Water-free starting operation control method and system of air thermal management fuel cell system

By employing a waterless start-up and operation control method for air thermal management fuel cell systems, and utilizing a catalyst to carry out redox reactions within the fuel-side reformer, the risks of carbon buildup during low-temperature start-up and the high system complexity are resolved, achieving stable waterless power generation and cost reduction.

CN121507002APending Publication Date: 2026-02-10山东国创燃料电池技术创新中心有限公司
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202511372904.1
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-09-24
Publication Date
2026-02-10

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing fuel cell systems face the risk of carbon buildup during low-temperature startup, and conventional air thermal management systems are complex, costly, and difficult to achieve stable power generation without water.

Method used

The waterless start-up and operation control method of the air thermal management fuel cell system is adopted. Through oxygen purging and medium-temperature circulation of the anode tail gas of the fuel stack, the catalyst in the fuel-side reformer carries out oxidation-reduction reactions under different oxygen conditions, gradually consuming oxygen to generate carbon dioxide and water, controlling the oxygen-carbon ratio at the fuel-side inlet of the fuel stack, and achieving stable waterless power generation.

Benefits of technology

It enables waterless start-up and waterless operation under all working conditions, avoiding carbon buildup and deflagration, reducing system complexity and cost, and ensuring system reliability and stability.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The invention provides a water-free starting operation control method and system of an air thermal management fuel cell system, and relates to the technical field of fuel cell systems, the system comprises an air electrode side and a fuel electrode side, on the air electrode side, air enters from a fan and is divided into multiple paths through a valve, one path enters an air preheater, and the other path enters an air side reshaper; one path enters an anode tail gas cooler, the air entering the air side reshaping device adjusts the working temperature of a reformer, the air entering the anode tail gas cooler adjusts the temperature of anode tail gas circulating at an inlet of a circulating pump, and the air is mixed with the air passing through the fuel side reshaping device after being subjected to temperature adjustment through an air preheater and then enters an electric pile; on a fuel electrode side, fuel is divided into two paths after being decompressed from a fuel tank, one path enters a fuel side combustor to participate in combustion to release heat, and the other path is mixed with anode tail gas output from a circulating pump to enter a fuel side reformer, and enters a galvanic pile maintenance system for power generation after being reformed. According to the invention, water-free starting and all-working-condition water-free stable power generation operation are realized.
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Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the technical field of fuel cell systems, in particular to a water-free start-up operation control method and system of an air thermal management fuel cell system. BACKGROUND

[0002] The statements in this section merely provide background information related to the present disclosure and do not necessarily constitute the prior art.

[0003] The air thermal management fuel cell system refers to a comprehensive control system for ensuring efficient and stable operation of a fuel cell (such as a proton exchange membrane fuel cell, PEMFC) by optimizing parameters such as temperature, humidity, flow rate, and pressure of air (usually oxidant on the cathode side).

[0004] In conventional high-temperature fuel cell systems, a gas purge path often uses water vapor or nitrogen. Nitrogen sources include pure nitrogen tanks or air separation. Water vapor purge often includes a water evaporation system in the system, including a water tank, a water pump, a filter, an evaporator, and other components. The purge system greatly increases the complexity of the fuel cell system, not only increasing the system cost, but also reducing the system reliability. Direct use of fuel for fuel purge at low temperature has no risk of deflagration, but there is a great risk of carbon deposition on the fuel side during system warming-up.

[0005] Existing air thermal management systems for fuel cells rely on heat conduction of integrated heat components, but this scheme has a slow warming-up rate, and the coupling heat exchange of integrated heat components is complex, increasing the design cost. Different components have different lifespans, and integrated design can lead to uniform reduction of overall component lifespan, which is not conducive to long-term profit recovery of the system. SUMMARY

[0006] To solve the above problems, the present disclosure provides a water-free start-up operation control method and system of an air thermal management fuel cell system, which provides a strategy for realizing water-free start-up and water-free operation in all working conditions in the air thermal management system for fuel cells through oxygen consumption purge and anode tail gas intermediate temperature circulation, removes the water system in the fuel cell system, and achieves stable power generation operation without water.

[0007] According to some embodiments, the present disclosure adopts the following technical solution: The water-free start-up operation control system of the air thermal management fuel cell system includes an air electrode side and a fuel electrode side. The air electrode side includes an air-side combustor, a plurality of valves, an air preheater, an anode tail gas cooler, and a fan. The fuel electrode side includes a fuel tank, a fuel-side reformer, and a circulating pump. On the air electrode side, air enters from the blower and is divided into multiple paths by valves. One path of air enters the air preheater, another path enters the air-side reformer, and the third path enters the anode exhaust gas cooler. The air entering the air-side reformer regulates the operating temperature of the air-side reformer, while the air entering the anode exhaust gas cooler regulates the temperature of the anode exhaust gas circulating at the inlet of the circulating pump. After the temperature is regulated by the air preheater, the air is mixed with the air that has passed through the fuel-side reformer before entering the fuel cell stack. On the fuel electrode side, the fuel is depressurized from the fuel tank and split into two paths. One path enters the fuel-side burner to participate in combustion and release heat, while the other path mixes with the anode exhaust gas output from the circulating pump and enters the fuel-side reformer. After reforming, the fuel enters the stack sustaining system to generate electricity.

[0008] Furthermore, multiple valves on the air electrode side are connected in parallel to divide the air delivered by the fan into multiple paths, which enter the air-side rectifier, air preheater, and anode exhaust gas cooler respectively.

[0009] Furthermore, in the fuel cell stack, the cathode exhaust gas generated on the air side enters the air-side burner on the air electrode side, where it undergoes an oxidation-reduction reaction with the fuel or anode exhaust gas entering the air electrode side from the fuel side, releasing heat. The flue gas after the reaction transfers the heat to the air side to maintain the normal power generation operation of the air thermal management fuel cell system.

[0010] Furthermore, the air thermal management fuel cell system also includes a fuel valve, an igniter, an electronic load, and a DC power supply.

[0011] Furthermore, redox reactions occur in the fuel-side reformer on the fuel electrode side. During the oxygen-consuming phase, the air circulating in the initial fuel electrode side pipe reacts with a small amount of fuel to gradually consume oxygen and generate carbon dioxide and water. The different oxygen contents on both sides of the stack result in different open-circuit voltages.

[0012] Furthermore, during the reducing atmosphere stage, a small amount of fuel reacts with water and carbon dioxide to produce hydrogen and carbon monoxide. The different atmospheres on both sides of the fuel cell stack result in different open-circuit voltages.

[0013] According to some embodiments, the present disclosure adopts the following technical solutions: A waterless start-up and operation control method for an air thermal management fuel cell system, including: By utilizing the nickel, nickel oxide, platinum, and rhodium catalysts present in the fuel-side reformer on the fuel electrode side, the air-to-fuel ratio is controlled at the fuel ignition temperature to maintain either an oxygen-rich or oxygen-deficient state. This gradually consumes the oxygen in the fuel-side air, converting it into carbon dioxide and water vapor, thus purging the fuel path. The temperature circulation control of the anode tail gas of the fuel stack changes the oxygen-to-carbon ratio at the fuel-side inlet of the fuel stack, achieving stable waterless power generation operation.

[0014] According to some embodiments, the present disclosure adopts the following technical solutions: A computer program product includes a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the waterless start-up and operation control method for the air thermal management fuel cell system.

[0015] According to some embodiments, the present disclosure adopts the following technical solutions: A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is provided for storing computer instructions, which, when executed by a processor, implement the waterless start-up and operation control method for the air thermal management fuel cell system.

[0016] According to some embodiments, the present disclosure adopts the following technical solutions: An electronic device includes a processor, a memory, and a computer program; wherein the processor is connected to the memory, the computer program is stored in the memory, and when the electronic device is running, the processor executes the computer program stored in the memory to enable the electronic device to perform the waterless start-up operation control method for the air thermal management fuel cell system.

[0017] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of this disclosure are as follows: This disclosure discloses a waterless start-up and operation control system for an air thermal management fuel cell system. Through oxygen purging and mid-temperature circulation of the stack anode exhaust gas, it provides a system architecture and strategy for achieving waterless start-up and waterless operation under all operating conditions in a fuel cell air thermal management system. Utilizing catalysts such as nickel, nickel oxide, platinum, and rhodium present in the fuel-side reformer, and controlling the air-to-fuel ratio at the fuel ignition temperature, the system is in an oxygen-rich state (catalytic combustion reaction) and an oxygen-deficient state (partial oxidation reforming), respectively. This gradually consumes oxygen in the fuel-side air, converting it into carbon dioxide and water vapor, thus purging the fuel path. The mid-temperature circulation control system for the stack anode exhaust gas improves the oxygen-carbon ratio at the fuel-side inlet of the stack, achieving stable waterless power generation operation.

[0018] This disclosure discloses a waterless start-up and operation control method for an air-thermal management fuel cell system. During the oxygen-consuming phase, within the fuel-side reformer, the air circulating in the initial fuel-side pipeline undergoes an oxidation-reduction reaction with a small amount of fuel, gradually consuming oxygen and generating carbon dioxide and water. The difference in oxygen content on both sides of the stack results in different open-circuit voltages. During the reducing atmosphere phase, a small amount of fuel reacts with water, carbon dioxide, etc., to generate hydrogen, carbon monoxide, etc., again resulting in different open-circuit voltages on both sides of the stack. During the current-assisted heating and normal load-bearing phases, the water and carbon dioxide generated by the fuel cell stack are circulated to maintain the oxygen-to-carbon ratio at the stack inlet. By controlling the inlet temperature of the air-side reformer, deflagration during the oxygen-consuming phase is avoided. This disclosure achieves waterless start-up and operation without the need for purging equipment, preventing carbon buildup and deflagration, and enabling stable system operation at a lower cost.

[0019] This disclosed method for controlling the waterless start-up and operation of an air thermal management fuel cell system converts oxygen in the circulating air from an oxygen molecule state to a carbon dioxide and water molecule state. This prevents detonation upon contact with fuel gas and maintains the oxygen-to-carbon ratio to prevent carbon buildup. Under the action of a catalyst, fuel and air can undergo an oxidation-reduction reaction at low fuel concentrations and low temperatures, enabling waterless purging and start-up. Attached Figure Description

[0020] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this disclosure, are used to provide a further understanding of this disclosure. The illustrative embodiments of this disclosure and their descriptions are used to explain this disclosure and do not constitute an undue limitation of this disclosure.

[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the operating architecture of a conventional air thermal management fuel cell system. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the connection of the waterless start-up and operation control system of the air thermal management fuel cell system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Among them, 1. Fan; 2. Third valve; 3. Second valve; 4. First valve; 5. Air-side reformer; 6. Air preheater; 7. Air-side burner; 8. Fuel stack; 9. Fuel-side reformer; 10. Anode exhaust gas cooler; 11. Circulating pump; 12. Combustion tank; 13. Fuel-side burner; Figure 3 This is a flowchart of a waterless start-up and operation control method for an air thermal management fuel cell system according to an embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0022] The present disclosure will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0023] It should be noted that the following detailed descriptions are illustrative and intended to provide further explanation of this disclosure. Unless otherwise specified, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains.

[0024] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments according to this disclosure. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms “comprising” and / or “including” are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, devices, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0025] like Figure 1 As shown, the basic operating process of a conventional air thermal management fuel cell system is as follows: fuel enters from the fuel inlet 300 and is connected to the CRO via pipeline 300A. X Reactor 200, CRO X Catalyst 204 is added to reactor 200. CROX reactor 200 is connected to mixer 210 via pipeline 300B. The entire system is controlled by system controller 225, which serves as the core control unit. System controller 225 is connected to hotbox 100 via line 302A. The reaction system includes AEC anode exhaust condenser 140 (AEC, Anode Exhaust Condenser), which is connected to mixer 210 via pipeline 310B. Water source 206 is connected to AEC 140 via valve 160. Reactant 208 is located next to the pipeline. Combined Heat and Power (CHP) system 400 exhausts gas through pipeline 332. The exhaust gas enters exhaust tank 330. Sensor 209 is located next to the pipeline. Heat box 100 contains cathode recuperator 120, which is connected to stack 102 via pipeline 302C. Cathode recuperator 120 is connected to AEC anode exhaust condenser 140 outside the heat box via pipeline 302B.

[0026] The fuel cell stack 102 is connected to the ATO (Anode Tail Gas Oxidizer) 130 via line 304A to form a loop. The ATO 130 is connected to the Anode Recuperator 110 via line 312A, and the Anode Recuperator 110 is connected to the fuel cell stack 102 via line 300D. The ATO 130 is connected to the cathode recuperator 120 via line 304B.

[0027] The anode regenerator 110 has a three-layer structure inside, connected to the AEC 140 outside the heat box via pipeline 310A; and connected to the fuel cell stack 102 via pipeline 308 (forming a loop).

[0028] Mixer 210 is connected to AEC 140 via line 310B and to components inside the hot box 100 via line 320. A valve 212 is located next to line 310B. AEC 140 is connected to separator 170 via line 310A. Separator 170 is connected to anode regenerator 110 via line 310A. Mixer 210 is connected to anode regenerator 110 via line 300C.

[0029] Terminology Explanation: CRO X Catalytic partial oxidation reactor; ATO: Anode Tail Gas Oxidizer; AEC: Anode Exhaust Condenser. CHP: Combined Heat and Power System; Recuperator: A heat exchanger used for waste heat recovery. Stack: Fuel cell stack (core power generation component).

[0030] Example 1 One embodiment of this disclosure provides a waterless start-up and operation control system for an air thermal management fuel cell system, such as... Figure 2 As shown, it includes an air electrode side and a fuel electrode side. The air electrode side includes an air-side burner 7, multiple valves, an air preheater 6, an anode exhaust gas cooler 10, and a blower 1. The fuel electrode side includes a fuel tank 12, a fuel-side reformer 9, and a circulation pump 11. The multiple valves include a first valve 4, a second valve 3, and a third valve 2.

[0031] On the air electrode side, air enters from the fan 1 and is divided into multiple paths by valves. One path of air enters the air preheater 6 through the second valve 3, another path enters the air-side reformer 5 through the third valve 2, and the third path enters the anode tail gas cooler 10 through the first valve 4. The air entering the air-side reformer 5 is used to regulate the operating temperature of the air-side reformer, and the air entering the anode tail gas cooler is used to regulate the temperature of the anode tail gas circulating at the inlet of the circulating pump. After the temperature is regulated by the air preheater, the air is mixed with the air that has passed through the reformer and then enters the fuel cell stack 8. On the fuel electrode side, the fuel is depressurized from the fuel tank 12 and split into two paths. One path enters the fuel-side burner 13 to participate in combustion and release heat, while the other path mixes with the anode exhaust gas output from the circulating pump 11 and enters the fuel-side reformer 9. After reforming, the fuel enters the fuel stack 8 to maintain the power generation system.

[0032] Furthermore, on the air electrode side, the air delivered by the fan is divided into three pipelines for transmission, and a valve is installed on each pipeline for control, namely the first valve 4, the second valve 3 and the third valve 2, and the three valves are set in parallel.

[0033] As one embodiment, multiple valves on the air electrode side are connected in parallel, and each valve can be adjusted in opening. The valves divide the air delivered by the fan into multiple paths, which enter the air-side rectifier, air preheater and anode exhaust gas cooler respectively.

[0034] Specifically, on the air electrode side, air is transported by a fan and passes through pipelines controlled by three valves. On the pipeline controlled by the first valve, the air passes through the first valve and is then transported to the anode exhaust gas cooler. On the pipeline controlled by the second valve, the air passes through the second valve and is then transported to the air preheater. On the pipeline controlled by the third valve, the air passes through the third valve and enters the air-side reformer. On the fuel electrode side, fuel is depressurized from the fuel tank and split into two paths. One path enters the fuel-side burner to participate in combustion and release heat, while the other path mixes with the anode exhaust gas output from the circulating pump and enters the fuel-side reformer.

[0035] The air entering the air-side reformer on the air electrode side is used to regulate the operating temperature of the air-side reformer, and the air entering the anode exhaust gas cooler is used to regulate the temperature of the anode exhaust gas circulating at the inlet of the fuel electrode side circulation pump. The main air, heated by the air preheater, mixes with the air output from the fuel-side reformer on the fuel cell side before entering the fuel cell stack and then the stack sustaining system for power generation. The fuel cell stack is a gas-based fuel cell device.

[0036] As one embodiment, in the fuel cell stack, the cathode exhaust gas generated on the air side enters the air-side burner on the air electrode side, and undergoes an oxidation-reduction reaction with the fuel or anode exhaust gas entering the air electrode side from the fuel side, releasing heat. The flue gas after the reaction transfers the heat to the air side to maintain the normal power generation operation of the air thermal management fuel cell system.

[0037] As one embodiment, the air thermal management fuel cell system further includes a fuel valve, an igniter, an electronic load, and a DC power supply. The electronic load is connected to the fuel cell stack, serving as the power output and controlling the current load. The fuel valve and igniter are matching components for the burner, acting as the starting components for burner ignition. The DC power supply is the power supply element for the device, providing power for its operation.

[0038] The working principle of the waterless start-up and operation control system of the air thermal management fuel cell system disclosed herein includes: redox reactions occur in the fuel-side reformer on the fuel electrode side. In the oxygen consumption stage, the air circulating in the initial fuel electrode side pipeline reacts with a small amount of fuel to gradually consume oxygen and generate carbon dioxide and water. The oxygen content on both sides of the stack is different, thus generating different open-circuit voltages. In the reducing atmosphere stage, a small amount of fuel reacts with water and carbon dioxide to generate hydrogen and carbon monoxide. The atmosphere on both sides of the stack is different, thus generating different open-circuit voltages. In the current-assisted heating and normal load stage, the water and carbon dioxide generated by the power generation of the stack are circulated to maintain the oxygen-carbon ratio at the stack inlet.

[0039] As one embodiment, catalysts such as nickel, nickel oxide, platinum, and rhodium are present in the fuel-side reformer. These catalysts are widely distributed within the reformer, partial oxidation reformer, and fuel cell stack. Utilizing the catalysts present in the fuel-side reformer, and controlling the air-to-fuel ratio at the fuel ignition temperature, the fuel is placed in either an oxygen-rich state (catalytic combustion reaction) or an oxygen-deficient state (partial oxidation reforming). This gradually consumes oxygen in the fuel-side air, converting it into carbon dioxide and water vapor, thus purging the fuel path. The circulation rate of the fuel cell stack anode exhaust gas medium-temperature circulation control system improves the oxygen-to-carbon ratio at the fuel-side inlet of the fuel cell stack, achieving stable hydrophobic power generation operation.

[0040] Example 2 One embodiment of this disclosure provides a waterless start-up and operation control method for an air thermal management fuel cell system, comprising: In the oxygen-consuming stage, within the fuel-side reformer, the air circulating in the initial fuel-side pipeline undergoes a redox reaction with a small amount of fuel, gradually consuming oxygen to generate carbon dioxide and water. The different oxygen contents on both sides of the fuel cell stack result in different open-circuit voltages. In the reducing atmosphere stage, a small amount of fuel reacts with water, carbon dioxide, etc., to generate hydrogen, carbon monoxide, etc., and the different atmospheres on both sides of the fuel cell stack result in different open-circuit voltages. In the current-assisted heating and normal load-bearing stage, the water and carbon dioxide generated by the fuel cell stack are circulated to maintain the oxygen-carbon ratio control at the fuel cell stack inlet. The core lies in controlling the inlet temperature of the air-side reformer to prevent deflagration during the oxygen-consuming stage of the system.

[0041] As one example, such as Figure 3 As shown, a waterless start-up and operation control method for an air thermal management fuel cell system is described. By adjusting the temperature and valve opening, the inlet temperature of the air-side reformer is controlled, thereby achieving the purpose of waterless operation and power generation. The specific implementation steps are as follows: Step 1: Start the fan, open the first valve, the second valve, and the third valve. The opening of the second valve is adjusted according to the set temperature T1 of the circulating pump inlet, and the opening of the third valve is adjusted according to the set temperature T2 of the air-side rectifier inlet. Step 2: Turn on the circulation pump and change the circulation volume by setting the speed. The speed setting should not exceed the maximum allowable circulation flow rate on the fuel side of the fuel stack. Step 3: The igniter is working, and the fuel valve of the air-side burner is opened. The opening degree is set according to the system air volume and the outlet temperature of the air-side burner. During this process, it is determined whether the air-side burner has ignited successfully. If it has, proceed to the next step, Step 4. If it has failed, repeat the ignition process three times. If the ignition fails three times, perform maintenance work. Step 4: The system sets the allowable heating rate to enter the normal heating stage. Once the inlet temperature of the air-side reformer reaches value A, it remains constant, and then enters the oxygen-consuming purging stage. Value A is lower than the fuel ignition temperature and catalysis can be performed. The catalytic temperature can be 300℃~500℃. The highest temperature point on the fuel side of the system is in the fuel-side reformer to avoid excessively high stack temperature. Among them, value A is the set value of the inlet temperature of the air-side reformer, which is 300~600℃, preferably 300~500℃.

[0042] Step 5: During the oxygen purging stage, the open-circuit voltage of the fuel cell stack is measured (to determine the purging status). The air-side reformer inlet temperature A is maintained by adjusting the opening of the third valve. During the oxygen purging stage, fuel is continuously introduced into the fuel-side reformer at the minimum flow rate. The change in the open-circuit voltage of the fuel cell stack is observed. The open-circuit voltage gradually increases to the theoretical value B. The theoretical value B is related to the number of cells in the fuel cell stack and the oxygen content on the fuel side. The open-circuit voltage D is also the theoretical value. The open-circuit voltage D is related to the number of cells in the fuel cell stack, the amount of fuel on the fuel side, and the temperature.

[0043] Step 6: After oxygen purging, the process enters the fuel-side reducing atmosphere maintenance stage. The air-side reformer inlet temperature can be raised to value C (this value is between value A and value E, representing a transitional temperature from value A to value E). The open-circuit voltage D is maintained at a reducing atmosphere on the fuel side without carbon buildup, regulated by the opening of the third valve. Continuous or discontinuous fuel replenishment can be performed during this process to maintain the reducing atmosphere. The battery continues to heat up to value E, preparing for current-assisted heating. Value E is the minimum load temperature of the battery, varying depending on the type of battery, typically ranging from 400 to 700°C.

[0044] Step 7: Entering the current-assisted heating and normal load power generation stage. Before the current-assisted heating stage, due to the high circulation rate and high oxygen-carbon ratio, the amount of fuel continuously fed into the system can be calculated based on parameters such as the load current and circulation rate. The minimum operating voltage and the maximum oxygen-carbon ratio are set, and the load current is gradually increased. Once the system enters the normal load current variable operating condition where the fuel quantity can be changed at will, the circulation rate is adjusted according to parameters such as current and fuel quantity to achieve hydrothermal power generation under a certain oxygen-carbon ratio.

[0045] Example 3 One embodiment of this disclosure provides a computer program product, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the waterless start-up and operation control method for the air thermal management fuel cell system. The specific implementation process includes: Step 1: Start the fan, open the first valve, the second valve, and the third valve. The opening of the second valve is adjusted according to the set temperature T1 of the circulating pump inlet, and the opening of the third valve is adjusted according to the set temperature T2 of the air-side rectifier inlet. Step 2: Turn on the circulation pump and change the circulation volume by setting the speed. The speed setting should not exceed the maximum allowable circulation flow rate on the fuel side of the fuel stack. Step 3: The igniter is working, and the fuel valve of the air-side burner is opened. The opening degree is set according to the system air volume and the outlet temperature of the air-side burner. During this process, it is determined whether the air-side burner has ignited successfully. If it has, proceed to the next step, Step 4. If it has failed, repeat the ignition process three times. If the ignition fails three times, perform maintenance work. Step 4: The system sets the allowable heating rate to enter the normal heating stage. When the inlet temperature of the air-side reformer reaches the A value, it remains unchanged and enters the oxygen-consuming purging stage. The A value is lower than the fuel ignition temperature and catalysis can be carried out. The catalytic temperature can be 300℃~500℃. The highest temperature point on the fuel side of the system is in the fuel-side reformer to avoid the stack being too hot. Step 5: During the oxygen-consuming purging stage, the open-circuit voltage of the fuel cell stack is detected (to determine the purging status). The air-side burner inlet temperature A is maintained by adjusting the opening of the third valve. When entering the oxygen-consuming purging stage, fuel is continuously introduced into the fuel-side reformer at the minimum flow rate. The change in the open-circuit voltage of the fuel cell stack is observed. The open-circuit voltage gradually increases to the theoretical value B. The theoretical value B is related to the number of cells in the fuel cell stack and the oxygen content on the fuel side.

[0046] Step 6: After the oxygen purging is completed, the fuel-side reducing atmosphere maintenance stage begins. The air-side reformer inlet temperature can be raised to value C. The open-circuit voltage D is maintained on the fuel side by adjusting the opening of the third valve. This is a reducing atmosphere that does not accumulate carbon. During this process, continuous or discontinuous fuel replenishment can be carried out to maintain the reducing atmosphere. The battery continues to heat up to value E, preparing for current-assisted heating.

[0047] Step 7: Entering the current-assisted heating and normal load power generation stage. Before the current-assisted heating stage, due to the high circulation rate and high oxygen-carbon ratio, the amount of fuel continuously fed into the system can be calculated based on parameters such as the load current and circulation rate. The minimum operating voltage and the maximum oxygen-carbon ratio are set, and the load current is gradually increased. Once the system enters the normal load current variable operating condition where the fuel quantity can be changed at will, the circulation rate is adjusted according to parameters such as current and fuel quantity to achieve hydrothermal power generation under a certain oxygen-carbon ratio.

[0048] Example 4 One embodiment of this disclosure provides a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium for storing computer instructions. When executed by a processor, the computer instructions implement the waterless start-up and operation control method for the air thermal management fuel cell system, specifically including: Step 1: Start the fan, open the first valve, the second valve, and the third valve. The opening of the second valve 2 is adjusted according to the set temperature T1 of the circulating pump inlet, and the opening of the third valve is adjusted according to the set temperature T2 of the air-side rectifier inlet. Step 2: Turn on the circulation pump and change the circulation volume by setting the speed. The speed setting should not exceed the maximum allowable circulation flow rate on the fuel side of the fuel stack. Step 3: The igniter is working, and the fuel valve of the air-side burner is opened. The opening degree is set according to the system air volume and the outlet temperature of the air-side burner. During this process, it is determined whether the burner has ignited successfully. If it has, proceed to the next step, Step 4. If it has failed, repeat the ignition process three times. If the burner fails to ignite after three attempts, perform maintenance work. Step 4: The system sets the allowable heating rate to enter the normal heating stage. When the reformer inlet temperature reaches the A value, it remains unchanged and enters the oxygen-consuming purging stage. The A value is lower than the fuel ignition temperature and catalysis can be carried out. The catalytic temperature can be 300℃~500℃. The highest temperature point on the fuel side of the system is in the fuel-side reformer to avoid the stack being too hot. Step 5: During the oxygen purging stage, the open-circuit voltage of the fuel cell stack is detected (to determine the purging status). The air-side reformer inlet temperature A is maintained by adjusting the opening of the third valve. When entering the oxygen purging stage, fuel is continuously introduced into the fuel-side reformer at the minimum flow rate. The change in the open-circuit voltage of the fuel cell stack is observed. The open-circuit voltage gradually increases to the theoretical value B. The theoretical value B is related to the number of cells in the fuel cell stack and the oxygen content on the fuel side.

[0049] Step 6: After the oxygen purging is completed, the fuel-side reducing atmosphere maintenance stage begins. The air-side reformer inlet temperature can be raised to value C. The open-circuit voltage D is maintained on the fuel side by adjusting the opening of the third valve. This is a reducing atmosphere that does not accumulate carbon. During this process, continuous or discontinuous fuel replenishment can be carried out to maintain the reducing atmosphere. The battery continues to heat up to value E, preparing for current-assisted heating.

[0050] Step 7: Entering the current-assisted heating and normal load power generation stage. Before the current-assisted heating stage, due to the high circulation rate and high oxygen-carbon ratio, the amount of fuel continuously fed into the system can be calculated based on parameters such as the load current and circulation rate. The minimum operating voltage and the maximum oxygen-carbon ratio are set, and the load current is gradually increased. Once the system enters the normal load current variable operating condition where the fuel quantity can be changed at will, the circulation rate is adjusted according to parameters such as current and fuel quantity to achieve hydrothermal power generation under a certain oxygen-carbon ratio.

[0051] Example 5 One embodiment of this disclosure provides an electronic device, including a processor, a memory, and a computer program; wherein the processor is connected to the memory, and the computer program is stored in the memory. When the electronic device is running, the processor executes the computer program stored in the memory to cause the electronic device to execute the waterless start-up operation control method for the air thermal management fuel cell system, specifically including: Step 1: Start the fan, open the first valve, the second valve, and the third valve. The opening of the second valve is adjusted according to the set temperature T1 of the circulating pump inlet, and the opening of the third valve is adjusted according to the set temperature T2 of the air-side rectifier inlet. Step 2: Turn on the circulation pump and change the circulation volume by setting the speed. The speed setting should not exceed the maximum allowable circulation flow rate on the fuel side of the fuel stack. Step 3: The igniter is working, and the fuel valve of the air-side burner is opened. The opening degree is set according to the system air volume and the outlet temperature of the air-side burner. During this process, it is determined whether the air-side burner has ignited successfully. If it has, proceed to the next step, Step 4. If it has failed, repeat the ignition process three times. If the ignition fails three times, perform maintenance work. Step 4: The system sets the allowable heating rate to enter the normal heating stage. When the inlet temperature of the air-side reformer reaches the A value, it remains unchanged and enters the oxygen-consuming purging stage. The A value is lower than the fuel ignition temperature and catalysis can be carried out. The catalytic temperature can be 300℃~500℃. The highest temperature point on the fuel side of the system is in the fuel-side reformer to avoid the stack being too hot. Step 5: During the oxygen purging stage, the open-circuit voltage of the fuel cell stack is detected (to determine the purging status). The air-side reformer inlet temperature A is maintained by adjusting the opening of the third valve. When entering the oxygen purging stage, fuel is continuously introduced into the fuel-side reformer at the minimum flow rate. The change in the open-circuit voltage of the fuel cell stack is observed. The open-circuit voltage gradually increases to the theoretical value B. The theoretical value B is related to the number of cells in the fuel cell stack and the oxygen content on the fuel side.

[0052] Step 6: After the oxygen purging is completed, the fuel-side reducing atmosphere maintenance stage begins. The air-side reformer inlet temperature can be raised to value C. The open-circuit voltage D is maintained on the fuel side by adjusting the opening of the third valve. This is a reducing atmosphere that does not accumulate carbon. During this process, continuous or discontinuous fuel replenishment can be carried out to maintain the reducing atmosphere. The battery continues to heat up to value E, preparing for current-assisted heating.

[0053] Step 7: Entering the current-assisted heating and normal load power generation stage. Before the current-assisted heating stage, due to the high circulation rate and high oxygen-carbon ratio, the amount of fuel continuously fed into the system can be calculated based on parameters such as the load current and circulation rate. The minimum operating voltage and the maximum oxygen-carbon ratio are set, and the load current is gradually increased. Once the system enters the normal load current variable operating condition where the fuel quantity can be changed at will, the circulation rate is adjusted according to parameters such as current and fuel quantity to achieve hydrothermal power generation under a certain oxygen-carbon ratio.

[0054] This disclosure is described with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to embodiments of this disclosure. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, embedded processor, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create a machine for implementing the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams. Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 A device that provides the functions specified in one or more boxes.

[0055] These computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing equipment to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable equipment to produce a computer-implemented process, thereby providing instructions that execute on the computer or other programmable equipment for implementing the process. Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 The steps of the function specified in one or more boxes.

[0056] While the specific embodiments of this disclosure have been described above in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, this is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art should understand that various modifications or variations that can be made by those skilled in the art without creative effort based on the technical solutions of this disclosure are still within the scope of protection of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A waterless start-up and operation control system for an air thermal management fuel cell system, characterized in that, It includes an air electrode side and a fuel electrode side. The air electrode side includes an air-side burner, multiple valves, an air preheater, an anode exhaust gas cooler, and a fan. The fuel electrode side includes a fuel tank, a fuel-side reformer, and a circulation pump. On the air electrode side, air enters from the blower and is divided into multiple paths by valves. One path of air enters the air preheater, another path enters the air-side reformer, and the third path enters the anode exhaust gas cooler. The air entering the air-side reformer regulates the operating temperature of the air-side reformer, while the air entering the anode exhaust gas cooler regulates the temperature of the anode exhaust gas circulating at the inlet of the circulating pump. After the temperature is regulated by the air preheater, the air is mixed with the air that has passed through the fuel-side reformer before entering the fuel cell stack. On the fuel electrode side, the fuel is depressurized from the fuel tank and split into two paths. One path enters the fuel-side burner to participate in combustion and release heat, while the other path mixes with the anode exhaust gas output from the circulating pump and enters the fuel-side reformer. After reforming, the fuel enters the stack sustaining system to generate electricity.

2. The waterless start-up and operation control system for the air thermal management fuel cell system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The multiple valves on the air electrode side are connected in parallel to divide the air delivered by the fan into multiple paths, which enter the air-side rectifier, air preheater and anode exhaust gas cooler respectively.

3. The waterless start-up and operation control system for the air thermal management fuel cell system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, In the fuel cell stack, the cathode exhaust gas generated on the air side enters the air-side burner on the air electrode side, where it undergoes an oxidation-reduction reaction with the fuel or anode exhaust gas entering the air electrode side from the fuel side, releasing heat. The flue gas after the reaction transfers the heat to the air side to maintain the normal power generation operation of the air thermal management fuel cell system.

4. The waterless start-up and operation control system for the air thermal management fuel cell system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The air thermal management fuel cell system also includes a fuel valve, an igniter, an electronic load, and a DC power supply.

5. The waterless start-up and operation control system for the air thermal management fuel cell system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Redox reactions occur in the fuel-side reformer on the fuel electrode side. During the oxygen-consuming phase, the air circulating in the initial fuel electrode side pipe reacts with a small amount of fuel to gradually consume oxygen and generate carbon dioxide and water. The different oxygen contents on both sides of the stack result in different open-circuit voltages.

6. The waterless start-up and operation control system for the air thermal management fuel cell system as described in claim 5, characterized in that, During the reducing atmosphere stage, a small amount of fuel reacts with water and carbon dioxide to produce hydrogen and carbon monoxide. The different atmospheres on both sides of the fuel cell stack result in different open-circuit voltages.

7. The waterless start-up and operation control method for an air thermal management fuel cell system as described in any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, include: By utilizing the nickel, nickel oxide, platinum, and rhodium catalysts present in the fuel-side reformer on the fuel electrode side, the air-to-fuel ratio is controlled at the fuel ignition temperature to maintain either an oxygen-rich or oxygen-deficient state. This gradually consumes the oxygen in the fuel-side air, converting it into carbon dioxide and water vapor, thus purging the fuel path. The temperature circulation control of the anode tail gas of the fuel stack changes the oxygen-to-carbon ratio at the fuel-side inlet of the fuel stack, achieving stable waterless power generation operation.

8. A computer program product, comprising a computer program, characterized in that, When the computer program is executed by the processor, it implements the waterless start-up and operation control method of the air thermal management fuel cell system as described in claim 7.

9. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is used to store computer instructions, which, when executed by a processor, implement the waterless start-up and operation control method for an air thermal management fuel cell system as described in claim 7.

10. An electronic device, characterized in that, include: The device includes a processor, a memory, and a computer program; wherein the processor is connected to the memory, and the computer program is stored in the memory. When the electronic device is running, the processor executes the computer program stored in the memory to enable the electronic device to perform the waterless start-up operation control method for the air thermal management fuel cell system as described in claim 7.