Partition plate and tool and method for producing partition plate

Abstract

The invention relates to a separator (1) for an electrolyser, comprising a metal layer (10) having a first side (11) and a second side (21) opposite the first side (11),-a first elastomeric seal (12) arranged in a first channel-shaped groove (14) on the first side (11) of the metal layer (10),-a second elastomeric seal (12) arranged in a second channel-shaped groove (14) on the second side (21) of the metal layer (10), a first elastomeric seal (22) arranged in a channel-shaped second groove (24) on the second side (21) of the metal layer (10) forming a second web (26) on the first side (11) of the metal layer (10) wherein the second web (26) is adjacent to the first groove (14), and a second elastomeric seal (22) arranged in a channel-shaped second groove (24) on the second side (21) of the metal layer (10) forming a second web (16) on the second side (21) of the metal layer (10), the first web (16) abuts the first groove (14), and the first web (16) abuts the second groove (24) such that the first groove (14) and the second groove (24) have a common side wall (20), the first elastomeric seal (12) being spaced from the common side wall (20) and being recessed in the region of the first groove (14). The invention also relates to a tool and a method for manufacturing the separator.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a separator for an electrolyser. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a tool and a method for manufacturing the separator. Background Art

[0002] In general, an electrolyzer typically includes a stack of independent electrochemical cells, each independent electrochemical cell having multiple layers, including at least one separator and a membrane electrode assembly (MEA), and each individual cell is defined by two adjacent separators. The independent electrochemical cell stack may have two end plates, which press the independent electrochemical cells together and stabilize the stack. In addition, the independent electrochemical cell may also include a gas diffusion layer (GDL) or a porous transport layer (PTL), which are arranged between the separator and the membrane electrode assembly. The separator can achieve several functions: indirect electrical contact of the electrodes of the membrane electrode assembly (MEA), separation of media such as water, oxygen or hydrogen, and electrical connection of adjacent independent electrochemical cells. The separator is also commonly referred to as a bipolar plate.

[0003] The separator includes at least one through opening (port) as an inlet or outlet for a fluid to pass through the separator, a flow field having an electrochemically active area, and a fluid guiding structure therebetween for guiding the fluid between the through opening and the flow field.

[0004] For example, the separator can be single-layer or multi-layer. While the separator in a fuel cell is usually double-layered so that the cooling fluid can flow between two independent layers, the separator in an electrolyzer is usually single-layered because no additional cooling is required. The separator itself and each layer of the separator thus separates the medium.

[0005] In addition to the above-mentioned separators, MEA, GDL or PTL, other layers may also be provided. Cell frames and / or cell seals may be arranged between adjacent separators to seal the cells. Independent electrochemical cell stacks must be sealed from the external space because the fluid or medium inside the independent electrochemical cell is usually under overpressure compared to the external environment. For example, the fluid may include hydrogen, air (oxygen), water and / or a mixture thereof. In an electrolyzer, the pressure difference between the environment and the inside of the electrochemical cell may generally exceed 20 bar. For example, the pressure on the generation side, such as the H2 side, may be as high as 40 bar, while the pressure on the reactant side, such as the H2O side, is only at most 2 bar. Therefore, it is important to seal the flow field of the fluid from the environment and the inside of the electrochemical system. To this end, the electrochemical system may have at least one cell frame for each independent electrochemical cell that travels around the outer edge of the independent electrochemical cell, thereby achieving a sealing effect. In addition, the electrolyzer may include one or more sealing layers or cell seals for each independent electrochemical cell, thereby enhancing the sealing effect.

[0006] Therefore, there is a continuous need to further improve the sealing of the system to prevent or at least reduce pressure loss or fluid loss, and / or to improve the safety of the system.

[0007] In addition to the sealing layer, or as an alternative to the sealing layer, an elastomeric seal is usually molded onto the diaphragm to achieve or improve the sealing effect. This type of elastomeric seal is usually arranged on both sides of the diaphragm, so that both sides of the diaphragm are sealed. The curing of the elastomeric compound takes a long time because the injection-molded components must be cross-linked. In the overall manufacturing process of the diaphragm, this cross-linking step is a very long independent process step, which may be disadvantageous in an industrial manufacturing process. Instead, it is desired to injection mold the diaphragm on both sides with an elastomeric compound in a single manufacturing step. However, due to the high injection molding pressure, which is usually at least 500 bar, it is a challenge to seal the diaphragm on both sides in the tool to prevent over-molding of the elastomeric compound. Summary of the invention

[0008] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to at least partially solve the above problems.

[0009] This problem is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims.

[0010] According to a first aspect, a separator for an electrolyzer is provided. The separator comprises:

[0011] - a metal layer having a first side and a second side opposite to the first side,

[0012] a first elastomeric seal arranged in a first channel-shaped groove on a first side of the metal layer, wherein the first groove forms a first web on a second side of the metal layer, and

[0013] - a second elastomeric seal arranged in a second channel-shaped groove on the second side of the metal layer, wherein the second groove forms a second web on the first side of the metal layer.

[0014] The second web is adjacent to the first groove, and the first web is adjacent to the second groove, so that the first groove and the second groove have a common side wall. Here, the first elastomeric seal is spaced apart from the common side wall and is recessed in the region of the first groove.

[0015] The described arrangement of elastomeric seals is particularly compact and can be efficiently produced using the tools and methods described below.

[0016] It can be provided that the bottom plate of the first groove has a embossment in the area in which the first elastomeric seal is recessed, which embossment extends in the longitudinal direction of the first groove next to the first elastomeric seal. In addition, the top plate of the first web can have a embossment, wherein the embossment of the top plate of the web and the embossment of the bottom plate of the groove are arranged overlappingly, so that the metal layer in the area of ​​the overlapping embossments is thinner. For example, the metal layer in the area of ​​the embossment is at least 5%, 10% or 15% thinner, and / or at most 40% thinner than in adjacent areas or in non-embossed areas of the partition or metal layer. The above-mentioned embossment can be formed by the contact pressure of protrusions provided in the manufacturing tool, which are intended to seal the partition in the tool during the manufacturing of the partition, see below.

[0017] In some embodiments, the second elastomeric seal is spaced apart from the common sidewall and is recessed in this region of the second groove. Alternatively, the second elastomeric seal may abut against the common sidewall. It may be provided that the first groove is defined by a further sidewall. The first elastomeric seal may abut against the other sidewall. Alternatively, the first elastomeric seal may be spaced apart from the other sidewall and is recessed in this region.

[0018] Typically, at least one of the two elastomeric seals has at least one sealing lip, for example two sealing lips, which extend in the longitudinal direction of the elastomeric seal and have a projection extending towards the adjacent web. At least one of the elastomeric seals or the sealing lip may define a sealing line or sealing surface which extends around the area of ​​the diaphragm to be sealed. Adjacent to the sealing lip, a recess may be formed in the elastomeric seal which extends laterally alongside the sealing lip.

[0019] The first groove and the second groove may have different cross-sectional shapes. For example, the first groove and / or the second groove is substantially trapezoidal or rectangular in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal extension. The first elastomeric seal typically extends on the floor of the first groove in the longitudinal direction of the first groove. In addition, the second elastomeric seal may extend on the floor of the second groove in the longitudinal direction of the second groove.

[0020] In addition to the first elastomeric seal and the second elastomeric seal, at least one further elastomeric seal may be provided. For example, the partition has a third elastomeric seal, which is arranged in a third groove in the shape of a channel on the first side of the metal layer, the third groove forming a third web on the second side of the metal layer. It can be provided that the third web adjoins the second groove on the second side, and the second web adjoins the third groove on the first side, so that the second groove and the third groove have a common sidewall. The third elastomeric seal is usually spaced apart from the common sidewall and is recessed in this area. In some embodiments, the bottom plate of the third groove has a convex portion in the area where the third elastomeric seal is recessed, and the convex portion extends to the side of the third elastomeric seal in the longitudinal direction of the third groove. The top plate of the third web sometimes has a convex portion, whereby the convex portion of the top plate of the web and the convex portion of the bottom plate of the groove are arranged in an overlapping manner, so that the metal layer in the area of ​​the overlapping convex portions is thinner. These convex portions can originate from the manufacturing process of the partition, see below.

[0021] It can therefore be provided that the partition has at least one embossment in the longitudinal direction and adjacent to the first elastomeric seal and / or the second elastomeric seal and / or the third elastomeric seal. It is also possible to arrange two embossments on both sides of the respective elastomeric seal.

[0022] It can be provided that, in the case of a diaphragm with an elastomeric seal, i.e. in the groove, the diaphragm has no elastomeric seal on its other side, i.e. on the web top plate. The diaphragm can thus have alternating elastomeric seals on its two flat sides. However, it is also possible to provide a different coating on the other side, i.e. on the web top plate.

[0023] The metal layer of the separator is usually made of titanium and / or stainless steel. The thickness of the metal layer is at least 0.1 mm and / or at most 0.8 mm. As mentioned above, the thickness of the metal layer in the area of ​​the convex portion can be smaller than outside the area of ​​the convex portion. The separator is preferably configured as a single-layer separator and, therefore, only has the above-mentioned metal layer when used as intended, i.e., in an electrochemical system. If an additional metal part or insert is provided, which is connected to the metal layer but does not extend over the entire area of ​​the metal layer, but only locally on an area of ​​up to 20% of the area of ​​the metal layer, then the separator can also be called a single layer. In addition, the first elastomeric seal and / or the second elastomeric seal and / or the third elastomeric seal can be made of fluororubber (FKM) and / or ethylene-propylene-diene rubber (EPDM) and / or silicone. The first elastomeric seal and / or the second elastomeric seal and / or the third elastomeric seal are usually injection molded onto the metal layer, for example, with the process described below and / or using the injection molding tool described below.

[0024] The first side of the metal layer is usually designed as the high-pressure side, in particular the H 2 side, and the second side is designed as the low-pressure side, in particular the H 2 O side.

[0025] The separator may have a flow field with an electrochemically active area. In addition, the separator may have at least one through-opening for the passage of a fluid. The first elastomeric seal and / or the second elastomeric seal and / or the third elastomeric seal may be configured to seal the flow field and / or the through-opening at least in certain areas. For this purpose, the corresponding elastomeric seal may be arranged around the flow field and / or the through-opening, for example completely around it.

[0026] According to a second aspect, a tool for manufacturing a separator is provided. The tool is configured to produce the separator described above and / or to perform the method described below.

[0027] The tool includes:

[0028] a first tool part with a first injection channel for supplying a first elastomeric compound, and

[0029] A second tool part with a second injection channel for supplying a second elastomeric compound.

[0030] At least one of the tool parts can be moved relative to another tool part, whereby each tool part is configured to receive a metal layer in an open state and to inject the metal layer on both sides in a closed state. The tool parts are configured so that in a closed state, a first cavity is formed between the first tool part and the first groove of the partition, and a second cavity is formed between the second tool part and the second groove of the partition, wherein a first elastomer compound can be injected from a first injection channel into the first cavity to form a first elastomer seal, and a second elastomer compound can be injected from a second injection channel into the second cavity to form a second elastomer seal.

[0031] The second tool half usually abuts against the first web, while the first tool half usually abuts against the second web of the partition. The adjacent abutment area of ​​the tool half can be called the contact area of ​​the corresponding tool half. The contact area can be configured to be flat or substantially flat, and can be a slightly concave or concave arc area. The injection channels of the tool halves are usually not arranged directly opposite each other (non-overlapping), but are arranged alternately in the first tool half and the second tool half.

[0032] The first tool part may have a first projection and the second tool part may have a second projection, wherein the first projection and the second projection face each other. "Facing each other" here in particular faces each other in the direction of travel of the tool parts, and may also be described as facing each other in the vertical direction. The two projections are usually configured to clamp the metal layer in the tool during the injection molding process and to partially seal the first cavity and / or the second cavity, thereby hindering over-injection of the elastomeric compound. The first projection may abut the first cavity, while the second projection may abut the second cavity.

[0033] Typically, two projections of the tool parts facing each other are configured to locally thin the metal layer arranged between the thin projections. This local thinning is due to the layer being clamped between the tool parts and pressed between the two tool parts. The minimum distance between the projections in the closing direction of the tool is typically at least 10% smaller than the thickness of the metal layer.

[0034] The features of the separators described above, in particular the shape of the separators, can be combined with the tool and vice versa, as long as they are not mutually exclusive. The separators, tools and methods according to the invention are also suitable for anion exchange membrane electrolysis (AEM), for example for converting CO2.

[0035] According to a third aspect, there is provided a method for manufacturing a separator for an electrolyser, preferably a separator of the above type. The method comprises the following steps:

[0036] - providing a metal layer having a first side and a second side opposite the first side, the metal layer having on its first side a first groove in the shape of a channel, wherein the groove forms a first web on the second side of the metal layer, wherein the metal layer has on its second side a second groove in the shape of a channel, wherein the second groove forms a second web on the first side of the metal layer, wherein the second web adjoins the first groove and the first web adjoins the second groove, such that the first groove and the second groove have a common side wall,

[0037] - inserting a metal layer between a first tool part and a second tool part of the tool,

[0038] - Closing tool

[0039] - when the tool is in the closed state, a first cavity is formed between the first groove and the first tool part, and a second cavity is formed between the second groove and the second tool part,

[0040] - injecting the elastomeric compound from an injection channel located in each respective tool part into the first cavity and the second cavity, wherein the injection into the first cavity and the injection into the second cavity occur in parallel, i.e. simultaneously, or at least partially in parallel,

[0041] -A first elastomeric seal is formed by curing a first elastomeric compound in a first cavity associated with a first channel-shaped groove, and a second elastomeric seal is formed by curing a second elastomeric compound in a second cavity associated with a second channel-shaped groove, wherein the first elastomeric seal is spaced apart from the common side wall and is recessed in this area of ​​the first groove.

[0042] In one embodiment of the method, the metal layer is clamped vertically, for example by two protrusions facing each other, and formed in the tool so that the first cavity and / or the second cavity is partially sealed, thereby hindering overmolding of the elastomeric compound. It is possible that when the tool is closed, the metal layer is locally thinned by the two protrusions facing each other.

[0043] The elastomeric compound, for example the first elastomeric compound and / or the second elastomeric compound, may be injection molded into the respective cavity at an injection molding pressure of at least 500 bar and / or at most 1000 bar.

[0044] The method can in particular be carried out using the above-described tool. Features of the method can be combined with features of the tool and vice versa. This also applies analogously to features of the separator and features of the method.

[0045] The method described here is particularly suitable for producing the above-mentioned separators, or is designed for this purpose. Features described only in connection with the separator can be combined with the method, and vice versa.

[0046] According to a fourth aspect, an electrolyser is provided. The electrolyser comprises a plurality of stacked separators of the above type. In one embodiment, water is the reaction medium, and hydrogen and oxygen are the product medium. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0047] Embodiments of separators, tools, methods and electrolyzers are shown in the attached drawings and explained in detail in the following description. In the drawings:

[0048] Figure 1 An exploded schematic diagram of an individual battery cell of an electrolyzer with two separators is shown;

[0049] Figure 2 A schematic top view of a metal layer of a separator is shown;

[0050] Figure 3 shows a schematic cross-sectional view through a partial area of ​​a separator according to one embodiment;

[0051] Figure 4 shows a schematic cross-sectional view through a partial area of ​​a separator according to another embodiment;

[0052] Figure 5shows the cross section used to make the Figure 3 A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a separator tool;

[0053] Figure 6 shows the cross section used to make the Figure 4 A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a separator tool;

[0054] Figure 7 shows a schematic cross-sectional view through a partial area of ​​a tool for producing a further separator;

[0055] Figure 8 Shown from Figure 7 Details of A; and

[0056] Fig. 9 Shows Figure 8 An embodiment in which lines are drawn.

[0057] Here and hereinafter, features which occur repeatedly in different figures are each provided with the same or similar reference symbols. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0058] Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an independent electrochemical cell 9 is shown, wherein the cell 9 is part of an electrolyzer. The electrolyzer typically includes a large number of stacked independent cells 9. The independent cell 9 includes two separators 1 and 2, two cell frames 42 and 44, a sealing layer 45, and a membrane electrode assembly 40 with dielectric diffusion structures 41 and 43. For example, the dielectric diffusion structure 43 includes layered carbon fibers, and the dielectric diffusion structure 41 includes a metal, such as titanium. Here, the separator 1 is arranged, for example, on the anode side of the independent cell 9. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the separator 2 is arranged on the cathode side of the independent cell 9. The independent layers are compressed together to form an independent cell. The independent layers each have a fluid passage 46, 47, 50 and a positioning hole 48, and the fluid passages 46, 47, 50 are arranged to be stacked and aligned with each other for inward and outward passages for water, oxygen and hydrogen.

[0059] The flow field of the separator 2 is determined by projecting the battery cell frame 44 onto the separator 2. The flow field 3 of the separator 1 is determined by projecting the battery cell frame 42 onto the separator 1. The battery cell frame 42 has distribution channels (not shown) for distributing the water fed in. The through openings 46 and 47 are fluidly connected to the flow field 3 so that the medium can be guided from the through opening 46 to the flow field 3, or from the flow field 3 to the through opening 47. When an electric potential is applied, hydrogen (or oxygen) in the electrolyzer can be generated from the supplied water. This hydrogen can be discharged through the distribution channels 49 in the battery cell frame 44. It can then leave the battery cell through the through opening 50. Although Figure 1The separator 1 shown in FIG. 1 has a rounded outer contour, but other shapes are also possible. For example, the separators 1, 2 can have a rectangular outer contour (see also FIG. Figure 2 ).

[0060] Figure 1 The separators 1 and 2 in FIG. 1 are exemplary separators according to the prior art.

[0061] As already indicated above, the pressure difference between the environment and the inside of the electrochemical cell 9 can exceed 20 bar. The pressure on the production side, such as the H2 side, is typically at most 40 bar, while the pressure on the reactant side, such as the H2O side, can be only at most 2 bar. Therefore, sealing structures can be provided to seal the separate areas from each other.

[0062] For example, elastomeric seals are used which are arranged around the area to be sealed, such as the flow field 3 or the through-openings 46, 47, 50. Elastomeric seals are usually not provided over the entire surface, but only in the area of ​​the diaphragm to be sealed.

[0063] Figure 2 A schematic top view of a separator 1 for an electrolyser is shown. The separator 1 comprises a metal layer 10, which is, for example, at least mainly or completely composed of titanium or stainless steel or an alloy thereof. The thickness of the metal layer 10 is at least 0.1 mm and / or at most 0.8 mm. The separator 1 has a flow field 3, which is designed to disperse the water supplied from the through opening 4a as much as possible over a larger area. For this purpose, an optional channel structure 6 is provided in the flow field 3. The through opening 5 is designed to discharge hydrogen, whereby the fluid through opening 5 is surrounded by an elastomeric seal 7 on one side of the separator shown. The elastomeric seal 7 ensures that water cannot escape and that hydrogen or ambient air cannot enter.

[0064] The separator of the fuel cell monomer is usually designed as two layers so that each layer can be processed independently, such as embossing, surface finishing, injection molding, etc. On the other hand, the separators 1 and 2 of the electrolyzer are usually designed as a single layer. Therefore, the sealing elements 7 of the separator in the electrolyzer must be arranged on both sides of the single layer. In addition, arranging the sealing elements in the separator of the electrolyzer will cause different sealing elements to be piled up in a small space. The sealing elements are also arranged alternately to seal both sides of the separator. Therefore, when the separator is to seal a through opening or a flow field, the separator is very complicated due to the small distance between the sealing elements and the alternating arrangement.

[0065] In order to produce the elastomeric seal 7, the metal layer 10 of the diaphragm 1 is usually placed in an injection molding tool. After closing the tool, the elastomeric compound is injection molded onto the layer 10 to form the elastomeric seal 7. It is sometimes difficult to injection mold the elastomeric compound on both sides at the same time. The elastomer front usually travels at different speeds on both sides of the metal layer 10, which can lead to an imbalance of forces. In theory, each side of the diaphragm 1 can be injection molded independently. However, it takes a long time for the elastomeric compound to harden. Therefore, it is desirable that both sides of the metal layer 10 can be injection molded at the same time. In addition, in the injection mold, usually at a high injection pressure of at least 500 bar, it is sometimes difficult to seal the metal layer 10 of the diaphragm 1.

[0066] The present invention contemplates solving these problems, at least in part. Figure 3-9 The embodiments shown in FIG. 1 are described in more detail.

[0067] Figure 3 and Figure 4 Each shows a separator 1 of an electrolyser with a metal layer 10. Typically, the metal layer 10 is a metal plate made of titanium and / or stainless steel. The thickness of the metal layer is typically at least 0.1 mm and / or at most 0.8 mm. The separator 1 is typically designed as a single-layer plate and therefore has no further metal layers besides the metal layer 10 shown.

[0068] The metal layer 10 has a first side 11 and a second side 21 opposite the first side 11. Furthermore, the separator 1 also comprises a first elastomeric seal 12, which is arranged in a first channel-shaped groove 14 on the first side 11 of the metal layer 10, wherein the first groove 14 forms a first web 16 on the second side 21 of the metal layer 10. Furthermore, the separator 1 has a second elastomeric seal 22, which is arranged in a second channel-shaped groove 24 on the second side 21 of the metal layer 10, wherein the second groove 24 forms a second web 26 on the first side 11 of the metal layer 10.

[0069] The second web 26 is adjacent to the first groove 14 and the first web 16 is adjacent to the second groove 24, so that the first groove 14 and the second groove 24 have a common side wall 20. The first groove 14 also has a side wall 15. Thus, the first groove 14 is laterally delimited by the side walls 15,20.

[0070] As shown in Figures 3-9, the first elastomeric seal 12 is spaced apart from the common sidewall 20. Therefore, the elastomeric seal 12 cannot completely fill the groove 14 in the lateral direction, resulting in a region of the first groove 14 being recessed. The lateral direction is indicated by the x direction in the figure. The first elastomeric seal 12 can rest against the other sidewall 15, see Figure 3-6 , or laterally spaced therefrom, see Figure 7. See below for reference Fig. 9 Explain the interval.

[0071] exist Figure 3-6 In the embodiment example, the second elastomeric seal 22 is in contact with the common side wall 20. Alternatively, the second elastomeric seal 22 may also be spaced apart from the common side wall 20, see Figure 7 and Figure 8 .

[0072] Optionally, the separator 1 may also have a third elastomeric seal 32 which is arranged in a third channel-shaped groove 34 on the first side 11 of the metal layer 10 , wherein the third groove 34 forms a third web 36 on the second side 21 of the metal layer 10 .

[0073] It may be provided that the third web 36 is adjacent to the second groove 24 on the second side 21 and that the second web 26 is adjacent to the third groove 34 on the first side 11 , such that the second groove 24 and the third groove 34 have a common side wall 30 .

[0074] The second elastomeric seal 22 may abut against the common side wall 30. Figure 3 , or separated from it, see Figure 4 The third elastomeric seal 32 may abut against the common side wall 30, see Figure 4 , or separated from it, see Figure 3 It may also be provided that the two elastomeric seals 22, 32 are spaced apart from the common side wall, see Figure 7 When the elastomeric seal 12 , 22 , 32 is spaced apart from the side wall 20 or 30 , a gap is formed between the side wall 20 , 30 and the corresponding elastomeric seal 12 , 22 , 32 .

[0075] At least one, several or all elastomeric seals 12 , 22 , 32 may be configured to seal the through-openings 4 , 5 of the flow field 3 and / or of the partition plate 1 at least in certain regions.

[0076] If provided, the third groove 34 also typically has a further sidewall 35. Thus, the third groove 34 is laterally bounded by the sidewalls 30, 35. The second groove 24 is laterally bounded by the sidewalls 20, 30. Depending on the embodiment, the third elastomeric seal 32 may be spaced apart from the further sidewall 35 or abut against the further sidewall 35.

[0077] Each groove 14, 24, 34 also has a bottom plate 17, 27, 37 on which the respective elastomeric seal 12, 22, 32 extends in the longitudinal direction of the corresponding groove 14, 24, 34. In addition, each web 16, 26, 36 has a top plate 19, 29, 39 which extends like a platform and forms the maximum deflection of the web 16, 26, 36 in the height direction perpendicular to the plate plane, i.e. in the y direction. The respective web top plate 19, 29, 39 has a substantially flat or slightly convex cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and extends in the longitudinal direction of the elastomeric seal 12, 22, 32. Thus, the respective groove bottom plate 17, 27, 37 extends flat or substantially flat or slightly concave between the side walls 15, 20 or 20, 30 or 30, 35. The first groove 14 and / or the second groove 24 and / or the third groove 34 are generally substantially trapezoidal or rectangular in cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal extension.

[0078] It can be provided that the bottom plate 17 of the first groove 14 has a convex portion 18 in the area where the first elastomeric seal 12 is recessed, and the convex portion 18 extends in the longitudinal direction of the first groove 14 next to the first elastomeric seal 12. In addition, in some embodiments, the separator 1 is designed so that the top plate 19 of the first web 16 has a convex portion 13, wherein the convex portion 13 of the web top plate 19 and the convex portion 18 of the groove bottom plate 17 are arranged overlapping, so that the metal layer 10 is thinner in the overlapping area of ​​the convex portions 13 and 18.

[0079] Optionally, in a similar manner, the bottom plate 27 of the second groove 24 may have a convex portion 28 in the region where the second elastomeric seal 22 is recessed, the convex portion 28 extending in the longitudinal direction of the second groove 24 next to the second elastomeric seal 22, wherein the top plate 29 of the second web 26 has a convex portion 23, wherein the convex portion 23 of the web top plate 29 and the convex portion 28 of the groove bottom plate 27 are arranged in an overlapping manner, so that the metal layer 10 is thinner in the overlapping region of the convex portions 23, 28, see Figure 4 .

[0080] Optionally, in a similar manner, the bottom plate 37 of the third groove 34 may have a convex portion 38 in the recessed area of ​​the third elastomeric seal 32, which convex portion 38 extends next to the third elastomeric seal 32 in the longitudinal direction of the third groove 34, wherein the top plate 39 of the third web 36 has a convex portion 33, wherein the convex portion 33 of the web top plate 39 and the convex portion 38 of the groove bottom plate 37 are arranged in an overlapping manner, so that the metal layer 10 is thinner in the overlapping area of ​​the convex portions 33 and 38.

[0081] Furthermore, the metal layer 10 can have respective embossments 53 , 58 on both sides 11 , 21 next to the side wall 15 and next to the first elastomeric seal 12 , which are arranged opposite one another so that here too the metal layer 10 is thinner in the region where the embossments 53 , 58 overlap.

[0082] Therefore, thinner means that the thickness of the metal layer 10 in this area is less than the thickness in the adjacent non-embossed area. For example, the metal layer 10 can be at least 10% and / or at most 30% thinner than the adjacent area. For example, the metal sheet can be nominally 40 microns thinner in the thinner area. The embossed part mentioned in this article can also be understood as a local depression in the metal layer 10, whereby the relative or overlapping depressions form a thinning of the metal layer 10.

[0083] In general, a sequence of N elastomeric seals can therefore have at least N+1 thinned regions in the metal layer 10, which extend along the longitudinal direction of the elastomeric seals to the side of the elastomeric seals. Figure 3 and Figure 4 In the embodiment of FIG. 1 , the metal layer 10 thus has four thinned regions.

[0084] The grooves 14 , 24 , 34 and webs 16 , 26 , 36 formed in the separator 1 are preferably formed by embossing, hydroforming and / or deep drawing, in particular before the elastomeric seal 12 , 22 , 32 is formed, and are therefore typically an integral part of the metal layer 10 .

[0085] The first elastomeric seal 12 and / or the second elastomeric seal 22 and / or the third elastomeric seal 32 may be made of fluororubber (FKM) and / or ethylene-propylene-diene rubber (EPDM) and / or silicone. The materials of the elastomeric seals 12, 22 and 32 may be different or the same. It is also possible that the elastomeric seals 12, 32 arranged on the first side 11 of the metal layer 10 are formed of the same material, but are different from the material of the elastomeric seal 22 arranged on the second side 21 of the metal layer 10.

[0086] like Figure 3 , 4, 5, 7 and 8, the elastomeric seal 12, 22, 32 generally has at least one sealing lip 61, 62, 63, preferably two sealing lips 61, 62, 63, which extend in the longitudinal direction of the elastomeric seal 12, 22, 32. Each sealing lip 61, 62, 63 may have a protrusion originating from an adjacent web 16, 26, 36, so that the sealing lip 61, 62, 63 protrudes from the groove 14, 24, 34. Optionally, a recess 71, 72, 73 may be formed in the elastomeric seal 12, 22, 32 adjacent to the sealing lip, the recess extending laterally close to the sealing lip 61, 62, 63. It is also possible to form a recess in the elastomeric seal 12, 22, 32 on both sides of the sealing lip 61, 62, 63, see for example Figure 3 The sealing lip 62 of the second elastomeric seal 22 with the recess 72 is shown in FIG.

[0087] Some features of the separator 1 are directly derived from the manufacturing method of the injection molding tool. They are explained in further detail below.

[0088] Figure 5 and Figure 6 A cross section of a tool 100 for manufacturing a partition 1 is shown. The tool 100 has a first tool part 120 with a first injection channel 125 for supplying a first elastomer compound. In addition, the tool has a second tool part 140 with a second injection channel 145 for supplying a second elastomer compound. Optionally, the first tool part 120 has a third injection channel 165 for supplying a third elastomer compound. The present invention is not limited to three injection channels, but additional injection channels can be provided. However, usually, in a direction transverse to the closing direction of the tool, no injection channel is arranged in an area where one tool half overlaps with an area of ​​the other tool half, wherein an injection channel is located in the overlapping area of ​​the other tool half. The injection channels 125, 145 and 165 are therefore preferably not arranged directly opposite to each other (not overlapping), but are arranged alternately in the first tool half and the second tool half.

[0089] At least one of the tool parts 120 and 140 can be moved relative to the other tool part. The tool parts 120, 140 are configured to receive the metal layer 10 in the open state and to inject the metal layer 10 on both sides in the closed state. Before receiving it, the metal layer 10 usually already has grooves 14, 24, 34 and webs 16, 26, 36. When the metal layer 10 is placed in the tool 100, the metal layer 10 is therefore usually already preformed or pre-embossed. However, the embossed parts 13, 18, 23, 28, 33, 38, 53, 58 of the metal layer 10 are produced in the tool 100, see below.

[0090] The tool parts 120, 140 are configured such that when the tool 100 is closed, a first cavity 130 is formed between the first tool part 120 and the first groove 14, and a second cavity 150 is formed here between the second tool part 140 and the second groove 24. The first elastomeric compound from the first injection channel 125 is introduced into the first cavity 130 to form the first elastomeric seal 12. In addition, the second elastomeric compound is introduced from the second injection channel 145 into the second cavity 150 to form the second elastomeric seal 22. In addition, the third elastomeric compound is introduced from the third injection channel 165 into the third cavity 170 to form the third elastomeric seal 32. It should be noted that the first elastomeric compound, the second elastomeric compound and the third elastomeric compound can be the same, or different, depending on the requirements and use of the diaphragm 1. The injection channels 125 , 145 , 165 are designed to inject the respective elastomeric compound into the corresponding cavity 130 , 150 , 170 at a pressure of at least 500 bar or at most 1000 bar, preferably about 800 bar.

[0091] The flat or slightly curved web top plate 19, 29, 39 rests on a flat or correspondingly slightly curved surface in the tool half 120, 140. Furthermore, depending on the shape of the elastomeric seal 12, 22, 32, such as the sealing lip 61, 62, 63 or the recess 71, 72, 73, the tool half 120, 140 or the cavity 130, 150, 170 of the tool half 120, 140 may have a corresponding complementary shape.

[0092] The first tool part 120 may have a first protrusion 118 and the second tool part 140 may have a second protrusion 113. The protrusion 118 and the protrusion 113 face each other in the closing direction of the tool 100 and are designed to clamp the metal layer 10 in the tool 100 during the injection molding process. By clamping the metal layer 10 between the two protrusions 113, 118, the first cavity 130 and / or the second cavity 150 can be partially sealed, thereby hindering overmolding of the first and / or second elastomeric compound. Due to the contact pressure of the tool 100, the protrusions 118, 113 produce embossings 13 and 18 in the metal layer 10. The first protrusion 118 can, for example, abut the first cavity 130 and the groove bottom plate 17 of the metal layer 10, while the second protrusion 113 can, for example, abut the second cavity 150 and the web top plate 19.

[0093] Optionally, the first tool part 120 may have a protrusion 153 and the second tool part 140 may have a protrusion 158. The protrusion 153 and the protrusion 158 face each other in the closing direction of the tool 100 and are designed to clamp the metal layer 10 in the tool 100 during the injection molding process. By clamping the metal layer, the first cavity 130 can be partially sealed to hinder or at least reduce overmolding of the elastomeric compound. Due to the contact pressure of the tool 100, the protrusions 153, 158 produce embossings 53 and 58 in the metal layer 10. The protrusion 153 can abut the first cavity 130 and be laterally adjacent to the first groove 14.

[0094] The first tool part 120 may further include a protrusion 138, and the second tool part 140 may include a protrusion 133. The protrusion 138 and the protrusion 133 face each other in the closing direction of the tool 100 and are designed to clamp the metal layer 10 in the tool 100 during the injection molding process. By clamping the metal layer 10 in place, the third cavity 170 and / or the second cavity 150 can be partially sealed to hinder overmolding of the elastomeric compound. Due to the contact pressure of the tool 100, the protrusions 138, 133 produce embossings 33 and 38 in the metal layer 10. The protrusion 138 may be adjacent to the third cavity 170 and abut the groove bottom plate 37. The protrusion 133 may be adjacent to the second cavity 150 and abut against the web top plate 39.

[0095] Optionally, the first tool part 120 may have a protrusion 188 and the second tool part 140 may have a protrusion 183. The protrusion 183 and the protrusion 188 face each other in the closing direction of the tool 100 and are designed to clamp the metal layer 10 in the tool 100 during the injection molding process. By clamping the metal layer 10 in place, the third cavity 170 can be partially sealed to hinder overmolding of the elastomeric compound in this area. Due to the contact pressure of the tool 100, the protrusions 183, 188 produce embossings 83 and 88 in the metal layer 10. The protrusion 188 can abut the third cavity 170 and abut the groove bottom plate 37. The protrusion 183 can abut on the web top plate 39.

[0096] The protrusions 113, 118, the protrusions 133, 138, the protrusions 153, 158 and the protrusions 183, 188 each form a pair of protrusions. Each pair of protrusions thus seals at least one cavity 130, 150 or 170 in the tool 100 from one side and can cause a thinning of the metal layer 10. Some pairs of protrusions can be configured to seal two cavities at the same time, see the pairs of protrusions 133-138 and the pairs of protrusions 113-118, which are arranged between the cavities to be sealed.

[0097] Depending on where the protrusion is positioned in the tool, the resulting elastomeric seal 12, 22, 32 will abut against or be spaced apart from the side walls 15, 20, 30, 35 of the groove 14, 24, 34. Thus, the protrusion 13, 18, 23, 28, 33, 38, 53, 58 may be formed in the floor of the groove or in the ceiling of the web.

[0098] Figure 7 Another embodiment of the tool 100 and the separator 1 is shown before the metal layer 10 is molded on. To avoid unnecessary repetition, only the Figure 7 A, which is a detail in Figure 8 Shown enlarged in .

[0099] exist Figure 8 In detail A, protrusions 91, 92, 93 and 94 can be seen. Protrusions 91 and 92 and protrusions 93 and 94 are arranged opposite to each other and work together to hold the inserted metal layer 1 in the tool 100 and seal the cavities 130 and 150. Therefore, Figure 7 , 8 Each of the cavities 130, 150, 170 shown in the figure is pressed against the metal layer 1 by a pair of protrusions 91-92 and 93-94, thereby sealing on both sides. This allows the cavities 130, 150, 170 to be sealed particularly well. The resulting partition 1 has elastomeric seals 12, 22, 32, each of which is spaced apart from the two side walls of the corresponding groove 14, 24, 34. Therefore, there are a total of 2*N pairs of protrusions in the tool for N elastomeric seals, i.e., there are two pairs of protrusions for each cavity 130, 150, 170 or each elastomeric seal 12, 22, 32. This results in 2*N thinning areas in the metal layer. In this case, each pair of protrusions seals the cavity in the tool 100 from one side.

[0100] A total of at least N+1 and / or at most 2*N pairs of projections are therefore provided in the tool 100 , wherein N denotes the number of elastomeric seals 12 , 22 , 32 or the number of cavities in the tool 100 .

[0101] Figure 3-8 The protrusions in each pair of protrusions shown in preferably have a minimum distance in the vertical direction, ie the Y direction or closing direction of the tool 100 , which is at least less than 10% of the thickness of the metal layer 10 .

[0102] Fig. 9 Shows Figure 8Embodiment, wherein different lines are drawn. On the one hand, a tangent line 180 is drawn from the corner radius of the rounded protrusion 91. The tangent line 180 contacts the protrusion 91 at the point where the concave area of ​​the protrusion 91 becomes a convex area, that is, at the point where the function sign of the secondary derivative changes. In addition, an extension of the flat upper edge of the protrusion 91 is shown as line 181. This line 181 can also be described as an extension of the top edge of the plate of the layer 10. Lines 180 and 181 intersect at an intersection point 182. The distance 183 from this intersection point 182 to the starting point of the elastomer 130 is a measure of the minimum distance between the elastomer 130 and the sidewall 20. For example, the distance can be at least 0.2 mm and / or at most 0.5 mm. For example, in the case where the thickness of the non-convex area of ​​the metal layer 10 is 0.2 mm, the distance can be about 0.5 mm. This distance 183 may apply to exactly one, at least one, a plurality, or any of the elastomer / sidewall pairs shown.

[0103] Using the tool 100 described above, a method may be performed comprising the following steps:

[0104] - providing a metal layer 10 having a first side 11 and a second side 21 opposite to the first side 11, the metal layer 10 having a first channel-shaped groove 14 on its first side 11, wherein the groove forms a first web 16 on the second side 21 of the metal layer 10, wherein the metal layer 10 has a second channel-shaped groove 24 on its second side 21, wherein the second groove 24 forms a second web 26 on the first side 11 of the metal layer 10, wherein the second web 26 adjoins the first groove 14 and the first web 16 adjoins the second groove 24, so that the first groove 14 and the second groove 24 have a common side wall 20,

[0105] - inserting the metal layer 10 between the first tool part 120 and the second tool part 140 of the tool 100,

[0106] - closing the tool 100,

[0107] in the closed state of the tool, a first cavity 130 is formed between the first groove 14 and the first tool part 120 and a second cavity 150 is formed between the second groove 24 and the second tool part 140,

[0108] - injection molding of a first elastomeric compound into the first cavity 130 and of a second elastomeric compound into the second cavity 150 from injection channels 125, 145 located in each respective tool part 120, 140, wherein the injection molding of the first elastomeric compound into the first cavity 130 and the injection molding of the second elastomeric compound into the second cavity 150 occur in parallel, i.e. simultaneously, or at least partially in parallel,

[0109] -A first elastomeric seal 12 is formed by curing a first elastomeric compound in a first cavity 130 associated with a first channel-shaped groove 14, and a second elastomeric seal 22 is formed by curing a second elastomeric compound in a second cavity 150 associated with a second channel-shaped groove 24, wherein the first elastomeric seal 12 is spaced apart from the common side wall 20 and is recessed in this area of ​​the first groove 14.

[0110] When the tool 100 is closed, the metal layer 10 is clamped by two mutually facing protrusions formed in the tool 100, so that the first cavity 130 and / or the second cavity 150 are partially sealed, thereby hindering or reducing overmolding of the elastomeric compound from the cavities 130, 150. Generally, when the tool 100 is closed, the metal layer 10 is locally thinned by the two mutually facing protrusions.

[0111] Regarding the manufacture of the third elastomeric seal 32 , please refer to the above description of the tool 100 .

[0112] It should also be noted that Figure 1 and 2 The features of the separators 1 and 2 shown in FIG. Figure 3-8 The features of the separators shown in the drawings may be combined as long as these features are not mutually exclusive.

[0113] List of reference numerals:

[0114] 1 partition

[0115] 2 partitions

[0116] 3 Flow field

[0117] 4a, 4b Fluid passage opening

[0118] 5 Fluid passage openings

[0119] 6-channel structure

[0120] 7Elastomer seals

[0121] 9Electrochemical battery cells

[0122] 10 metal layers

[0123] 11 First flat side

[0124] 12. First elastomer seal

[0125] 13 convex part

[0126] 14First Groove

[0127] 15 Sidewall

[0128] 16 First belly plate

[0129] 17 Groove bottom plate

[0130] 18 convex embossing part

[0131] 19 belly plate top plate

[0132] 20 Common side wall

[0133] 21 Second flat side

[0134] 22 Second elastomer seal

[0135] 23 convex part

[0136] 24 Second Groove

[0137] 26 Second belly plate

[0138] 27 groove bottom plate

[0139] 28 convex embossing part

[0140] 29 belly plate top plate

[0141] 30 Common side wall

[0142] 32 Third elastomer seal

[0143] 33 convex part

[0144] 34Third Groove

[0145] 35 side wall

[0146] 36Third abdominal plate

[0147] 37 groove bottom plate

[0148] 38 convex part

[0149] 39 belly plate top plate

[0150] 40 membrane electrode assembly

[0151] 41 Dielectric Diffusion Structure

[0152] 42 battery cell frame

[0153] 43 Dielectric Diffusion Structure

[0154] 44 battery cell frame

[0155] 45 Sealing Layer

[0156] 46 fluid passage openings

[0157] 47 Fluid passage opening

[0158] 48 positioning holes

[0159] 49 Hydrogen distribution channel

[0160] 50 Hydrogen passage opening

[0161] 53 convex part

[0162] 58 convex embossing part

[0163] 61 Sealing lip

[0164] 62 sealing lip

[0165] 63 Sealing lip

[0166] 71 Depression

[0167] 72 Depression

[0168] 73 Depression

[0169] 83 convex part

[0170] 88 convex embossing part

[0171] 91 bulge

[0172] 92 bulge

[0173] 93 bulge

[0174] 94 bulge

[0175] 100 Tools

[0176] 113 Bump

[0177] 118 bulge

[0178] 120 first tool component

[0179] 123 bulge

[0180] 125 First injection channel

[0181] 128 bulge

[0182] 130 First cavity

[0183] 133 bulge

[0184] 138 bulge

[0185] 140 Second tool part

[0186] 145 Second injection channel

[0187] 150 Second cavity

[0188] 153 bulge

[0189] 158 Bump

[0190] 165 Third injection channel

[0191] 170 Third cavity

[0192] 180 Tangent to corner radius

[0193] 181 Extension of top edge of board

[0194] 182 The intersection of lines 180 and 181

[0195] 183 interval

Claims

1. A separator (1) for an electrolyser, comprising a metal layer (10) having a first side (11) and a second side (21) opposite to the first side (11), a first elastomeric seal (12) arranged in a first channel-shaped groove (14) on the first side (11) of the metal layer (10), wherein the first groove (14) forms a first web (16) on the second side (21) of the metal layer (10), a second elastomeric seal (22) arranged in a second channel-shaped groove (24) on the second side (21) of the metal layer (10), wherein the second groove (24) forms a second web (26) on the first side (11) of the metal layer (10), wherein the second web (26) adjoins the first groove (14), and the first web (16) adjoins the second groove (24), such that the first groove (14) and the second groove (24) have a common side wall (20), The first elastomeric seal (12) is spaced apart from the common side wall (20) and is recessed in the region of the first groove (14).

2. The separator (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that The bottom plate (17) of the first groove (14) has a convex portion (18) in the region where the first elastomeric seal (12) is recessed, wherein the convex portion extends in the longitudinal direction of the first groove (14) to the side of the first elastomeric seal (12).

3. The separator (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that The top plate (19) of the first web (16) has a convex portion (13), wherein the convex portion (13) of the top plate (19) of the web and the convex portion (18) of the bottom plate (17) are arranged to overlap, so that the metal layer (10) is thinner in the area where the convex portions (13, 18) overlap.

4. A separator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that wherein the second elastomeric seal (22) is spaced apart from the common side wall (20) and is recessed in the region of the second groove (24), or The second elastomeric seal (22) abuts against the common side wall (20).

5. A separator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that The first groove (14) is delimited by further side walls (15), wherein the first elastomeric seal (12) abuts against the other common side wall (15) or The first elastomeric seal (12) is spaced apart from the further side wall (15) and is recessed in the region.

6. A separator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that At least one of the two elastomeric seals (12, 22) has at least one sealing lip (61, 62), preferably two sealing lips (61, 62), which extend in the longitudinal direction of the elastomeric seal (12, 22) and have a protrusion extending toward the adjacent web, wherein a recess (71, 72) is formed in the elastomeric seal (12, 22) adjacent to the sealing lip, wherein the recess extends laterally to the side of the sealing lip (61, 62).

7. A separator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that The first groove (14) and / or the second groove (24) is / are substantially trapezoidal or rectangular in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal extension.

8. A separator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that The first elastomeric seal (12) extends on a base plate (17) of the first groove (14) in a longitudinal direction of the first groove (14), and / or wherein the second elastomeric seal (22) extends on a base plate (27) of the second groove (24) in a longitudinal direction of the second groove (24).

9. A separator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that The partition includes a third elastomeric seal (32) arranged in a third channel-shaped groove (34) on the first side (11) of the metal layer (10), wherein the third groove (34) forms a third web (36) on the second side (21) of the metal layer (10), wherein the third web (36) adjoins the second groove (24) on the second side (21), and the second web (26) adjoins the third groove (34) on the first side (11), such that the second groove (24) and the third groove (34) have a common side wall (30), wherein the third elastomeric seal (32) is spaced apart from the common side wall (30) and is recessed in the region.

10. A separator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that The separator (1) is constructed as a single-layer plate, and the metal layer (10) is made of titanium and / or stainless steel and / or has a thickness of at least 0.1 mm and / or at most 0.8 mm.

11. A separator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that The first elastomeric seal (12) and / or the second elastomeric seal (22) and / or the third elastomeric seal (32) are made of fluororubber (FKM) and / or ethylene-propylene-diene rubber (EPDM) and / or silicone.

12. A separator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that The first elastomeric seal (12) and / or the second elastomeric seal (22) and / or the third elastomeric seal (32) are molded onto the metal layer (10).

13. A separator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that, when appended to claim 9, The bottom plate (37) of the third groove (34) has a convex portion (38) in the recessed area of ​​the third elastomeric seal (32), wherein the convex portion extends to the side of the third elastomeric seal (32) in the longitudinal direction of the third groove (34), wherein the top plate (39) of the third web (36) has a convex portion (33), wherein the convex portion (33) of the top plate (39) of the web and the convex portion (38) of the bottom plate (37) of the groove are arranged to overlap, so that the metal layer (10) is thinner in the overlapping area of ​​the convex portions (33, 38).

14. A tool (100) for manufacturing a separator (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12 and / or for performing a method according to any one of claims 17 to 19, comprising: a first tool part (120) having a first injection channel (125) for supplying a first elastomeric compound, a second tool part (140) having a second injection channel (145) for supplying a second elastomeric compound, At least one of the tool parts (120, 140) is movable relative to the other tool part, and the tool parts (120, 140) are configured to receive the metal layer (10) in an open state and to inject the metal layer (10) on both sides in a closed state. The tool parts (120, 140) are configured such that in the closed state, a first cavity (130) is formed between the first tool part (120) and the first groove (14), and a second cavity (150) is formed between the second tool part (140) and the second groove (24), wherein the first elastomer compound can be injected from the first injection channel (125) into the first cavity (130) to form the first elastomer seal (12), and the second elastomer compound can be injected from the second injection channel (145) into the second cavity (150) to form the second elastomer seal (22).

15. The tool (100) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that The first tool part (120) has a first protrusion and the second tool part (140) has a second protrusion, wherein the first protrusion and the second protrusion face each other and are designed to clamp the metal layer (10) in the tool (100) during the injection molding process and locally seal the first cavity (130) and / or the second cavity (150), thereby hindering overmolding of the elastomeric compound.

16. The tool (100) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that Two mutually facing projections of the tool part (120, 140) are designed to locally thin the metal layer (10) arranged between the projections, wherein the smallest distance between the projections in the closing direction of the tool is typically at least 10% smaller than the thickness of the metal layer (10).

17. A method for manufacturing a separator (1) for an electrolyser, the separator (1) preferably being a separator (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, the method comprising the following steps: - providing a metal layer (10), the metal layer (10) having a first side (11) and a second side (21) opposite to the first side (11), the metal layer (10) having a first channel-shaped groove (14) on its first side (11), wherein the first groove forms a first web (16) on the second side (21) of the metal layer (10), wherein the metal layer (10) has a second channel-shaped groove (24) on its second side (21), wherein the second groove (24) forms a second web (26) on the first side (11) of the metal layer (10), wherein the second web (26) adjoins the first groove (14), and the first web (16) adjoins the second groove (24), such that the first groove (14) and the second groove (24) have a common side wall (20), - inserting the metal layer (10) between a first tool part (120) and a second tool part (140) of a tool (100), - closing the tool (100), - in the closed state of the tool (100), a first cavity (130) is formed between the first groove (14) and the first tool part (120), and a second cavity (150) is formed between the second groove (24) and the second tool part (140), - injecting the elastomeric compound from injection channels located in each respective tool part into the first cavity (130) and the second cavity (150), wherein the injection into the first cavity (130) and the injection into the second cavity (150) occur in parallel, or at least partially in parallel, - The first elastomeric seal (12) is formed by curing the first elastomeric compound in a first cavity associated with the first channel-shaped groove (14), and the second elastomeric seal (22) is formed by curing the second elastomeric compound in a second cavity associated with the second channel-shaped groove.

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