Core body for fuel cell humidifier and fuel cell humidifier

Abstract

The invention relates to a core for a fuel cell humidifier and the fuel cell humidifier. A core for humidifying a dry gas to be supplied to a fuel cell stack using a wet gas, and the core includes: an inner case having openings at both ends; a plurality of hollow fiber membranes, wherein the plurality of hollow fiber membranes are accommodated in the inner shell; a first fixing layer for fixing one side of the hollow fiber membrane; a second fixing layer for fixing the other side of the hollow fiber membrane; and a plurality of first coating portions attached to one side of each of the hollow fiber membranes and coupled to the first fixing layer so as to protrude from the first fixing layer toward the second fixing layer, each of the first coating portions is formed to have a lower hardness than the first fixing layer.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a fuel cell humidifier for supplying humid gas to a fuel cell. Background Technology

[0002] Unlike ordinary chemical batteries such as dry cell batteries or storage batteries, fuel cells have the advantage of being able to generate electricity continuously as long as hydrogen and oxygen are supplied, and have an efficiency that is about twice that of internal combustion engines due to the absence of heat loss.

[0003] Furthermore, because fuel cells directly convert the chemical energy generated from the combination of hydrogen and oxygen into electrical energy, they emit fewer pollutants. Therefore, fuel cells not only have the advantage of being environmentally friendly, but also alleviate concerns about resource depletion due to increased energy consumption.

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

[0005] These fuel cells operate on essentially the same principle, but differ in the type of fuel used, operating temperature, catalyst, and electrolyte. Among them, PEMFCs are considered the most promising batteries not only in small-scale stationary power generation units but also in transportation systems because they operate at lower temperatures and have a high output power density that allows for miniaturization compared to other fuel cells.

[0006] The most important factor in improving PEMFC performance is maintaining moisture content by supplying a predetermined amount or more of moisture to the polymer electrolyte membrane (or proton exchange membrane (PEM)) of the membrane electrode assembly (MEA). This is because power generation efficiency decreases rapidly when the PEM dries out.

[0007] Methods for humidifying PEMs include: 1) a bubbler humidification method that fills the internal pressure vessel with water and uses a diffuser to allow the target gas to pass through the water to supply moisture; 2) a direct injection method that calculates the amount of moisture required for the fuel cell reaction and supplies that amount of moisture directly to the gas flow pipe via a solenoid valve; 3) a humidification method that uses a polymer separation membrane to supply moisture to the gas flow layer, etc.

[0008] Among them, the membrane humidification method of humidifying PEM by using a membrane that selectively permeates only the air supplied to the PEM with water vapor is advantageous because it allows the humidifier to be lightweight and compact.

[0009] The selective permeation membrane used in membrane humidification methods is preferably a hollow fiber membrane with a large permeation area per unit volume when formed into a module. In other words, when using a hollow fiber membrane to manufacture a humidifier, the following advantages exist: because the hollow fiber membrane with its large contact area can be highly integrated, humidification of the fuel cell is sufficient even with a small capacity; low-cost materials can be used; and the moisture and heat contained in the high-temperature exhaust gas from the fuel cell can be collected and reused by the humidifier.

[0010] Figure 1 This is a schematic exploded perspective view of a conventional fuel cell humidifier.

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

[0012] One of the covers 120 will transmit externally supplied air to the humidification module 110, and the other will transmit air humidified by the humidification module 110 to the fuel cell stack.

[0013] The humidification module 110 includes an intermediate housing 111 and a plurality of hollow fiber membranes 112 within the intermediate housing 111. The intermediate housing 111 includes an exhaust gas inlet 111a and an exhaust gas outlet 111b. Both ends of the hollow fiber membranes 112 are encapsulated in a rigid potting layer 113. The rigid potting layer 113 is typically formed by curing a liquid polymer (e.g., liquid polyurethane resin) via a casting process. The ends of the hollow fiber membranes 112 encapsulated within the rigid potting layer 113 and a resin layer 114 between the rigid potting layer 113 and the intermediate housing 111 block the internal space of the cover portion 120 from the internal space of the intermediate housing 111. Similar to the rigid potting layer 113, the resin layer 114 is typically formed by curing a liquid polymer (e.g., liquid polyurethane resin) via a casting process.

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

[0015] In this configuration, the ends of the hollow fiber membrane 112 are typically directly encapsulated into the rigid encapsulation layer 113, and the exhaust gas introduced into the intermediate housing 111 flows towards the boundary between the hollow fiber membrane 112 and the rigid encapsulation layer 113. Therefore, conventionally, since the pressure of the exhaust gas introduced into the intermediate housing 111 is directly applied to the boundary between the hollow fiber membrane 112 and the rigid encapsulation layer 113, there is a problem of damage or destruction of the portion of the hollow fiber membrane 112 located at the boundary between the hollow fiber membrane 112 and the rigid encapsulation layer 113. Summary of the Invention

[0016] Technical issues

[0017] This invention aims to solve the above-mentioned problems and to provide a core and fuel cell humidifier for use in fuel cell humidifiers, which can reduce damage or breakage occurring in hollow fiber membranes.

[0018] Technical solution

[0019] The present invention may include the following configurations to achieve the above objectives.

[0020] A core for a fuel cell humidifier according to the invention, the core being disposed within the fuel cell humidifier configured to humidify dry gas supplied to a fuel cell stack using moist gas, the core comprising: an inner shell having openings at both ends; a plurality of hollow fiber membranes housed within the inner shell; a first fixing layer fixing one side of the hollow fiber membranes; a second fixing layer fixing the other side of the hollow fiber membranes; and a plurality of first coating portions bonded to one side of the hollow fiber membranes and bonded to the first fixing layer to protrude from the first fixing layer toward the second fixing layer. Each of the first coating portions may be formed to have a lower hardness than the first fixing layer.

[0021] The fuel cell humidifier according to the present invention includes: a humidification module, a first cover, and a second cover. The humidification module uses humidified gas to humidify dry gas supplied to a fuel cell stack. The first cover is connected to one end of the humidification module, and the second cover is connected to the other end of the humidification module. The humidification module may include an open-ended intermediate shell and at least one core housed within the intermediate shell. The core may include: an inner shell having openings at both ends; a plurality of hollow fiber membranes housed within the inner shell; a first fixing layer fixing one side of the hollow fiber membranes; a second fixing layer fixing the other side of the hollow fiber membranes; and a plurality of first coating portions bonded to the side of the hollow fiber membranes and to the first fixing layer to protrude from the first fixing layer toward the second fixing layer. Each of the first coating portions may be formed to have a lower hardness than the first fixing layer.

[0022] The fuel cell humidifier according to the present invention includes a humidification module, a first cover, and a second cover. The humidification module uses humidified gas to humidify dry gas supplied to a fuel cell stack. The first cover is connected to one end of the humidification module, and the second cover is connected to the other end of the humidification module. The humidification module may include: an intermediate housing open at both ends; a plurality of hollow fiber membranes housed within the intermediate housing; a first fixing layer fixing one side of the hollow fiber membranes; a second fixing layer fixing the other side of the hollow fiber membranes; and a plurality of first coating portions bonded to one side of the hollow fiber membranes and to the first fixing layer to protrude from the first fixing layer toward the second fixing layer. Each of the first coating portions may be formed to have a lower hardness than the first fixing layer.

[0023] Effects of the present invention

[0024] This invention reduces the risk of pipeline disconnection, damage, or breakage in hollow fiber membranes. According to this invention, the humidification performance of the hollow fiber membrane can be maintained, and the maintenance costs of the hollow fiber membrane and the like can be reduced, thereby contributing to a reduction in the operating costs of the fuel cell system. Furthermore, according to this invention, the maintenance cycle for the hollow fiber membrane and the like can be increased, thereby contributing to a higher operating rate of the fuel cell system.

[0025] This invention reduces the consumption of soft materials. According to this invention, manufacturing costs can be reduced, thereby further enhancing product competitiveness. Attached Figure Description

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

[0027] Figure 2 This is a schematic exploded perspective view of a fuel cell humidifier according to the present invention.

[0028] Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 A schematic exploded cross-sectional view of the fuel cell humidifier according to the present invention, line II.

[0029] Figure 4 It is along Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of the fuel cell humidifier according to the present invention, line II.

[0030] Figure 5 and Figure 6 This is a schematic plan view of the core in the fuel cell humidifier according to the present invention.

[0031] Figures 7 to 9 This is a conceptual diagram showing a first coating portion, a first fixing layer, a second coating portion, and a second fixing layer on both sides of each of the hollow fiber membranes connected to each of the hollow fiber membranes in the fuel cell humidifier according to the invention.

[0032] Figure 10 This is a conceptual diagram showing the internal portion of the intermediate housing in a fuel cell humidifier according to a modified embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0033] In the following, embodiments of the fuel cell humidifier according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Since the core of the fuel cell humidifier according to the present invention can be included in the fuel cell humidifier according to the present invention, the core will be described concurrently with the description of the fuel cell humidifier according to the present invention. Figures 7 to 10 In the image, two parallel dashed lines of alternating lengths represent ellipses. Figure 7 In the middle, shading is added to the first coating portion, the first fixing layer, the second coating portion, and the second fixing layer to distinguish the components. Figure 8 and Figure 9 The alternating long and two short dashed lines indicate the first and second fixed layers.

[0034] Reference Figures 2 to 4 The fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the present invention uses humid gas to humidify dry gas supplied to a fuel cell stack (not shown). The humid gas can be discharged from the fuel cell stack. The dry gas can be fuel gas or air. The dry gas can be humidified by the humid gas and supplied to the fuel cell stack. The fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the present invention includes a humidification module 2 for humidifying dry gas, a first cover 3 connected to one end of the humidification module 2, and a second cover 4 connected to the other end of the humidification module 2.

[0035] Reference Figures 2 to 4The humidification module 2 humidifies the dry gas. A first cover 3 can be connected to one end of the humidification module 2. A second cover 4 can be connected to the other end of the humidification module 2. The humidification module 2 can supply humidified dry gas to the fuel cell stack using a first gas and a second gas. When the first gas is a dry gas, the second gas can be a wet gas. In this case, the first gas can be humidified by the second gas and supplied to the fuel cell stack. When the first gas is a wet gas, the second gas can be a dry gas. In this case, the second gas can be humidified by the first gas and supplied to the fuel cell stack.

[0036] The humidification module 2 includes an intermediate housing 21 and at least one core 22.

[0037] The intermediate housing 21 is connected to the core 22. The core 22 can be accommodated within the intermediate housing 21. The intermediate housing 21 is open at both ends. In this case, a receiving hole 211 can be formed in the intermediate housing 21. The receiving hole 211 can be formed to pass through the intermediate housing 21 in a first axial direction (X-axis direction). At least one core 22 can be disposed in the receiving hole 211.

[0038] The intermediate housing 21 may include an intermediate body 210. The intermediate body 210 accommodates a core 22. The core 22 is disposed within the intermediate body 210 for accommodation. At least one core 22 may be accommodated within the intermediate body 210. A receiving hole 211 may be formed to pass through the intermediate body 210 in a first axial direction (X-axis direction).

[0039] The intermediate housing 21 may include an intermediate inlet 212 and an intermediate outlet 213. The intermediate inlet 212 allows a first gas to be introduced into the intermediate body 210. The intermediate outlet 213 allows the first gas to be discharged from an internal portion of the intermediate body 210. The intermediate outlet 213 and the intermediate inlet 212 may protrude from the intermediate body 210. The intermediate outlet 213 and the intermediate inlet 212 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a first axial direction (X-axis direction). The intermediate outlet 213, the intermediate inlet 212, and the intermediate body 210 may be integrally formed.

[0040] The core 22 is disposed within the intermediate housing 21. The core 22 can be housed within the intermediate body 210. The core 22 comprises a plurality of hollow fiber membranes 221. The hollow fiber membranes 221 and the core 22 can be connected and modularized. Therefore, the hollow fiber membranes 221 can be installed in the intermediate housing 21 by connecting the core 22 to the intermediate housing 21. Thus, in the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the invention, the ease of installation, separation, and replacement operations for the hollow fiber membranes 221 can be improved. Each of the hollow fiber membranes 221 may include a hollow portion to allow a second gas to pass through it.

[0041] The core 22 may include an inner housing 222.

[0042] The inner housing 222 includes openings at both ends, and the hollow fiber membrane 221 is housed within the inner housing 222. The hollow fiber membrane 221 can be modularized by being disposed within the inner housing 222. Each of the hollow fiber membranes 221 may comprise a polymer membrane formed of polysulfone resin, polyethersulfone resin, sulfonated polysulfone resin, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) resin, polyacrylonitrile (PAN) resin, polyimide resin, polyamide-imide resin, polyesterimide resin, or mixtures of two or more thereof.

[0043] The core 22 may include a first fixing layer 223. The first fixing layer 223 fixes one side of the hollow fiber membrane 221. The first fixing layer 223 may close an opening formed in one end of the inner housing 222. In this case, the first fixing layer 223 may be formed so as not to obstruct the hollow portion of the hollow fiber membrane 221. The first fixing layer 223 may be formed by curing a liquid polymer, such as liquid polyurethane resin, via a casting process. A portion of the first fixing layer 223 may be located within the inner housing 222, and the remainder may protrude outward from the inner housing 222. The first fixing layer 223 may fix the hollow fiber membrane 221 and one side of the inner housing 222.

[0044] The core 22 may include a second fixing layer 224. The second fixing layer 224 fixes the other side of the hollow fiber membrane 221. The second fixing layer 224 may close an opening formed in the other end of the inner housing 222. In this case, the second fixing layer 224 may be formed so as not to obstruct the hollow portion of the hollow fiber membrane 221. The second fixing layer 224 may be formed by curing a liquid polymer (e.g., liquid polyurethane resin) via a casting process. A portion of the second fixing layer 224 may be located within the inner housing 222, and the remainder may protrude outward from the inner housing 222. The second fixing layer 224 may fix the hollow fiber membrane 221 and the other side of the inner housing 222. Since the second fixing layer 224 and the first fixing layer 223 are formed to not obstruct the hollow portion of the hollow fiber membrane 221, the second gas can be supplied to the hollow portion of the hollow fiber membrane 221 without being obstructed by the second fixing layer 224 and the first fixing layer 223, and discharged from the hollow portion of the hollow fiber membrane 221 without being obstructed by the second fixing layer 224 and the first fixing layer 223.

[0045] refer to Figures 2 to 6 The core 22 may include an inner inlet 225 and an inner outlet 226.

[0046] An inner inlet 225 is formed in the inner housing 222. The inner inlet 225 may be formed in at least one side surface of the inner housing 222. The side surface of the inner housing 222 may be a surface configured to surround an inner bore formed to pass through the inner housing 222 to form openings at both ends of the inner housing 222. The inner bore may be formed to extend in a first axial direction (X-axis direction) and pass through the inner housing 222. The inner inlet 225 may be disposed toward at least one sidewall of the intermediate housing 21. The inner inlet 225 may allow a first gas to be introduced into the inner housing 222. The inner inlet 225 may be formed to pass through the inner housing 222. Figure 5 As shown, the inner inlet 225 can be implemented as a through hole passing through the inner housing 222. Figure 6 As shown, the inner inlet 225 can also be implemented as multiple through holes passing through the inner housing 222. In this case, the inner inlet 225 may include multiple inlet windows 225a formed to pass through different portions of the inner housing 222. The inlet windows 225a may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a matrix form in a first axial direction (X-axis direction) and a second axial direction (Y-axis direction). The second axial direction (Y-axis direction) and the first axial direction (X-axis direction) are axial directions perpendicular to each other.

[0047] An internal outlet 226 is formed in the inner housing 222. The internal outlet 226 may be formed in at least one side surface of the inner housing 222. The internal outlet 226 allows a first gas to exit from the interior portion of the inner housing 222. The internal outlet 226 may be formed to pass through the inner housing 222. Figure 5 As shown, the inner outlet 226 can be implemented as a through hole passing through the inner housing 222. Figure 6 As shown, the inner outlet 226 can also be implemented as multiple through holes passing through the inner housing 222. In this case, the inner outlet 226 may include multiple outlet windows 226a formed to pass through different portions of the inner housing 222. The outlet windows 226a can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a matrix form in the first axial direction (X-axis direction) and the second axial direction (Y-axis direction). The inner outlet 226 and the inner inlet 225 can be arranged at positions spaced apart from each other along the first axial direction (X-axis direction).

[0048] When the first gas is a humid gas, it can be supplied through intermediate inlet 212 to the space between the inner surface of the intermediate housing 21 and the outer surface of the core 22, and through inner inlet 225 into the core 22, where it contacts the outer surface of the hollow fiber membrane 221. During this process, moisture contained in the first gas permeates the hollow fiber membrane 221 to humidify the second gas flowing along the hollow portion of the membrane 221. The humidified second gas can be discharged from the hollow fiber membrane 221 through the first cover 3 or the second cover 4 and supplied to the fuel cell stack. The first gas, now humidified with the second gas, can be discharged through inner outlet 226 to the space between the outer surface of the core 22 and the inner surface of the intermediate housing 21, and through intermediate outlet 213 to the outside of the intermediate housing 21. In this case, the first gas can be exhaust gas discharged from the fuel cell stack.

[0049] When the first gas is a dry gas, it can be supplied through intermediate inlet 212 to the space between the inner surface of the intermediate shell 21 and the outer surface of the core 22, and through inner inlet 225 into the core 22, where it contacts the outer surface of the hollow fiber membrane 221. During this process, moisture from the second gas flowing along the hollow portion of the hollow fiber membrane 221 can permeate the membrane to humidify the first gas introduced into the core 22. The humidified first gas can be discharged through inner outlet 226 to the space between the outer surface of the core 22 and the inner surface of the intermediate shell 21, and through intermediate outlet 213 to the outside of the intermediate shell 21, and supplied to the fuel cell stack. The second gas, having been humidified, can be discharged from the hollow fiber membrane 221 and through the first cover 3 or the second cover 4 to the outside. In this case, the second gas can be exhaust gas from the fuel cell stack.

[0050] The humidification module 2 may include a first encapsulation portion 23.

[0051] The first encapsulation portion 23 is hermetically connected to one end of the intermediate housing 21 via a mechanical assembly. Therefore, the first encapsulation portion 23 allows the first cover portion 3 to be in fluid communication only with the hollow fiber membrane 221. Thus, the first encapsulation portion 23 prevents direct mixing of the first gas and the second gas. The first encapsulation portion 23 can be disposed between the intermediate housing 21 and the core 22 to seal between them. In this case, the core 22 can be inserted into a first insertion hole 231 formed in the first encapsulation portion 23. The first encapsulation portion 23 can contact each of the inner surface of the intermediate housing 21, the outer surface of the core 22, and the first fixing layer 223. Through this contact, the first encapsulation portion 23 can be hermetically connected to one end of the intermediate housing 21. In this case, the first encapsulation portion 23 can contact each of a portion of the inner surface of the intermediate housing 21, a portion of the outer surface of the core 22, and a portion of the first fixing layer 223.

[0052] The humidification module 2 may include a second encapsulation portion 24.

[0053] The second encapsulation portion 24 is hermetically connected to the other end of the intermediate housing 21 via a mechanical assembly. Therefore, the second encapsulation portion 24 allows the second cover portion 4 to be in fluid communication only with the hollow fiber membrane 221. Thus, the second encapsulation portion 24 prevents direct mixing of the first gas and the second gas. The second encapsulation portion 24 can be disposed between the intermediate housing 21 and the core 22 to seal between them. In this case, the core 22 can be inserted into the second insertion hole 241 formed in the second encapsulation portion 24. The second encapsulation portion 24 can contact each of the inner surface of the intermediate housing 21, the outer surface of the core 22, and the second fixing layer 224. Through this contact, the second encapsulation portion 24 can be hermetically connected to the other end of the intermediate housing 21. In this case, the second encapsulation portion 24 can also contact a portion of the inner surface of the intermediate housing 21, a portion of the outer surface of the core 22, and a portion of the second fixing layer 224.

[0054] Reference Figures 2 to 4 The first cover 3 is connected to one end of the humidification module 2. The space between the first cover 3 and the core 22 can be sealed by the first encapsulation portion 23 with the space between the core 22 and the intermediate housing 21. The first cover 3 may include a first port 31. The first port 31 allows the flow of a second gas. The first port 31 can communicate with the hollow portion of the hollow fiber membrane 221. Therefore, during the flow of the second gas between the first cover 3 and the hollow fiber membrane 221, the second gas can be introduced or discharged through the first port 31.

[0055] Reference Figures 2 to 4The second cover 4 is connected to the other end of the humidification module 2. The second cover 4 can be positioned at a distance from the first cover 3 along the first axial direction (X-axis direction). The space between the second cover 4 and the core 22 can be sealed by the second encapsulation portion 24 with the space between the core 22 and the intermediate housing 21. The second cover 4 may include a second port 41. The second port 41 allows the flow of a second gas. The second port 41 can communicate with the hollow portion of the hollow fiber membrane 221. Therefore, during the flow of the second gas between the second cover 4 and the hollow fiber membrane 221, the second gas can be introduced or discharged through the second port 41. When the second gas is introduced through the second port 41, the second gas can be discharged through the first port 31. In this case, the second gas can exchange moisture with the first gas while sequentially passing through the second cover 4, the hollow portion of the hollow fiber membrane 221, and the first cover 3. When the second gas is discharged through the second port 41, the second gas can be introduced through the first port 31. In this configuration, the second gas can exchange moisture with the first gas while passing through the first cover 3, the hollow portion of the hollow fiber membrane 221, and the second cover 4. Although not shown in the figures, resin layers can be formed at both ends of the intermediate housing 21 in place of encapsulation portions 5 and 6. The resin layers can be formed by curing a liquid polymer (e.g., liquid polyurethane resin) via a casting process.

[0056] In this situation, when the pressure of the first gas introduced into the core 22 is applied to the boundary between the hollow fiber membrane 221 and the first fixing layer 223, pipe breaks, damage, ruptures, etc., may occur in the portion of the hollow fiber membrane 221 located at the boundary between the hollow fiber membrane 221 and the first fixing layer 223. During the formation of the first fixing layer 223, when a portion of the liquid resin is cured after flowing along the surface of the hollow fiber membrane 221 across the boundary, movement of the hollow fiber membrane 221 occurs at the corresponding portion, and therefore pipe breaks, damage, ruptures, etc., may occur more frequently. To prevent this, in the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the invention, the core 22 may include a plurality of first coating portions 227 (see... Figure 7 ).

[0057] refer to Figures 7 to 9Each of the first coating portions 227 can be bonded to one side 2211 of one of the hollow fiber membranes 221. One side 2211 of the hollow fiber membrane 221 can be a side portion of one of the two sides of the hollow fiber membrane 221 in the first axial direction (X-axis direction). In this case, the end of one side 2211 of each of the hollow fiber membranes 221 can correspond to one end 221a of each of the hollow fiber membranes 221. One side 2211 of each of the hollow fiber membranes 221 can be a portion from one end 221a of each of the hollow fiber membranes 221 to a starting point of one of the first coating portions 227. The starting point of the first coating portion 227 can be the location of the end of the first coating portion 227 facing the second fixing layer 224. The starting point of the first coating portion 227 and the length of one side 2211 of the hollow fiber membrane 221 can be determined by the worker considering design specifications (such as the length of the hollow fiber membrane 221 in the first axial direction (X-axis direction)).

[0058] Each of the first coating portions 227 can be bonded to the first fixing layer 223 to protrude from the first fixing layer 223 toward the second fixing layer 224. Each of the first coating portions 227 can be formed to have a lower hardness than the first fixing layer 223. Therefore, the first fixing layer 223 can be implemented to be relatively hard relative to each of the first coating portions 227, and each of the first coating portions 227 can be implemented to be relatively soft relative to the first fixing layer 223. Therefore, each of the first coating portions 227 is implemented to utilize the properties of a soft material with low hardness to disperse the external forces acting according to the movement of the hollow fiber membrane 221, even when the hollow fiber membrane 221 moves due to the pressure of the first gas introduced into the core 22.

[0059] Therefore, the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the present invention can achieve the following effects.

[0060] First, in the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the present invention, the first coating portion 227 can be used to reduce the risk of pipe disconnection, damage, rupture, etc., of the hollow fiber membrane 221. Therefore, the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the present invention can maintain humidification performance using the hollow fiber membrane 221, and helps to reduce the operating cost of the fuel cell system by reducing maintenance costs for the hollow fiber membrane 221, etc. Furthermore, in the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the present invention, since the maintenance cycle for the hollow fiber membrane 221, etc., can be extended, the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the present invention can help increase the operating rate of the fuel cell system.

[0061] Secondly, in the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the present invention, the first coating portion 227 can be implemented by bonding it separately to the hollow fiber membrane 221. That is, unlike the first fixed layer 223, the first coating portion 227 is not implemented in the form of a layer. Therefore, compared with a comparative example in which a soft layer is implemented by curing a soft material via a casting process, the consumption of soft material used to implement the first coating portion 227 can be reduced in the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the present invention. Therefore, compared with a comparative example in which a soft layer is implemented by curing a soft material via a casting process, the manufacturing cost can be reduced in the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the present invention, thereby further improving product competitiveness.

[0062] For example, each of the first coating portions 227 may be formed to have a Shore A hardness of 30 or less. In this case, the first fixing layer 223 may be formed to have a Shore D hardness of 40 or greater. Therefore, the first fixing layer 223 may be implemented to be relatively hard relative to each of the first coating portions 227, and each of the first coating portions 227 may be implemented to be relatively soft relative to the first fixing layer 223. The first fixing layer 223 may be formed using a material selected from the group consisting of rigid polyurethane resin, rigid epoxy resin, rigid ultraviolet (UV) resin, rigid silicone resin, rigid sealant, and combinations thereof. Each of the first coating portions 227 may be formed using a material selected from the group consisting of soft polyurethane resin, soft epoxy resin, soft UV resin, soft silicone resin, soft sealant, and combinations thereof.

[0063] Each of the first coating portions 227 can be bonded to the hollow fiber membrane 221 to surround the outer surface of the hollow fiber membrane 221. Each of the first coating portions 227 can be bonded to the hollow fiber membrane 221 by a coating process. For example, each of the first coating portions 227 can be bonded to the hollow fiber membrane 221 by a coating process using an adhesive impregnation method, a surface coating method, an adhesive tape method, etc. With the first coating portions 227 bonded to the hollow fiber membrane 221, the first fixing layer 223 can be formed by curing a liquid resin (e.g., liquid polyurethane resin) via a casting process to fix the first coating portions 227 and the hollow fiber membrane 221.

[0064] like Figure 8As shown, each of the first coating portions 227 can be bonded to the hollow fiber membrane 221 to surround the entirety of one side 2211 of the hollow fiber membrane 221. In this case, each of the hollow fiber membranes 221 can protrude from the first coating portion 227 only toward the second fixing layer 224. Therefore, one side 2211 of the hollow fiber membrane 221 can be disposed in the first coating portion 227, and the first coating portion 227 can be disposed in the first fixing layer 223. That is, the hollow fiber membrane 221 can be configured not to be in direct contact with the first fixing layer 223.

[0065] The following describes in more detail an embodiment in which each of the first coating portions 227 surrounds one side 2211 of the hollow fiber membrane 221.

[0066] First, one end 227a of the first coating portion 227, one end 223a of the first fixing layer 223, and one end 221a of the hollow fiber membrane 221 can all be configured to be collinear in the first axial direction (X-axis direction). Based on Figure 8 Each of the following can be a left end: an end 227a of the first coating portion 227, an end 223a of the first fixing layer 223, and an end 221a of the hollow fiber membrane 221.

[0067] Next, the other end 227b of the first coating portion 227 can be configured to be spaced apart from the other end 223b of the first fixing layer 223 in the first axial direction (X-axis direction) towards the second fixing layer 224. Based on Figure 8 Each of the other end 227b of the first coating portion 227 and the other end 223b of the first fixing layer 223 can be the right end.

[0068] like Figure 9 As shown, each of the first coating portions 227 can be bonded to the hollow fiber membrane 221 to surround a portion of one side 2211 of the hollow fiber membrane 221. In this case, each of the hollow fiber membranes 221 can protrude from both sides of the first coating portion 227. Therefore, a portion of one side 2211 of the hollow fiber membrane 221 can be disposed in the first coating portion 227, and the remaining portion can be disposed in the first fixing layer 223. That is, a portion of the hollow fiber membrane 221 can be disposed in direct contact with the first fixing layer 223. In the embodiment where each of the first coating portions 227 surrounds a portion of one side 2211 of the hollow fiber membrane 221, the manufacturing cost can be further reduced compared to the embodiment where each of the first coating portions 227 surrounds an entire one side 2211 of the hollow fiber membrane 221, since the consumption of soft material used to implement the first coating portion 227 can be further reduced.

[0069] The embodiments of each of the first coating portions 227 surrounding a portion of one side 2211 of the hollow fiber membrane 221 will now be described in more detail.

[0070] First, one end 223a of the first fixing layer 223 and one end 221a of the hollow fiber membrane 221 can be arranged collinearly in the first axial direction (X-axis direction), and one end 227a of the first coating portion 227 can be arranged spaced apart from one end 221a of the hollow fiber membrane 221 towards the second fixing layer 224. Therefore, the portion of the hollow fiber membrane 221 disposed between one end 223a of the first fixing layer 223 and one end 227a of the first coating portion 227 can be in direct contact with the first fixing layer 223.

[0071] Next, the other end 227b of the first coating portion 227 may be configured to be spaced apart from the other end 223b of the first fixing layer 223 in the first axial direction (X-axis direction) toward the second fixing layer 224.

[0072] refer to Figures 7 to 9 Each of the first coating portions 227 can be bonded to the hollow fiber membrane 221 to protrude outward from the outer surface of the hollow fiber membrane 221. Therefore, one side 2211 of the hollow fiber membrane 221 can be fixed by the first fixing layer 223 at a position spaced apart from each other by the first coating portions 227. Thus, in the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the invention, since one side 2211 of the hollow fiber membrane 221 can be spaced apart from each other by the first coating portions 227, a flow path allowing the first gas to flow can be formed in one side 2211 of the hollow fiber membrane 221. Therefore, in the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the invention, since the flowability and diffusivity of the first gas can be improved on one side of the hollow fiber membrane 221, the humidification efficiency can be improved by increasing the contact between the hollow fiber membrane 221 and the first gas. In this case, one side 2211 of the hollow fiber membrane 221 can be configured to be spaced apart from each other by a constant distance by the first coating portions 227. Therefore, in the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the present invention, since the first gas can be uniformly delivered from one side 2211 of the hollow fiber membrane 221 to the hollow fiber membrane 221, the humidification efficiency can be further improved.

[0073] The first coating portions 227 can be fixed at spaced-apart positions by the first fixing layer 223. Therefore, the distance between the spaces on one side 2211 of the hollow fiber membrane 221 can be increased by the same amount as the distance between the spaces on the first coating portions 227. Thus, in the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the invention, since the flowability and diffusivity of the first gas can be further increased at one side 2211 of the hollow fiber membrane 221, the humidification performance can be further improved by further increasing the contact between the hollow fiber membrane 221 and the first gas.

[0074] Reference Figures 2 to 9 In the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the present invention, the core 22 may include a plurality of second coating portions 228.

[0075] Each of the second coating portions 228 can be bonded to the other side 2212 of one of the hollow fiber membranes 221. The other side 2212 of the hollow fiber membrane 221 can be any side portion of the hollow fiber membrane 221 in the first axial direction (X-axis direction). The other side 2212 and one side 2211 of the hollow fiber membrane 221 can be disposed on opposite sides. The end of the other side 2212 of each of the hollow fiber membranes 221 can correspond to the other end 221b of each of the hollow fiber membranes 221. The other side 2212 of each of the hollow fiber membranes 221 can be the portion from the other end 221b of each of the hollow fiber membranes 221 to the point where the second coating portion 228 begins. The point where the second coating portion 228 begins can be the position of the end of the second coating portion 228 facing the first fixing layer 223. The starting point of the second coating portion 228 and the length of the other side 2212 of the hollow fiber membrane 221 can be determined by the worker by taking into account design specifications such as the length of the hollow fiber membrane 221 in the first axial direction (X-axis direction).

[0076] Each of the second coating portions 228 may be bonded to the second fixing layer 224 to protrude from the second fixing layer 224 toward the first fixing layer 223. Each of the second coating portions 228 may be formed to have a lower hardness than the second fixing layer 224. Therefore, the second fixing layer 224 may be implemented to be relatively harder relative to the second coating portions 228, and each of the second coating portions 228 may be implemented to be relatively soft relative to the second fixing layer 224.

[0077] Therefore, each of the second coating portions 228 is implemented such that, even when the hollow fiber membrane 221 moves due to the pressure of the first gas introduced into the core 22, the properties of a soft material with low hardness are used to disperse the external forces acting according to the movement of the hollow fiber membrane 221. Therefore, in the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the invention, the second coating portions 228 can be used to reduce the risk of pipe disconnection, damage, rupture, etc., of the hollow fiber membrane 221. The second coating portions 228 can be implemented by bonding to the other side 2212 of the hollow fiber membrane 221. Therefore, compared with a comparative example where a soft layer is achieved by curing a soft material via a casting process, the amount of soft material used to implement the second coating portions 228 can be reduced in the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the invention.

[0078] For example, each of the second coating portions 228 may be formed to have a Shore A hardness of 30 or less. In this case, the second fixing layer 224 may be formed to have a Shore D hardness of 40 or greater. Therefore, the second fixing layer 224 may be implemented to be relatively hard relative to each of the second coating portions 228, and each of the second coating portions 228 may be implemented to be relatively soft relative to the second fixing layer 224. The second fixing layer 224 may be formed using a material selected from the group consisting of rigid polyurethane resins, rigid epoxy resins, rigid ultraviolet (UV) resins, rigid silicone resins, rigid sealants, and combinations thereof. Each of the second coating portions 228 may be formed using a material selected from the group consisting of soft polyurethane resins, soft epoxy resins, soft UV resins, soft silicone resins, soft sealants, and combinations thereof.

[0079] Each of the second coating portions 228 can be bonded to the hollow fiber membrane 221 to surround the outer surface of the hollow fiber membrane 221. Each of the second coating portions 228 can be bonded to the hollow fiber membrane 221 by a coating process. For example, each of the second coating portions 228 can be bonded to the hollow fiber membrane 221 by a coating process using an adhesive impregnation method, a surface coating method, an adhesive tape method, etc. With the second coating portions 228 bonded to the hollow fiber membrane 221, the second fixing layer 224 can be formed to fix the second coating portions 228 and the hollow fiber membrane 221 by curing a liquid resin (e.g., liquid polyurethane resin) via a casting process.

[0080] like Figure 8As shown, each of the second coating portions 228 can be bonded to the hollow fiber membrane 221 to surround the entire other side 2212 of the hollow fiber membrane 221. In this case, each of the hollow fiber membranes 221 can protrude from the second coating portion 228 only toward the first fixing layer 223. Therefore, the other side 2212 of the hollow fiber membrane 221 can be disposed in the second coating portion 228, and the second coating portion 228 can be disposed in the second fixing layer 224. That is, the hollow fiber membrane 221 can be configured not to be in direct contact with the second fixing layer 224.

[0081] The following describes in more detail an embodiment in which each of the second coating portions 228 surrounds the other side 2212 of the hollow fiber membrane 221.

[0082] First, one end 228a of the second coating portion 228, one end 224a of the second fixing layer 224, and the other end 221b of the hollow fiber membrane 221 can be arranged to be collinear in the first axial direction (X-axis direction). Based on Figure 8 Each of the following can be a right end: one end 228a of the second coating portion 228, one end 224a of the second fixing layer 224, and the other end 221b of the hollow fiber membrane 221.

[0083] Next, the other end 228b of the second coating portion 228 can be configured to be spaced apart from the other end 224b of the first fixing layer 223 and the second fixing layer 224 in the first axial direction (X-axis direction). Based on Figure 8 Each of the other end 228b of the second coating portion 228 and the other end 224b of the second fixing layer 224 can be the left end.

[0084] like Figure 9 As shown, each of the second coating portions 228 can be bonded to the hollow fiber membrane 221 to surround a portion of the other side 2212 of the hollow fiber membrane 221. In this case, each of the hollow fiber membranes 221 can protrude from both sides of the second coating portion 228. Therefore, a portion of the other side 2212 of the hollow fiber membrane 221 can be disposed in the second coating portion 228, and its remaining portion can be disposed in the second fixing layer 224. That is, a portion of the hollow fiber membrane 221 can be disposed in direct contact with the second fixing layer 224. In the embodiment where each of the second coating portions 228 surrounds a portion of the other side 2212 of the hollow fiber membrane 221, the manufacturing cost can be further reduced compared to the embodiment where each of the second coating portions 228 surrounds the entire other side 2212 of the hollow fiber membrane 221.

[0085] The following describes in more detail an embodiment in which each of the second coating portions 228 surrounds a portion of the other side 2212 of the hollow fiber membrane 221.

[0086] First, one end 224a of the second fixing layer 224 and the other end 221b of the hollow fiber membrane 221 can be arranged collinearly in the first axial direction (X-axis direction), and one end 228a of the second coating portion 228 can be arranged spaced apart from the other end 221b of the hollow fiber membrane 221 towards the first fixing layer 223. Therefore, the portion of the hollow fiber membrane 221 disposed between one end 224a of the second fixing layer 224 and one end 228a of the second coating portion 228 can be in direct contact with the second fixing layer 224.

[0087] Next, the other end 228b of the second coating portion 228 may be configured to be spaced apart from the other end 224b of the first fixing layer 223 and the second fixing layer 224 in the first axial direction (X-axis direction).

[0088] refer to Figures 7 to 9 Each of the second coating portions 228 can be bonded to the hollow fiber membrane 221 to protrude outward from the outer surface of the hollow fiber membrane 221. Therefore, the other side 2212 of the hollow fiber membrane 221 can be fixed by the second fixing layer 224 at a position spaced apart from each other by the second coating portions 228. Thus, in the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the invention, since the other side 2212 of the hollow fiber membrane 221 can be spaced apart from each other by the second coating portions 228, a flow path allowing the first gas to flow can be formed in the other side 2212 of the hollow fiber membrane 221. Therefore, in the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the invention, since the flowability and diffusivity of the first gas can be improved on one side of the hollow fiber membrane 221, the humidification efficiency can be improved by increasing the contact between the hollow fiber membrane 221 and the first gas. In this case, the other side 2212 of the hollow fiber membrane 221 can be configured to be spaced apart from each other by a constant distance by the second coating portions 228. Therefore, in the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the present invention, since the first gas can be uniformly delivered to the hollow fiber membrane 221 from the other side 2212 of the hollow fiber membrane 221, the humidification efficiency can be further improved.

[0089] The second coating portion 228 can be fixed at spaced-apart positions by the second fixing layer 224. Therefore, the distance between the two sides 2212 of the hollow fiber membrane 221 can be increased by the same amount as the distance between the two coating portions 228. Therefore, in the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the invention, since the flowability and diffusivity of the first gas can be further increased at the other side 2212 of the hollow fiber membrane 221, the humidification performance can be further improved by further increasing the contact between the hollow fiber membrane 221 and the first gas.

[0090] refer to Figures 2 to 10 In the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to a modified embodiment of the present invention, the hollow fiber membrane 221 can be directly housed in the intermediate shell 21 without the need for the core 22.

[0091] In this configuration, a first fixing layer 223 can replace the first encapsulation portion 23 and be disposed at one end of the intermediate housing 21. The first fixing layer 223 can fix one side 2211 of the hollow fiber membrane 221 to one end of the intermediate housing 21. A first coating portion 227, bonded to one side 2211 of each of the hollow fiber membranes 221, can be bonded to the first fixing layer 223. Since the first coating portion 227 is implemented substantially the same as the first coating portion of the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the present invention described above, its detailed description will be omitted.

[0092] The second fixing layer 224 can replace the second encapsulation portion 24 and is disposed on the other end of the intermediate housing 21. The second fixing layer 224 can fix the other side 2212 of the hollow fiber membrane 221 to the other end of the intermediate housing 21. The second coating portion 228, which is connected to the other side 2212 of each of the hollow fiber membranes 221, can be connected to the second fixing layer 224. Since the second coating portion 228 is implemented to be substantially the same as the second coating portion of the fuel cell humidifier 1 according to the present invention described above, its detailed description will be omitted.

[0093] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and drawings, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various substitutions, modifications and alterations are possible without departing from the technical spirit of the embodiments.

[0094] [Figure Labels]

[0095] 1: Fuel cell humidifier

[0096] 2: Humidification module 21: Intermediate housing

[0097] 210: Intermediate main body 211: Receiving hole

[0098] 212: Middle entrance 213: Middle exit

[0099] 22: Core; 221: Hollow fiber membrane

[0100] 221a: One end of the hollow fiber membrane; 221b: The other end of the hollow fiber membrane.

[0101] 2211: One side of the hollow fiber membrane 2212: The other side of the hollow fiber membrane

[0102] 222: Inner shell; 223: First fixing layer

[0103] 223a: One end of the first fixing layer; 223b: The other end of the first fixing layer.

[0104] 224: Second fixing layer; 224a: One end of the second fixing layer.

[0105] 224b: The other end of the second fixed layer; 225: Internal entrance.

[0106] 225a: Entrance window; 226: Internal exit.

[0107] 226a: Exit window; 227: First coating section

[0108] 227a: One end of the first coating portion; 227b: The other end of the first coating portion.

[0109] 228: Second coating portion; 228a: One end of the second coating portion.

[0110] 228b: The other end of the second coating portion; 23: The first encapsulation portion.

[0111] 231: First insertion hole; 24: Second encapsulation portion

[0112] 241: Second insertion hole; 3: First cover.

[0113] 31: First port; 4: Second cover

[0114] 41: Second Port

Claims

1. A core for a fuel cell humidifier, the core being disposed in the fuel cell humidifier configured to humidify dry gas supplied to a fuel cell stack using wet gas, the core comprising: an inner casing having openings at both ends thereof; a plurality of hollow fiber membranes accommodated in the inner casing; a first fixing layer fixing one side of the hollow fiber membranes; a second fixing layer fixing the other side of the hollow fiber membranes; and a plurality of first coating portions bonded to the one side of the hollow fiber membranes and to the first fixing layer to protrude from the first fixing layer toward the second fixing layer, wherein each of the first coating portions is formed to have a lower hardness than the first fixing layer. 2.The core according to claim 1, comprising a plurality of second coating portions bonded to the other side of the hollow fiber membranes and to the second fixing layer to protrude from the second fixing layer toward the first fixing layer, each of the second coating portions being formed to have a lower hardness than the second fixing layer. wherein 3.The core according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each of the first coating portions is bonded to the hollow fiber membranes to surround a part of one side of the hollow fiber membranes; and each of the hollow fiber membranes protrudes from both sides of the first coating portions. 4.The core according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each of the first coating portions is bonded to each of the hollow fiber membranes to surround an entirety of one side of the hollow fiber membranes; and each of the hollow fiber membranes protrudes from the first coating portions only toward the second fixing layer. 5.The core according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each of the first coating portions is bonded to the hollow fiber membranes to protrude outward from an outer surface of the hollow fiber membranes; and the one side of the hollow fiber membranes is fixed at positions spaced apart from each other by the first coating portions by the first fixing layer. the first coating portions are fixed at positions spaced apart from each other by the first fixing layer. 7.A fuel cell humidifier comprising: a humidification module that humidifies dry gas supplied to a fuel cell stack using wet gas; a first cover coupled to one end of the humidification module; and 6. The core of claim 5, wherein, a second cover coupled to the other end of the humidification module, wherein the humidification module includes an intermediate casing open at both ends and at least one core accommodated in the intermediate casing, and the core is the core according to any one of claims 1 to 6. ​ ​ ​ The core includes an inner case having openings at both ends thereof, a plurality of hollow fiber membranes accommodated in the inner case, a first fixing layer fixing one side of the hollow fiber membranes, a second fixing layer fixing the other side of the hollow fiber membranes, and a plurality of first coating portions coupled to the one side of the hollow fiber membranes and to the first fixing layer to protrude from the first fixing layer toward the second fixing layer, and Each of the first coating portions is formed to have a lower hardness than the first fixing layer.

8. A fuel cell humidifier comprising: a humidification module that humidifies a dry gas, which is supplied to be supplied to a fuel cell stack, using a wet gas; a first cover coupled to one end of the humidification module; and a second cover coupled to the other end of the humidification module, wherein the humidification module includes: an intermediate case that is open at both ends thereof, a plurality of hollow fiber membranes accommodated in the intermediate case, a first fixing layer fixing one side of the hollow fiber membranes, a second fixing layer fixing the other side of the hollow fiber membranes, and a plurality of first coating portions coupled to the one side of the hollow fiber membranes and to the first fixing layer to protrude from the first fixing layer toward the second fixing layer, and Each of the first coating portions is formed to have a lower hardness than the first fixing layer.

9. The fuel cell humidifier according to claim 7 or 8, comprising a plurality of second coating portions coupled to the other side of the hollow fiber membranes and to the second fixing layer to protrude from the second fixing layer toward the first fixing layer, Each of the second coating portions is formed to have a lower hardness than the second fixing layer. wherein 10. The fuel cell humidifier according to claim 7 or 8, wherein Each of the first coating portions is coupled to the hollow fiber membranes to surround a portion of one side of the hollow fiber membranes; and Each of the hollow fiber membranes protrudes from both sides of the first coating portions.

11. The fuel cell humidifier according to claim 7 or 8, wherein Each of the first coating portions is coupled to the hollow fiber membranes to surround an entirety of one side of the hollow fiber membranes; and Each of the hollow fiber membranes protrudes from the first coating portions only toward the second fixing layer.

12. The fuel cell humidifier according to claim 7 or 8, wherein Each of the first coating portions is coupled to the hollow fiber membranes to protrude outward from an outer surface of the hollow fiber membranes; and The one side of the hollow fiber membranes is fixed at positions spaced apart from each other by the first coating portions by the first fixing layer. ​ ​ ​ 13. The fuel cell humidifier of claim 12, wherein, The first coating portions are fixed at positions spaced apart from each other by the first fixing layer. The first coating portions are fixed at positions spaced apart from each other by the first fixing layer. The first coating portions are fixed at positions spaced apart from each other by

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