode and cathode plates that are fitted together, wherein: The anode plate includes, in sequence, an anode inlet, an anode inlet cavity, an anode inlet lattice distribution area, an anode flow channel, an anode outlet lattice distribution area, an anode outlet cavity, and an anode outlet; the cathode plate has the same composition as the anode plate. The cathode plate includes a first non-gas flow region and a second non-gas flow region; the first non-gas flow region is located on one side of the anode inlet, and the second non-gas flow region is located on one side of the anode outlet; a first coolant cavity is formed between the first non-gas flow region and the anode plate, and a second coolant cavity is formed between the second non-gas flow region and the anode plate. The anode plate includes a third non-gas flow zone and a fourth non-gas flow zone; the third non-gas flow zone is located on one side of the cathode inlet, and the fourth non-gas flow zone is located on one side of the cathode outlet; a third coolant cavity is formed between the third non-gas flow zone and the cathode plate, and a fourth coolant cavity is formed between the fourth non-gas flow zone and the cathode plate. It also includes a coolant flow channel, which includes a coolant inlet and a coolant outlet. The coolant flow channel is located between the anode plate and the cathode plate, and is connected to the first coolant cavity, the second coolant cavity, the third coolant cavity and the fourth coolant cavity respectively. The anode inlet lattice distribution area, anode outlet lattice distribution area, cathode inlet lattice distribution area, and cathode outlet lattice distribution area all include multiple spaced outwardly protruding turbulence columns and multiple spaced inwardly protruding reverse support columns. The anode inlet cavity, anode outlet cavity, cathode inlet cavity, and cathode outlet cavity have trapezoidal geometry; the anode inlet lattice distribution region, anode outlet lattice distribution region, cathode inlet lattice distribution region, and cathode outlet lattice distribution region have triangular geometry. In the anode inlet lattice distribution region, the distribution density of the turbulent columns gradually decreases from the end closest to the anode inlet to the end furthest from the anode inlet; in the anode outlet lattice distribution region, the distribution density of the turbulent columns gradually decreases from the end closest to the anode outlet to the end furthest from the anode outlet; the distribution density of the turbulent columns in the cathode inlet lattice distribution region follows the same trend as that in the anode inlet lattice distribution region; the distribution density of the turbulent columns in the cathode outlet lattice distribution region follows the same trend as that in the anode outlet lattice distribution region.

2. The high-uniformity, low-flow-resistance, high-power fuel cell metal bipolar plate according to claim 1, characterized in that, There is one anode inlet and one anode outlet, which are the same size and centrally symmetrical; there is one cathode inlet and one cathode outlet, which are the same size and centrally symmetrical; there is one coolant inlet and one coolant outlet, which are the same size and centrally symmetrical.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

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